Art History

You’ll develop the cultural awareness and critical thinking skills necessary to analyze and interpret a wide range of artistic expressions — preparing you for diverse careers in the arts, museums, galleries, education, and beyond — and empowering you to make a lasting impact in the field of art history.

Overview

Art History examines how visual art, sculptures, architecture, and other forms of expression reflect and influence human behavior, culture, and society. At Lisburn University, we explore how art can be used — and sometimes misused — to shape and challenge cultural, political, and social movements throughout history.

One day in class, your professor might present a famous painting or sculpture from a particular period. You and your classmates analyze, critique, and discuss that artwork from different perspectives, such as its medium, composition, symbolic meanings, historical context, and cultural significance. Then, you’ll write your own critical response to the artwork, reflecting on its impact and relevance in the modern world.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates work and intern in a wide variety of roles within the arts and cultural sectors — museums, galleries, auction houses, art conservation, curatorial work, art education, art criticism, publishing, and nonprofit organizations. Many have gone on to pursue careers in art curation, historical research, and gallery management. Additionally, some have started their own art-related businesses, while others have pursued advanced degrees in art conservation, museum studies, history, and education.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate an understanding of how art reflects and shapes social interactions, cultural values, political movements, and power dynamics, both locally and globally, throughout history.

Students will apply various analytical methods to interpret and critique artworks, considering historical, cultural, and aesthetic contexts, as well as their impact on society.

Students will gain an understanding of the historical development of art and its role in social discourse, preparing them to use their knowledge to contribute to a deeper appreciation of art and its potential for fostering cultural understanding and positive change.

Programme

Semester 1CreditsNumber
Introduction to Art History4ART 101
Visual Culture and Analysis2ART 110
World History Overview4HIST 100
Semester 2CreditsNumber
Classical and Medieval Art4ART 201
Art Materials and Techniques4ART 220
Aesthetics and Art Theory2PHIL 150
Semester 3CreditsNumber
Renaissance Art and Architecture4ART 301
Modern Art Movements2ART 310
History of Architecture4HIST 200
Semester 4CreditsNumber
Baroque and Rococo Art4ART 402
Art and Society in the 19th Century4ART 420
Museum Studies2ART 430
Total for the entire period of study40 

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Unit 1 44-550 Longstone Street, Lisburn BT28 1TP Northern Ireland

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