COURSE CURRICULUM

The Art History program at Oregon State University follows a structured four-year curriculum that integrates foundational studies, advanced coursework, and general education requirements to build critical skills in visual analysis, historical context, and research. In the first year, students take introductory art history surveys such as ART 204, 205, and 206, alongside foundational studio courses and general education in communication, math, and language. Students are expected to complete WR 121, a college-level math course, and a communication requirement by the end of spring term. They also begin studying a second language, which continues through the second year.During the second year, students deepen their experience with studio electives, intermediate art history courses such as ART 208, and continue their BA language sequence. They also begin taking writing-intensive coursework and general education classes in areas like cultural diversity, literature, and social sciences. By spring, students are encouraged to complete their second-year language requirement and engage with 300-level art history coursework that will eventually fulfill the program’s requirement to study Contemporary, Global, and Historical art.The third year emphasizes upper-division art history courses, covering different time periods and global perspectives. Students also complete science lab courses in physical, biological, and a third scientific discipline, along with remaining general education core classes. Electives at the upper-division level begin to form a major component of the curriculum, supporting the university’s requirement of 60 upper-division credits for graduation.In the final year, students take 400-level art history courses and complete ART 469, the program’s writing-intensive capstone focused on art historical methods and theory. Additional coursework includes synthesis requirements and electives, both general and upper-division. Throughout the program, students build a strong foundation in art history, critical thinking, and research, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in museums, education, or cultural institutions.