COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor program in Art History and Visual Studies at the University of Victoria is designed to give students a broad understanding of global art traditions along with strong analytical and communication skills. In the first stage of the program, students begin with core introductory courses such as Exploring World Art and Understanding Visual Communication, which provide a foundation for studying how art and images function across cultures and time periods. Students also take one co-requisite course from related fields such as contemporary visual art, theatre, music appreciation, film music, creative writing, or arts and technology, helping them connect visual studies with other creative disciplines. As they progress, students complete intermediate-level AHVS courses that deepen their understanding of art history and visual culture. The program also requires students to study art from different regions, including Europe and the Mediterranean before the modern period, Islam and Asia, and the Arts of the Americas along with modern and contemporary art and architecture, ensuring a global perspective. In advanced years, students complete higher-level AHVS courses at the 300 and 400 level, focusing on specialized topics and critical analysis. Overall, the program combines historical study, cultural diversity, and visual analysis, preparing students for careers in museums, galleries, media, education, and other creative and cultural industries.