Art History and Theory
Qualifications
BA, CertArts, BA(Hons), MA, PhD, GradDipArts
Introduction
Art History and Theory involves the study of visual culture and, in particular but not exclusively, 'fine art' images and objects. In Art History and Theory at UC you will study various media including painting and drawing, architecture, sculpture, photography and printmaking, ceramics, furniture and weaving. Art institutions and practices, such as collecting, patronage, art education, art criticism and iconography all come into consideration.
Our courses reflect the areas of specialisation of the lecturers, in particular European art from the eighteenth century to mid twentieth century, contemporary art, American art, East Asian art, art theory, Māori and Pacific art, architectural history, links between art and literature, and the art and architecture of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Art History and Theory courses at UC have been consistently voted as among the best taught, best organised and most interesting in the University. We aim to increase your enjoyment of art by increasing your understanding of it and to train you in looking, thinking and writing about art.
Recommended background
Our first-year students come from a variety of backgrounds. School leavers, continuing students, mature students and professionals have all been part of our intake and many have gone on to major in Art History and Theory. Although it is an advantage to have studied history of art at high school in years 12 and 13, this is not a core requirement. More important are your interest, commitment and enthusiasm for the subject – these will serve you well.
100-level courses
Three of the 100-level courses are normally available each year. Students intending to major in Art History and Theory should take at least two of them. Good companion subjects to take with Art History and Theory are Māori and Indigenous Studies, Classics, French, American Studies, History and English (see Related subjects).
Students who are planning to advance to postgraduate study in Art History and Art Theory should consider including in their degree language courses appropriate to their intended area of study.
200-level and beyond
Several areas of specialisation are available beyond first year. Possible pathways include Māori Art, East Asian Art, Western Art, Architecture and Art Theory.
Further study
Students may continue after the three-year BA and enrol in the one-year Bachelor of Arts with Honours (BA(Hons)) programme. Students who have completed a BA(Hons) degree may proceed to the Master of Arts (MA) or doctoral (PhD) programmes, both of which involve thesis work.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Art Curatorship provides opportunities for students with BA degrees in Art History and Theory and related disciplines to specialise in a mix of theoretical and applied courses designed to prepare students to work in the art gallery and museum field.
Career opportunities
While some graduates work directly in the art world, career possibilities are diverse. Many Art History and Theory graduates enter careers which offer ample opportunity to use their highly developed aesthetic sense, attention to visual details, analytical and research skills as well as verbal, written and thinking skills.
Art History and Theory graduates are employed in museums, galleries, in heritage conservation, educational institutions at all levels, libraries and information services, publishing, journalism, marketing and tourism. Many of our students have benefited from majoring in other subjects alongside Art History and Theory, such as Law and Psychology, and the subject is also required as part of the Bachelor of Fine Arts.
For further career information, please go to www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
Contact
Dr Jo Diamond
Art History and Theory programme
School of Humanities
Telephone: +64 3 364 2883
Email: arts@canterbury.ac.nz