Through the study of art history students learn the importance of the visual arts in their own lives as well as in past and present cultures.
Art History courses are particularly extensive for a college the size of Oswego. Students take a two-semester Survey of Art and may select upper division courses such as Twentieth-Century, Chinese, Japanese, Islamic, Native American, or Museum Studies.
Additional course offerings include Western Art such as Italian Renaissance, American Art, and 20th century. Courses in non-western art are offered most semesters, often inspiring students to study abroad in countries such as Japan, China, and India.
Because of art history’s interdisciplinary nature, students encounter serious studies in areas such as history, literature, philosophy, religion, science and technology. A strength of the program is its intellectual issues and critical thinking courses that promote a deeper understanding of the material such as Modern Art and Mass Culture, Gender in the Visual Arts, and American Identity and Culture.
Students may gain practical, hands-on experience at the Tyler Art Gallery as a gallery attendant or join the Student Art Exhibition Committee (SAEC) to bring culturally relevant, intellectually engaging, meaningful arts exhibitions to the on-campus and greater Oswego communities.
The Art BA - Art History track allows you to specialize in art history and pursue a second major or minor that complements your career goals. Related minors include art, arts management, or museum studies.
The recently renovated Tyler Art Gallery allows students the opportunity to exhibit their work, and in some cases gain experience curating and installing their own show. The gallery on campus is just one place students may showcase their work, Oswego keeps a very active schedule for students to present at Oswego State Downtown and SUNY Oswego in Syracuse.
Critical awareness is developed through practicing formal analysis and studying theoretical writings, while assignments are designed to improve research and writing skills.
The Art History track also prepares students for graduate school in art history, art conservation, and digital humanities.
Take classes and participate in internships while immersing yourself in all that region has to offer.
Travel with Oswego faculty to explore writing and storytelling across cultures. Courses abroad combine creative practice with immersive global experiences, expanding your perspective as both a writer and a reader.