Welcome to the Department of Art and Art History!

There are more images on your phone than anyone living 200 years ago would have seen in their lifetimes.

Studying art and art history teaches you to understand where images come from and how they work, giving you an advantage in an increasingly visual world.

Our interdisciplinary Studio Art major is grounded in studio practice and fine art skills, but also develops your writing and research abilities. The Art History major develops cultural literacy, taking you beyond aesthetic appreciation; you will learn about the lived and living history of art and how it affects the present, preparing you for global citizenship.

Whether you create art or study it, the Department of Art & Art History will prepare you to think creatively, communicate effectively, and solve complex problems—invaluable skills in the job market.

About Our Program

The Department of Art and Art History offers degree programs leading to the bachelor of arts in two undergraduate majors, art history and studio art, with courses in both disciplines fostering a thorough understanding of the history and practice of art. Department faculty encourage interdisciplinary connections with the Santa Clara community through course offerings that fulfill a wide range of college and undergraduate Core Curriculum requirements, as well as offering courses through the University Honors Program.