BA in Art History in Queens United States | Queens College, CUNY

Art history goes beyond merely remembering artists and their creations—it serves as a perspective for examining wider historical patterns. This field examines objects (including architecture) constructed or events captured on film, all designed to visually convey a society's beliefs, motivations, ambitions, and principles. These encompass paintings, sculptures, buildings, landscape designs, photographs, movies, theatrical productions, and media. Artistic works act as a bridge across generations, enabling creators, supporters, audiences, and critics to connect, offering contemporary observers a glimpse into different worldviews. What mattered to people? What messages did artists convey, both directly and subtly? How did they make sense of their surroundings? Art history opens pathways to investigate these inquiries.

At Queens College, art history majors engage with diverse artworks and artifacts spanning various eras and locations. The program offers a foundational understanding: of artistic methods, concepts, and theories, the cultural impact of the arts in our interconnected world, and humanity's creative legacy worldwide. QC's art history curriculum is comprehensive, covering visual traditions from Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, from ancient times to the present. It intersects with disciplines like history, archaeology, religion, philosophy, sociology, and anthropology.