Undergraduate Programs in Art History & Criticism
Embark on a journey through time and across continents with our Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Criticism. This program is not just an academic pursuit; it's an exploration into the visual language that has shaped human civilization. At Stony Brook, we believe in the power of images, objects, and spaces to tell stories, inspire revolutions, and influence societies. Our curriculum is designed to offer a panoramic view of the world's artistic heritage, providing a profound understanding of how art reflects, contributes to, and often challenges the cultural, social, and political fabric of its time.
A Comprehensive Curriculum: Foundations to Advanced Studies
Our program begins with the essentials(9 credits)—Modern Art lays the groundwork, ensuring every student possesses a solid understanding of the pivotal movements that have defined the modern era. From there, dive into our foundation courses, where you can traverse from the Arts of Africa to the Arts of the Ancient World, and from the intricate narratives of Asian art to the pioneering explorations of the Age of Exploration. These courses are designed to not only broaden your horizons but also to deepen your appreciation for the diversity and complexity of artistic expression across cultures and epochs.
With a requirement of 15 credits in advanced studies, our students delve into specialized areas that span from Greek Art and Architecture to Contemporary Art, and from Museum Studies to Performance Art. This advanced coursework encourages deeper engagement with specific periods, regions, and thematic concerns, fostering an environment where critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative insights flourish.
Beyond the Classroom: Writing, Research, and Real-World Experience
The pinnacle of our program is the Seminar in Art History and Criticism, a capstone experience that synthesizes learning and hones research skills, preparing students for meaningful contributions to the field. Elective courses offer further opportunities to tailor your academic journey, with options ranging from Undergraduate Teaching Practicum to Internships, allowing for practical experience in art institutions and beyond.
Our curriculum emphasizes the importance of articulate expression and critical writing about art, fulfilling the Upper-Division Writing Requirement. This focus ensures our graduates are not only versed in the history and criticism of art but are also skilled communicators, ready to make their mark in the academic world, cultural institutions, or any field that values keen observation and thoughtful analysis.
Your Pathway to a Vibrant Future
Graduates from our program are well-prepared for post-graduate training and diverse career paths. Whether aspiring to academic roles, positions within galleries, museums, or the broader art world, or even fields outside the arts that appreciate a nuanced understanding of visual and cultural literacy, our students are equipped to succeed. They become active contributors, critics, and creators, whose insights and skills illuminate the complexities of our visual and material culture.
Join us at Stony Brook University, where your passion for art history will evolve into a profound understanding of how art shapes and is shaped by the human experience. Here, you're not just studying the past; you're preparing to make an impact on the future of art and culture.