Northern Arizona University

The objective of the Art History Program at NAU is to provide students with a systematic examination of world art and architecture. As an ARH major, you will be introduced not only to the major monuments and artistic traditions of Western Europe and North America but also to those of Asian and Indigenous Cultures. In addition, you will be introduced to the academic study of Art History and the variety of methodological approaches currently in use within the discipline.

Our program emphasizes formal analysis and the location of works of art within diverse historical, political, religious and philosophical contexts. Our courses also stress critical interdisciplinary thinking, comparative analysis, visual acuity, and effective oral and written expression. In addition to providing the basis for a sound Liberal Arts Education, the ARH major will prepare you for graduate work or professional studies in numerous arts-related fields, including Art History, Criticism, Museology, Art Restoration and Conservation, Art Librarianship, and Arts Management. The research skills acquired in the study of the history of art have also successfully translated into careers in such diverse fields as law, financial analysis, psychology and archaeology.