Art History

Welcome to the Department of Art History at the University of Toronto, St. George campus! 

The Art History Department provides students with the ability to examine, reflect upon, and write about visual representations. It is often claimed that the experience of contemporary culture is one in which the visual has eclipsed the other senses, meaning that the skills associated with the history of art have become indispensable to navigating our present world. As an art history student, you will learn to think critically, creatively and objectively; write clearly and effectively across genres; develop creative solutions to unique situations; and understand, interpret and communicate cultural differences. 

The range of course offerings in the Department is extraordinary. At its essence, the program examines the transmission of ideas by means of visual images and architectural forms, conceived and expressed by individuals or by whole societies and civilizations. Art History students will explore the history of art and architecture of Europe, North America, and South and East Asia, spanning all periods of the human past from cave paintings to the contemporary art scene. 

The Art History Department offers a wide range of opportunities for experiential learning and professional development. Through its close relationship with the Royal Ontario Museum, several seminars are taught each year by the professional curators who care for and study these objects at the museum. Likewise, we have several internship and fellowship programs which provide unique experiences at the ROM, AGO, Aga Khan, and Art Museum on campus – among others. The Department also supports many of its students through numerous awards and scholarships, not to mention the Art History Writing Lab offering one-on-one tutoring. Advanced students will also be able to work with faculty on research projects as well as enrol in study abroad programs and other research excursions. 

We recommend joining the History of Art Students’ Association (HASA) to get connected with a lively and diverse community of students. HASA facilitates information sessions, workshops and feedback sessions, in addition to organizing an annual symposium and journal where students can present and publish their work. Another great way to get involved with the arts on campus is through Hart House, which offers programming and facilities ranging from the academic to the artistic/cultural to the athletic, notably through the Hart House Art Committee. 

Learn more about... 

The Department of Art History at St. George: https://arthistory.utoronto.ca/about-us/department-art-history-st-george 

Get to know our students and faculty through the Art History Video Series: https://arthistory.utoronto.ca/undergraduate/resources-undergraduate-students/art-history-video-series 

Opportunities for experiential learning and internships in Art History: https://arthistory.utoronto.ca/undergraduate/current-undergraduate-students/experiential-learning-and-internships 

Career opportunities with an Art History degree: https://arthistory.utoronto.ca/undergraduate/resources-undergraduate-students/beyond-undergrad 

Program requirements for the Minor, Major, and Specialist degrees: https://arthistory.utoronto.ca/undergraduate/current-undergraduate-students/program-requirements