Explore, Create, Critique: Building a Future in Art History

The Art History Concentration provides a rich and engaging exploration of the visual arts, offering students a thorough understanding of art's evolution from its earliest forms to contemporary expressions. Beginning with foundational courses, including ART 0106 and ART 0107, students will examine the history of art from the Prehistoric period through the Middle Ages, and from the Renaissance to the present day, providing essential context for understanding artistic movements and their cultural significance. The program emphasizes a deeper exploration of specialized topics through two 300-level Art History courses, allowing students to engage critically with various periods, styles, and methodologies in art history. In addition to theoretical coursework, the minor encourages students to expand their artistic knowledge through studio electives, such as printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture, bridging the gap between historical study and hands-on practice. This combination of academic rigor and creative exploration fosters a well-rounded understanding of both the history and the production of art, preparing students for a wide range of careers in the arts and beyond.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses - 18 credits
  • Explore global art traditions through dynamic studio and history courses
  • Build a strong foundation for careers in museums, art criticism, and advanced studies
  • Work closely with expert professors for personalized guidance
  • Internship opportunities both on and off campus

Create, Explore, and Lead in the World of Art History

Begin your journey of creativity, exploration, and critical thinking.

Master Art History, Studio Practice, and Career Preparation

  • Student in Arno Maris Gallery on campus looking at artwork.

    Comprehensive Art History Education

    This program offers an extensive exploration of both Western and non-Western art, providing a solid foundation in key historical periods and movements. Students develop a deep understanding of global artistic traditions, preparing them for roles in art history, museum work, and beyond.

  • Dower 276 Drawing Studio showcasing students in a circle sketch drawing.

    Integrated Studio and Criticism Practice

    Alongside theoretical coursework, students engage in hands-on studio classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, and printmaking. This integration of creative practice with art history fosters a unique skill set, allowing students to analyze art from both a practical and scholarly perspective.

  • Poet Lisbeth White reads works from her latest collection in the Arno Maris Gallery in the Ely Campus Center.

    Focused Career and Graduate Preparation

    The Art History Concentration is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for graduate study or careers in art criticism, curatorial work, and museum education. With personalized advising and tailored course sequencing, students are well-equipped for success in their chosen art-related careers.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Developed capacity for critical, creative, investigative, and conceptual thinking
  • Ability to identify and solve visual and conceptual problems
  • Ability to present and communicate effectively, creatively, and critically across a range of form and media
  • Generate a personal focus and contribute an independent voice to the world
  • Be ready to work as professionals in art education; art history; design; fine arts; illustration and animation
  • Refer to the fullest range of historical and contemporary art and design sources from across cultures and time
  • Apply a wide range of research methods and technologies in gathering and analyzing information
  • Engage effectively in individual and/or collaborative approaches to work

What Can You Do With an Art History Concentration?

An art history concentration opens up diverse career paths in arts, culture, education, and beyond. Here are some possibilities:

  • Art Critic
  • Collections Manager
  • Conservator
  • Cultural Heritage Specialist
  • Curator
  • Gallery Director
  • Museum Educator
Three students viewing a painting in the Arno Maris Gallery.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

For Art majors interested in a career in Art Criticism, Museum work or preparation for graduate study in Art History, the Art History concentration (18 additional credits) offers broad-based training in Western and Non-Western Art.

Requirements for Art Majors

One of the following:

Note:

** Students completing Art Teacher Licensure Programs must take ART 0108 Introduction to Computer Graphics as their art elective.

Art majors are required to take ART 0106 and ART 0107, to satisfy the Appreciation of the Arts requirement of the common core.

Art majors must complete a minimum of 27 credits of course work within the Art Department at Westfield State. Students are advised to consult their advisors for information on course sequencing and general core requirements.

Art majors intending to pursue graduate work beyond their major are advised to take additionally recommended studio courses of their choice. It is also advisable to include more than the minimum requirements in Art History.

Art History Concentration for Art Majors

 

  • Art Studio Elective Credits: 3
  • ART 0345 - Criticism
  • 200-Level Art Class: 3 300-Level Art History Course Work: 9
Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features With Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • Study abroad

    in 35+ countries

  • 87%

    of students receive financial aid

Passionate Creators. Creative Educators.

We are proud of the diverse group of professors who make up our Art Department. Our professors hold graduate degrees and are professional practitioners in their fields of study. You’ll learn from their unique perspectives as you develop your own point of view. The one-to-one support you’ll get from our faculty will help you increase your understanding of art, polish your technical skills and help you grow as a person.

A professor and student review the student’s sketches while seated in an art classroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

Is a portfolio required?

Yes, if you have requested admission to the art major on your application form, applicants must successfully pass a portfolio review by the Art Department's faculty.

Learn more

Are there scholarships available to art majors?

Several scholarships are available. Learn more on our available scholarships page.

How can I find the Art Department on social media?

You can follow us on several social media platforms below:

Portfolio Review:

If you've requested admission to the Art Major on your application form, applicants must successfully pass a portfolio review by the Art Department’s faculty.

Request Information

We’re here to answer your questions and deliver the support you need along your academic journey. Please provide your contact information and area of interest, and we’ll be in touch shortly.

Name

Art Degree (B.A.), Art History Concentration