BA in Art History - History and Theories of Art in Rochester United States | University of Rochester

The Department of Art and Art History focuses on providing a well-rounded education in both the practice and historical examination of visual arts. Students have the option to pursue a major, minor, or cluster in either art history or studio arts.
At Rochester, we foster technically skilled artists with a deep appreciation for art's cultural significance. Our students learn from distinguished faculty members who are active contributors to the art world, both locally in Rochester and internationally.
What sets our department apart is our emphasis on visual culture rather than conventional art history. Our curriculum includes courses spanning ancient to contemporary art periods, along with specialized studies in photography and architecture. The visual studies program explores cultural aspects of imagery, extending beyond traditional artistic boundaries. We bridge theory and practice through internships, study abroad programs, and engagement with Rochester's thriving arts community.
Graduates from our department embark on diverse career paths and further education—from graphic design and teaching to historic preservation and law, freelance projects to consulting. Essentially, our programs cultivate critical thinking, creative synthesis of concepts and materials, along with strong writing, research, and analytical abilities—skills that prove beneficial in all life pursuits.
Art history majors can tailor their studies through flexible pathways aligned with personal interests and professional goals.
These structured focus areas accommodate different student approaches to exploring art and visual culture, enabling interdisciplinary course combinations for a customized major within our department.