Brookings Main Campus
Explore the history of art.
Learn to think critically and contextually. Gain a unique perspective on the various manifestations of humankind’s creative endeavors and the variety and complexity of human experience as learned through the study of artifacts. Learn to approach problems interdisciplinarily. The certificate in art history is a stand-alone program and may be taken by any students regardless of major or may be selected by studio art and design majors as part of their degree. Students from backgrounds as diverse as arts and design, history, the humanities, modern languages economics and law-related disciplines can benefit from this certificate. Students in this program will learn time-management skills by working on complex, semester-long projects; they will hone advanced reading, writing and speaking skills specific to a discipline supporting their studio and design practices; they will receive an education complementary to history, modern languages, economics, journalism, marketing and law degrees to open additional careers related to the fine arts. Art history is a discipline that bridges art and the humanities and prepares you to continue your education in graduate school.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in the history and interpretation of the fine arts, graphic design, buildings, interiors, designed objects and material culture.
- Are a visual, creative and critical thinker.
- Are a good writer and want to add additional strengths to your background in the humanities, history, global studies, modern languages and marketing.
- Have interdisciplinary interests.
- Want to pursue an art- and design- related career.
Career Opportunities
- Support for careers in art and design, artist representation, art law, art appraisal, art restoration, antique dealership (with further education)
- Educator
- Museum curator
- Art gallerist
- Art consultant
Suggested Majors
- Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Art Education Specialization
- Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Ceramics Specialization
- Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Painting Specialization
- Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Printmaking Specialization
- Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Sculpture Specialization
- Architecture (B.F.A.)
- Landscape Architecture (B.L.A.)
- Graphic Design (B.F.A.)
- English (B.A./B.S.)
- History (B.A./B.S.)
- History (B.A./B.S.) - Teaching Specialization
- Journalism (B.A./B.S.)
- Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising (B.S.)
- Sociology (B.A./B.S.)
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.