The histories of painting, sculpture, architecture, design, and the graphic arts are examined in relation to such contextual issues as religion, politics, society, gender, economics, philosophy, and culture. Students who pursue the Bachelor of Arts in art history will acquire a thorough humanistic education that involves writing, speaking, and participating in group discussions, as well as developing a facility in at least one foreign language. Majors are also encouraged to pursue a study abroad experience.

The major provides students with a solid liberal arts background and is an excellent preparation for the further study of art history or other related fields in graduate school. With a B.A. in art history, graduates have found employment in museums, galleries, publishing, arts agencies, visual resources, archives/libraries, archaeology, historic preservation, and historic sites. The two most common careers for art historians are teaching at the college level or working in a museum (as a curator, registrar, director, etc.). These careers typically require graduate degrees.