Art History
Art history degree students study works of art in their social, political, and intellectual contexts. They learn to think, read, and write about art and interpret visual imagery.
Tracks
Art History Major
Students progress through chronological survey courses into upper-level seminars and research projects. The art history major culminates in the senior seminar, which includes the public presentation of research.
Art History Minor
The art history minor gives you a broad overview of some more advanced courses. Specialize in a particular period or style, or expand your knowledge to multiple topics.
Certificate Program
What You'll Learn
Pursuing Museum Work
[I’m] a passionate lover of art history. [I] appreciate the value of an arts education as a means to explore any subject, time period, philosophy, and culture.
Faith Herrington, who interned with the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts in Maryland and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and traveled to Greece and Italy to conduct art historical researchHollins: Too Great to Keep to Ourselves
Hollins just isn’t one thing. It’s different for every one of us, and it changes on a daily basis. It’s in that moment when Hollins becomes more than a school. Your classmates become our sisters. Your professors become your mentors. Classrooms and studios become your dorm room. Moody Plaza becomes your personal patio, and the dining hall becomes the main source of your entertainment. It’s when you unconsciously call Hollins home.
Gabrielle Awuma, development assistant, Phillips Collection, Washington, DCFaculty Mentors Help You Grow Skills, Knowledge
The art history program at Hollins is one of the university’s most multi-faceted programs. Through art you will learn a combination of history, political science, sociology, languages, and gender and women studies. The program helped develop my critical thinking and communication skills, all while giving me the expertise needed to navigate today’s visual media landscape. The best benefit of a more intimate department is receiving one-on-one mentoring: Professors Kathleen Nolan and Genevieve Hendricks have a keen sense of your gifts and offer constant encouragement, both pre- and post-graduation.
Natasha Campbell, fellowship coordinator, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond
