Mar 28, 2024  
2018-2019 University Catalog 
    
2018-2019 University Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Art and Architectural History, B.A.


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Roger Williams University offers an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts in Art and Architectural History degree.

Mission Statement

The Art and Architectural History curriculum provides students with a comprehensive background for understanding both the visual arts and architecture in relation to society, culture, and history. The program employs a multidisciplinary approach to visual culture, drawing from the programs within the School or Architecture, Art, and Historic Preservation as well as from subject areas of anthropology, psychology, philosophy, and cultural studies. The synergy between these disciplines promotes awareness of the interconnectedness of the arts and of the close connection of materials and process with meaning. In addition to its focus on the built environment, the Art and Architectural History program provides an opportunity for students to study the philosophical, aesthetic, and social meanings of many other kinds of visual cultural products throughout history and to develop the intellectual tools necessary to engage in analytical and critical study of works of art and architecture. The program prepares students to pursue an academic or professional career within the field.

The program makes use of the rich museum and gallery environment of the region for course work as well as for student internships. Art and Architectural History courses offered through the Roger Williams University Florence Study Abroad Program are an exciting and valuable option in completing the major. Students majoring in Art and Architectural History are also encouraged to take those courses relevant to the history of cultures offered in the Feinstein College of Arts and Sciences.

The Art and Architectural History major is complementary to others offered in the School. Compact major requirements also allow students to easily complete a double major in any number of liberal arts fields, or certification program in Elementary or Secondary Education. The program prepares students for graduate study in Art and Architectural History, Museum Studies, Education, and careers in teaching, museum work, art conservation or the commercial art world.

Program Requirements


The program leading to a Bachelor of Arts in Art and Architectural History is a 12-course, 36-credit major. The courses build upon a two-course introductory sequence, a seven-course intermediate level, two advanced seminars and a senior seminar or thesis. This flexible program is tailored to the particular interests and goals of each student who may, beginning at the intermediate level, develop a six-course concentration in either Art History or Architectural History. Majors are required to complete two years of study in a foreign language.

Required Courses


Optional Concentration


Students may elect to pursue a six-course concentration from the intermediate courses and advanced seminars in either Art History or Architectural History.

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