History Degrees Online

Art history is distinctive in its direct engagement with art objects through visual analysis and historical study. We use art objects to understand history and culture, and history and culture to understand art objects. Students earning a bachelor of arts in art history explore the varied roles of artists, their art, and their patrons across diverse cultural and historical contexts. In addition, they experience the creative process of making art. Students gain a breadth of knowledge spanning both Western and non-Western subfields in the discipline. Art history majors develop skills in analyzing images of texts that are applicable to a wide range of personal, civic, and professional endeavors; they may also go on to graduate work in art history and professional work in art-related fields.

As an art history major at Santa Clara University, you’ll learn to examine visual art in the context of the nature and evolution of human societies past and present. You’ll develop strong skills in research, analysis, reflection, and discrimination, as well as written and oral communication and argument. Some majors go on to graduate study for professional work in arts publications, museums, and galleries. Others take their research, analytical, and writing skills into related fields, such as communication media, law, and education.

History is the critical examination of human experience in all its phases: political, social, intellectual, religious, cultural and economic.

The Saint Martin’s University undergraduate program in history strives to assist the student in developing critical, analytical thinking skills essential for cultivating the mind. The University’s history graduates are well prepared to succeed in professional work as historians or in graduate education. This program also serves the professional requirements of other departments by examining the history of peoples who constitute the contemporary world. The program also gives a solid base of knowledge and skill for successful careers in the fields of government, business, law, journalism and teaching.

Saint Martin’s history program provides:

Small class size, which enables students to work closely with their faculty members.

Library resources, computers and study environments to support its students.

A faculty advisor for each student from the time he or she enters the program through graduation.

Field experiences, internships and other learning opportunities outside the classroom.

A strong liberal arts tradition that promotes oral and written fluency, critical thinking, academic excellence and sound ethical judgment.