About this Program
The Art History minor offers introductory and advanced level courses in art from pre-history to the present. The visual arts are studied in relation to their cultural values and beliefs as well as to the unique perceptions of individual artists. An Art History minor is a valuable and creative complement to any other program area (open to all majors except Art History B.A.).
Why UMD?
- Our deliberate merging of Art and Design in one department stimulates and provokes students as independent thinkers and creators who explore various media and methods
- Our distinguished faculty continue to create, exhibit, and publish research regularly, in addition to teaching and providing mentorship and career guidance
- UMD Art and Design is accredited by NASAD, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design
- Museum internships are often available through UMD’s Tweed Museum of Art
Acquired Skills
Art History majors and minors learn how to describe, analyze and interpret art and artifacts from prehistory to the present. The program’s focus on critical thinking, research, and written and verbal expression prepares students for work in a variety of cultural institutions, as well as graduate programs in art history and other areas of the humanities.
Career Possibilities
Now more than ever, earning an art degree can lead to a number of exciting career fields. As new technologies develop and influence our society, new jobs are emerging for all types of creative individuals. Art History students pursue careers as diverse as archivist, art dealer, art historian, conservators, curator, gallery owner, museum technician, art educator.
A minor shows potential employers that you put in extra effort and have a spectrum of interest areas. Furthermore, a minor can cultivate new skills and encourage you to think in ways that may seem unconventional in your major field. Unconventional thinking can lead to creative problem solving.
Admissions and Scholarships
Departmental scholarships are primarily awarded to Art & Design majors only; however, any student can submit creative pieces to the Student Exhibition each spring, which does include several small scholarships for outstanding selected artwork/art research.
Student Clubs
Student clubs in the Department of Art & Design vary each year according to interests but typically include an Art Education Club, Student Photography Cooperative, Mud Guild (Ceramics Club), Art History Symposium, Media Arts Club, and Student Design Organization (SDO).
Requirements
The Art History minor is open to all majors except Art History B.A.