Why Study Art History?
Studying Art History at Trinity means learning with expert faculty, engaging visual culture across time and place, and using San Antonio as an extension of the classroom.
Learn With Recognized Experts
Art History faculty are internationally recognized specialists whose expertise spans Mesopotamia, medieval and Renaissance art, 19th- and 20th-century painting and photography, Latin American art, and architectural history.
Study Art Across Centuries and Continents
The curriculum introduces students to art and architecture in multiple media, cultures, and contexts, with courses ranging from ancient Egypt and medieval Europe to modernism and the urban history of Mexico City.
Experience Art Beyond the Classroom
Art History courses make full use of San Antonio’s rich cultural resources. Students routinely study and work in local museums and galleries, while lectures, events, and exhibitions expand the conversation beyond the classroom.
It’s a good fit for you if you:
- Are fascinated by art, architecture, history, and the stories objects tell about people and cultures
- Enjoy analyzing images, writing, conducting research, and thinking critically about visual culture
- Are considering careers in museums, galleries, education, preservation, law, publishing, or cultural organizations
The major pairs well with majors or minors in:
- Studio Art
- History
- Anthropology
- Communication
- Modern Languages
- International Studies
- Museum Studies
- Classical Studies
- Architectural Studies
The Art History Major (B.A.)
The Art History major teaches students to interpret art, architecture, and visual culture while considering their historical context. Grounded in close analysis, writing, and research, the program connects classroom study with museums, galleries, and cultural resources in San Antonio.
In-Demand Skills
You’ll gain skills in:
- Visual and formal analysis
- Analytical and interpretive writing
- Historical and cultural research
Interdisciplinary Curriculum:
You’ll complete 40 credit hours in art history, architecture, and visual culture, alongside Trinity’s Pathways Curriculum in the liberal arts and sciences.
The Art History Minor
24 Credit Hours | 1.5 to 2 semesters of coursework
Understanding visual culture in its historical context adds depth to almost any course of study.
The Art History minor introduces students to art before and after 1800 across multiple media, cultures, and contexts. It is designed for students who want to strengthen how they interpret images, objects, architecture, and cultural history while complementing their primary field of study.
Courses in the minor examine art and architecture across centuries and continents, from ancient Egypt and medieval Europe to Renaissance Italy, modernism, and Mexico City. Students build historical perspective, visual analysis, and research skills that can add depth to work in the humanities, social sciences, and other interdisciplinary fields.
Students do not need to major in Art History to pursue this minor.
Program Highlights
Get Your Questions Answered
Students interested in the Art History major or minor are encouraged to:
Meet with an academic adviser to explore introductory courses in art history, architecture, and visual culture, review degree requirements in the course catalog, and contact the Department of Art and Art History with any advising questions.