The program in art history is concerned with the study of architecture and the visual arts in their historical contexts. As such, courses in the program are first and foremost concerned with the social, cultural, and intellectual contexts in which art and architecture were conceived, executed and lived. We use art historical inquiry as a method of expanding the humanistic inquiry. Students majoring in art history become familiar with Western and non-Western art and architecture from ancient times to the present. The faculty span broad spatial and temporal spectrums. We are able to offer courses in the art, architecture and urban design of ancient western Asia, Medieval and Renaissance Europe, colonial Americas, 19th century Europe and America, and the Modern and Contemporary. We are fortunate to have faculty from other departments on campus contribute their expertise in such areas as early China, the Aegean bronze age and Russia.

Students are encouraged to pursue study abroad. The department also has a network of internships that are available in museums and galleries in the local San Antonio community. Please contact the departmental chair, Dr. Mark Garrison, about both of these options.