Students of art history at the University of Dallas seek to understand contemporary art in relation to the work of the past. Art history majors at the University of Dallas have the advantage of the Rome Program, where they can experience classical and Renaissance art firsthand, and close contact with practicing artists in the faculty and graduate program on campus.

Art history draws on direct study of artworks experienced in the studio, gallery, museum and the Rome Program to enhance the student’s understanding of the history of art. Art history majors must pass a comprehensive exam, organize a faculty committee, participate in senior reviews and complete an oral examination.

Degree Requirements

The art history area of the art major also includes the art core. Direct study of artworks experienced in the studio, gallery, museum and University of Dallas Rome Program enhances the student's understanding of the history of art.

The art history area of the art major requires 25 credits in art history, 19 of which are advanced hours: a one-credit senior seminar; two credits in Gallery Practicum; ten credits in studio (drawing and design); and six credits in advanced art electives. Advanced art history courses (including a methodologies/aesthetic course) typically begin in the junior year and culminate with the senior capstone project, a written thesis and oral presentation on some aspect of modern or contemporary art. The student must organize a faculty committee and participate in senior reviews and an oral examination, while also passing an art history comprehensive test. 

Printmaking professor Laura Post (left), MFA, in one of the active studios of the Haggerty Art Village.

Art History Course Sequence Following the Art Core