Art History (Minor)
See the world through art
Art tells the stories of cultures and the people who shaped them. Explore how paintings, sculpture, architecture and visual culture reflect the beliefs, values and experiences of societies across time and place. Learn to look beyond the surface, uncover connections between art and history, and consider how images influence the way we understand our world. Whether your interests lie in history, literature, anthropology or another field, discover new perspectives that enrich your education.
Are you a KCTC student interested in transferring? Navigate your journey from KCTCS through KCTC pathways, ensuring a seamless transfer to UofL.
This program was approved for students entering the university in the Summer 2026-Spring 2027 catalog year. For more information about catalog year, go to Catalog Year Information.
Minor in Art History
Unit: College of Arts and Sciences (AS)
Department: Art and Design
Academic Plan Code(s): ARTHMINOR
Program Requirements
Admission to the minor in Art History requires a minimum GPA of at least 2.5.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Select two of the following courses: | 6 | |
ARTH 250 | Ancient Through Medieval Art - AH | |
ARTH 270 | Renaissance Through Modern Art - AH | |
ARTH 290 | Survey of Asian Art - AH, P2 | |
| ARTH electives at 300 level, including no more than one from each of these areas: Pre-1750, After 1750, Non-Western | 9 | |
| Art History elective at 500 level | 3 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 18 | |
At least three (3) semester hours of the requirements for a minor must be successfully completed while enrolled in the University of Louisville.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Art History minor introduces students to art, architecture and visual culture from different historical periods and geographic regions. Students examine works of art within their cultural, social, political and historical contexts while developing skills in visual analysis, research and critical interpretation.
No prior studio art experience is necessary. The Art History minor focuses on studying and interpreting works of art rather than creating them. Students from a variety of academic disciplines can benefit from exploring the relationships between art, history and culture.
The Art History minor requires 18 credit hours of coursework. Students should consult the Undergraduate Catalog for specific course requirements and approved electives.
Yes. The Art History minor complements a wide range of majors, including Studio Art, Design, Anthropology, Biology, Engineering, English, History, Humanities and many other disciplines. It enhances any major by developing critical thinking, visual analysis and research skills while broadening students' understanding of cultural expression, historical developments and the ways societies communicate through images and objects.
Students develop skills in visual analysis, critical thinking, research, writing and interpretation. They learn to examine visual evidence, evaluate historical and cultural contexts, construct informed arguments and communicate ideas effectively.
The Art History minor emphasizes the historical and cultural study of art, architecture and visual culture. The Art minor focuses on hands-on studio practice, allowing students to explore artistic materials, techniques and creative expression. Both offer opportunities to engage with art from different perspectives.
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