Students standing at the chalkboard while the teacher teaches

See Art through New Eyes

See art through the eyes of a historian with IUP's Art History Track. You'll possess the skills to imagine you're in the room with the artist themselves when examining a piece. You'll develop an understanding of the culture, the pressures in the artist's life, the popular techniques of that time, and how these factors impacted the artist's work.

You'll gain a solid foundation in the history of art, from ancient through modern times.

You'll develop critical thinking, research, and writing skills and learn terminology, methodology, and professional approaches to historical inquiry. You'll put this knowledge to work as you conduct art history research through independent investigations.

With this major, you can choose to take a minor in studio art to further explore the many studio disciplines offered, including ceramics, drawing, graphic design, metals, painting, print media, sculpture, and woodworking.]

Imagine Your Future

We prepare you for the world of art that you want to enter. While there are no guarantees, what we do well is establish high but realistic expectations, and then make sure you are well prepared.

With a BA in Art History, you can pursue an MA in Art History.

With a BA in Art History, consider careers in:

  • Museums
  • Galleries
  • Research
  • Libraries

Classes and Requirements

The Art History program provides students with a strong foundation in art and art history, and allows you to focus on your areas of interest through electives to round out your degree.

Full Academic Catalog Listing

The course catalog is the official reference for all our degree and course offerings. Check it out for a full listing of the classes available and requirements for this degree.

  • Loading...

Student Opportunities

As an art major, you will have the opportunity to participate in numerous activities that will further enrich your artistic endeavors.

  • Show your work: Put together an exhibit of your own work in Miller Gallery, run by the Student Art Association.
  • Absorb and be inspired: Enjoy works by faculty and other national and international artists in exhibitions hosted by IUP galleries and museums.
  • Join: New friends are waiting in the Student Art Association, Graphic Design Student Association, Clay Club, IUP Fashion Association, Visual Merchandising Club, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), IUP Chapter, and other art student organizations.
  • Learn how art works: Get an internship.
  • Make professional connections: Get involved with the campus chapter of the National Art Education Association or check out the American Society of Interior Designers.
  • Change perspective: Study abroad on trips for art students. Contact the Artand Design Department Office for information.
  • Teach: Students have the opportunity to teach art classes at the Artists Hand Gallery, in Indiana, Pennsylvania.
  • Make your mark: The annual Chalk on the Walk art show turns campus grounds into a beautiful spectacle.

Facilities

Along with museums and galleries, Sprowls Hall is dedicated to seven studio arts, and the 13,000 sq ft Robertshaw building is dedicated to ceramics and sculpture. Learn more about the art facilities at IUP.

Freshman Entrance Portfolio Requirements

Students who have applied to IUP will receive a letter of invitation from the Art and Design Department for a portfolio review.

The goal is to determine whether your portfolio demonstrates potential for success in professional studies in our art program. Your work will be reviewed on the basis of technical, compositional, and creative skill.

Portfolio Review

Portfolio reviews are an important prerequisite for admission into our degree programs. Students who have applied to IUP will receive a letter of invitation from the Art and Design Department for a portfolio review.

The goal is to determine whether your portfolio demonstrates potential for success in professional studies in our art program. Your work will be reviewed on the basis of technical, compositional, and creative skill.

Prospective students, transfer students, or students who wish to change to an art studio or art education major can submit their portfolio anytime.

The portfolio review process is used to select students for scholarships.

Bringing Talent, Enthusiasm, and Diverse Perspectives

The Art and Design Department at IUP consists of 14 full-time professors. They have earned the highest level of academic degrees for their specialty and bring extensive experience and scholarship to the classroom.

Art History Minor

The art history minor provides students with the necessary skills to critically assess the origins and changing dynamics of the visual arts.

By minoring in art history, art students can add the necessary credits to apply to graduate school in this field.

By its very nature, art history is multidisciplinary and not only develops visual literacy and tools for critical thinking but also introduces students to the sociocultural contexts in which artworks are produced, providing students with the opportunities for understanding cultural diversity and lifelong learning.

Full Academic Catalog Listing

The course catalog is the official reference for all our degree and course offerings. Check it out for a full listing of the classes available and requirements for this degree.

  • Loading...