A primary component of all Studio Arts Majors and Minors, which explores some of the fundamental principles, concepts, and historical and contemporary contexts that constitute a contemporary art practice. Assignments provide students with experience across a range of modes of art making while emphasizing the basic concepts that underlie visual expression. Studio activity is augmented with research, discussion, and critique. Students develop an awareness of the exciting possibilities in developing a formal and conceptual vocabulary.

Outcome: Explore and express visual concepts. Develop creative competencies. Utilize design elements to communicate themes and ideas. Expand cognitive capacities. Comprehend historical and contemporary approaches to visual art.

An examination of the basic elements and organizational systems of visual expression through the application of design principles and theory.

Outcome: Students will be able manipulate various forms of media to produce desired spatial effects, and understand how to control – by using such design methods as scale, perspective, and composition - the viewer’s understanding of and reaction to visual information on a two-dimensional surface. 

An introduction to the basic elements of drawing including: line, value, texture, volume, shape, proportion, perspective and visual composition. A variety of drawing materials will be explored with an emphasis on observation problems designed to build technical, perceptual, and personal expressive interpretation of form through the drawing idiom.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of basic drawing principles and vocabulary, through practice and articulation of both formal and artistic ideas. This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience.

An introduction to the basic elements of painting including: the application of drawing, design, and color principles.  A variety of materials will be explored with an emphasis on oil painting. Observational problems will be introduced to build technical, perceptual, and personal expressive interpretation of form through the painting idiom.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of basic painting principles and vocabulary, through practice and articulation of both formal and artistic ideas. This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience.

This course introduces the equipment, techniques, aesthetics, and themes of photography as a form of visual art.  The course covers basic operations and functions of a camera, file management, image correction, and inkjet printing.  Students learn the technical concepts in order to develop their ability to express ideas through photography.  The course also emphasizes strengthening visual literacy through lectures, discussions, and critiques.

A fully adjustable digital camera (DSLR) and an external hard drive are required.

Outcome: Students will learn how to apply their knowledge of camera operation, editing, and printing to formulate and communicate ideas through photography.  The course focuses on building the students’ visual literacy and understanding of photography as a form of visual art. This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience.

An exploration of the production of fine art multiples as they are created utilizing zinc and copper plates. Techniques of etching and engraving aquatint and color printing as well as innovative processes are taught.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate understanding of the techniques needed to produce images on metal plates and alternative surface; the intrinsic qualities particular to expression in print media, recognize fine prints, specific techniques, and archival quality in historical examples, use intaglio presses as a means of production  and form evaluative judgments about printed imagery. 

An exploration of various handbuilding techniques, surface design techniques, and firing ranges available to the contemporary ceramist. Students are encouraged to pursue individual expression in the context of a broad range of methods and creative concepts. 

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate the basics of successful construction and glaze techniques; demonstrate creative strategies and critical evaluation of the creative process; demonstrate an understanding of both historical and contemporary approaches to the medium and the role of the Ceramic artist in cultures past and present. This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience.

An introduction to the potters’ wheel. Students learn basic throwing skills, explore utilitarian design concepts, and learn to balance spontaneous and practiced approaches to process. Emphasis is on the successful integration of craft and personal expression.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate basic wheelthrowing and glaze techniques; demonstrate creative strategies and critical evaluation of the creative process; demonstrate an understanding of both historical and contemporary approaches to the medium and the role of the Ceramic artist in cultures past and present. 

The methods and processes of construction using nonferrous metals applied to problems in design and function. Projects are designed to familiarize the student with processes in metalwork and the proper use of hand tools.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental characteristics of metal; the ability to cut, shape and manipulate metals; to express visual ideas in low and high relief; and to form judgments about design on other than flat surfaces.

An introduction to three dimensional concepts and materials, and associated techniques, in the process of articulating a personal artistic statement.  Students will be guided in the fabrication of various 3-D constructions employing a wide range of building materials such as plaster, wood, clay, foam board, paper, and metals. 

Outcome: Students will be able to translate two-dimensional sketches and drawings into expressive three dimensional forms; demonstrate basic sculpting techniques and creative strategies; provide critical evaluation of the creative process; and produce objects that are viewable in the round, structurally stable with masses and appendages proportionate to one another. This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience.

This course initiates a professional sequence whereby the student receives an introduction to typography and the use of two dimensional design principles necessary for visual communication.

Outcome: Students will gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of visual communication. They will develop technical skills in materials and techniques and they will be able to articulate both formal and artistic ideas to others.

Prerequisite: majors only

An examination of the nature of subtractive and additive color in its physiological, psychological, aesthetic, and symbolic dimensions through the application of past and current theory.

Outcome: Students will be able to manipulate color papers, paints and inks in a series of specific exercises that explore the many aspects of color to the end of understanding how color influences human reactions to information and products.

An introduction to the principles of art and their application to broader visual culture, this course explores the complex nature of art through an examination of its visual elements, techniques, functions, critical methodologies, and related social issues. The course takes advantage of Chicago’s artistic resources.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of the elements of visual language; means of visual expression in diverse cultures and eras; media and techniques of art; artistic terminology; and critical approaches to the study of visual culture and related social issues. Students will acquire the skills to interpret art and visual culture in oral and written form.

This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience, Film & Digital Media Studies, International Film & Media Studies.

A general survey which explores the development of art in Western culture from pre-history through the sources of the Renaissance in the fourteenth century.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the ideas, formal expressions, themes, techniques, and functions of art in relation to their cultural, social, and historical contexts.  Students acquire the skills to critically analyze the relationships between various art forms and their relation to historical cultures. This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience. Catholic Studies & European Studies.

A general survey which explores the development of art in Western culture from the Renaissance to modern art in the twentieth century.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the ideas, formal expressions, themes, techniques, and functions of art in relation to their cultural, social, and historical contexts.  Students acquire the skills to critically analyze the relationships between various art forms and their relation to historical cultures. This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience.

Cross-listed with European Studies.

A survey of major art movements in Europe and America from Impressionism through the twentieth century, this course examines evolving ideas about the forms, content, techniques, and functions of art in the modern era considered within its social, political, and historical context.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the ideas, formal expressions, themes, techniques, and functions of art in relation to the social-historical context of the modern era. Students acquire the skills to critically analyze the relationships between art forms and their relation to modern culture.

This course is eligible for Core Curriculum credit in the category of Artistic Knowledge and Experience. Cross-listed: European Studies / Film & Digital Media Studies / Global & International Studies / International Film & Media Studies.

An examination of the history of the Chicago School of Architecture along with public sculpture and mural painting in Chicago, this course explores the changing trends of American public art, artists response to a public audience, and issues of social responsibility. Participation in class field trips is required.

Outcome: Students will be able to identify the major social concerns of the city as well as the means by which visual arts can be integrated into its daily life. They will be able to recognize the major artists and recent artistic developments in their urban context. Cross-listed with Urban Studies.

An examination of women artists in Western culture and the societies in which they worked, from the medieval period to the present; women's artistic production; the styles and subject matter they embraced; and their relation to artistic trends of their eras are explored within the context of social attitudes about gender.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of women's contribution to the visual arts, the factors that impacted their participation in the art world, the underlying ways that gender constructions impact society, and feminist theory and methodologies related to art. Cross-listed with Women & Gender Studies.

Prerequisite: FNAR 113

An intermediate level drawing course designed to extend the understanding of the visual elements of drawing introduced in FNAR 113. This course includes an emphasis on color and an exploration of a broader range of drawing media. Observational and conceptual problems are introduced.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of more advanced drawing principles through expanded practice and articulation of both formal and artistic ideas.

Prerequisite: FNAR 114

An intermediate level painting course designed to extend the understanding of the application of drawing, design, and color principles introduced in FNAR 114. This course will explore both oil and acrylic painting and a variety of substrates. Emphasis on the human figure and individualized conceptual problems will be introduced to build technical, perceptual, and personal expressive interpretation of form through the painting idiom.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of more advanced painting principles through expanded practice and articulation of both formal and artistic ideas.

Prerequisite: FNAR 115 – Foundations of Photography or Permission of the Instructor

This course expands the students’ knowledge of the photographic medium by introducing black and white film and darkroom printing.  The course focuses on shooting with a traditional film camera, developing the film in a lab, and printing in a darkroom.  The students explore how the process and aesthetics of traditional black and white film make it unique from digital photography.

A fully adjustable 35mm film camera (single-lens reflex camera) is required.

Outcome: Students will learn how to shoot film with a traditional film camera and develop the exposed films in the lab.  The course covers the steps of working in a darkroom environment, from the use of the enlargers to processing an exposed print.  The students will apply the process and aesthetic qualities that are distinct to black and white film photography in their own projects. Cross-listed with Film & Digital Media Studies / International Film & Media Studies.

Prerequisite: FNAR 118

This course explores specialized work in intaglio, monotypes, and mixed media. Emphasis is placed on the development and perfecting of technique.

Outcome: Students demonstrate understanding of mixed-media printing; knowledge of a wide range of printmaking media; apply drawing concepts to the materials of printmaking; produce a consistent body of work in a complex medium; recognize historical prototypes and articulate the differences to others; and form judgments needed to adapt image making in a highly technical area of expression.

Prerequisite: FNAR 115

This course builds on FNAR 115 - Foundations of Photography with a more in-depth overview of the digital workflow. The course focuses on advanced editing techniques in Photoshop in regards to color correction, color management, image compositing, and image manipulation. The students will learn how to directly operate a professional inkjet printer and experiment with various inkjet papers. Students will learn the technical and aesthetic concepts that are crucial components of the digital workflow to further develop their visual languages as photographic artists.

A fully adjustable digital camera (DSLR) and an external hard drive are required.

Outcome: Students learn more complex and intricate approaches to editing in Photoshop. The students also learn how to operate a professional inkjet printer and the importance of paper selection in the editing and production of an inkjet print. The course examines the technical and creative possibilities that have become possible today with digital technology. Cross-listed: Film & Digital Media Studies / International Film & Media Studies.

Prerequisite FNAR 124 and either FNAR 120 or 121

This intermediate course expands the students’ knowledge of materials, techniques and concepts relative to the production of three-dimensional artwork. Students explore the dynamic interrelationship between art, craft and design, with particular emphasis on the role and function of three-dimensional artworks historically and in contemporary practice. Visual and written research is a component of the course, as are personal reflection and group discussion. The course provides context for the key concepts explored.

Outcome: Students develop technical, aesthetic, and conceptual strategies in the creation of three-dimensional artwork, and increased awareness of cultural / historical perspectives of the medium.

Prerequisite FNAR 124 and either FNAR 120 or 121

This intermediate course expands the students’ knowledge of materials, techniques and concepts relative to the production of three-dimensional artwork. Students examine traditional and experimental approaches to model making, mold making and casting methodologies, and explore the conceptual possibilities for reproduction and multiplication in sculpture and ceramics. Visual and written research is a component of the course, as are personal reflection and group discussion. The course provides context for the key concepts explored.

Outcome: Students develop technical, aesthetic, and conceptual strategies in the creation of three-dimensional artwork, and increased awareness of cultural / historical perspectives of the medium.

Prerequisite: FNAR 132

A continued study of the visual and conceptual principles introduced in FNAR 132, set in a strong historical context.

Outcome: Students will gain an understanding of graphic design history and its relation to historic events. They will advance in their understanding of visual communication and in their ability to evaluate it.

An exploration of image editing and image creation using Adobe Photoshop. This industry standard software is introduced as a vehicle for basic design concepts and as a tool for creative expression.

Outcome: Students gain an understanding of software skills and design basics. They develop the ability and techniques to manipulate software in the production of artistic compositions effectively combining image and typography. Cross-listed: Film & Digital Media Studies / International Film & Media Studies.

Content may vary according to the particular focus of the instructor.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the richness of African-American visual arts as they developed within and outside the purview of traditional art venues.

An examination of Nineteenth Century art in Paris as shaped by contemporary changes in the physical, social, and economic life of the city.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of nineteenth century art and artists in the context of the emergence of a modern, industrial urban complex.

An examination of American painting, sculpture, and architecture from the colonial period to the period immediately following World War II. Emphasis is placed on the development of specifically American art forms as they evolved from their dependency upon European sources.

Outcome: Students will be able to recognize and demonstrate knowledge of major artists and artistic movements from the earliest days of the Republic when Europe served as a source of training and inspiration, to the beginnings of modern times when global developments shifted the focus of artistic inspiration to New York.

An examination of recent developments in American and European art beginning with the physical shift of the center of artistic authority from Paris to New York during and immediately after World War II.

Outcome: Students will be able to recognize and demonstrate knowledge of major artists and artistic movements from the mid-twentieth century to the present day. They will also understand the major theoretical issues of the period.

Prerequisite: FNAR 213/FNAR 214/equivalent

The most advanced level studio course in painting and drawing, this is designed to aid the student in developing a body of creative work from conception to production to presentation. This course is conducted as an individual studio practicum between the instructor and student. The course may be taken twice for credit.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate a strong understanding of their own creative process through the development of a cohesive body of work.

FNAR 215 - Photography: Film and Darkroom or FNAR  219 - Photography: Digital Imaging is a prerequisite; concurrent enrollment in one of these courses is acceptable with FNAR 316.

This is an advanced photography course that builds on the topics covered in previous classes in both digital and film photography to develop student-driven projects.  The course introduces the use of medium and large format film cameras that are integrated into a digital workflow to produce high-resolution prints.  The course also covers the use of studio lighting with the cameras.  This course encourages each student to synthesize the technical and creative concepts they have learned through the previous classes to develop a cohesive body of work that will form a portfolio.

Outcome: Students will learn the processes and advantages of using medium and large format cameras.  Furthermore, the students will learn how to scan film and integrate analog photography into a digital workflow to produce high-resolution prints.  Finally, the students will gain the experience of developing a cohesive body of work over the course of the semester.

FNAR  219 - Photography: Digital Imaging is a prerequisite; concurrent enrollment is acceptable.

This is an advanced photography course that introduces students to techniques with both available and artificial lights.  The course places special emphasis on using lighting equipment in a studio environment and shooting with the camera tethered to a computer.  Students will also learn how to use lighting equipment to shoot on locations.  This course develops and refines the concepts in camera operation and digital imaging that are covered in previous courses.  The students learn how the understanding and control of lighting becomes an essential component in the creation of photographic images.

A fully adjustable digital camera (DSLR) and an external hard drive are required.

Outcome: Students learn the equipment, materials, and techniques in shooting with available and artificial lights.  Moreover, students learn the safe and proper uses of the equipment and materials.  Students will create photographic works that will creatively apply the technical concepts covered in the course and present a portfolio at the end of the semester.

Prerequisite: FNAR 222 and FNAR 224 or permission of instructor

An advanced studio course in which students focus on developing an independent, compelling three dimensional fine arts practice through a more focused approach to the application and synthesis of knowledge and experiences in comparison to Intermediate Studio courses. Visual and written research and field trips are components of the course, as is personal reflection and group discussion. Technical experiments and key concepts are geared specifically to the students interests and artistic goals.

Outcome: Select and apply appropriate materials and methods to resolve complex visual and conceptual problems; and meaningfully discuss key issues. Create a portfolio of work built on independent investigation.

Prerequisites: FNAR 232 or permission of instructor.

A continued study of the principles underlying graphic design combined with an emphasis on the communicative power of typography and image.

Outcome: Students gain an understanding of how contemporary design is used to communicate. They begin to develop a sophisticated body of work and advance in their ability to evaluate visual communication.

Prerequisite: FNAR 234

An exploration of time-based motion graphics. Industry standard software is utilized as a vehicle for learning graphic animation concepts and as a tool for creative expression.

Outcomes: Students gain an understanding of software skills and design basics. They develop the ability and techniques to manipulate software in the production of motion graphics effectively combining image and typography.

An examination of the art and architecture of the Christian world from 250 to 1453 CE, including the Early Christian, Byzantine, Carolingian, Romanesque, and Gothic periods, as well as the influence of Islamic culture.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of forms, ideas, themes, techniques, and functions of medieval art and their relation to relevant cultural, social, and historical contexts. They will acquire the skills to critically analyze these relationships and to understand the scholarship and issues related to medieval studies.

A survey of Rome's artistic heritage, including architecture, mosaic, painting, and sculpture from antiquity to the present day studied within the context of Rome's changing roles in Western European history. Classes are taught on site at the John Felice Rome Center.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of Rome's cultural role in history and of its artistic traditions and how they relate to their historical context.

An examination of art and architecture in Europe during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries with special concentration on the preeminence of Rome (Rome Center students are expected to visit and study certain works of art in their original location).

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of forms, ideas, themes, techniques, and functions of seventeenth and eighteenth-century Western European art and their relation to relevant cultural, social, and historical contexts. They acquire skills to critically analyze these relationships and to understand the scholarship and issues related to Baroque studies.

An examination of Italian art and architecture from the late thirteenth to the late fifteenth centuries with special emphasis on Florence, Siena, and centers in northern Italy such as Padua and Mantua (Rome Center students visit and study certain works of art in their original location).

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of forms, ideas, themes, techniques, and functions of early Italian Renaissance art and their relation to relevant cultural, social, and historical contexts. They acquire skills to critically analyze these relationships and to understand the scholarship and issues related to Italian Renaissance art.

An examination of Italian painting, sculpture, and architecture from the late fifteenth through the sixteenth centuries, focusing on the art of Florence, Rome, and Venice and including consideration of such artists as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian (Rome Center students visit and study works of art in their original location).

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of forms, ideas, themes, techniques, and functions of Italian High Renaissance and Mannerist art and their relation to relevant cultural, social, and historical contexts. Students acquire skills to critically analyze these relationships and to understand the scholarship and issues related to Italian High Renaissance and Mannerist art.

An examination of the integral role that the visual arts and architecture have played in the Catholic faith since its early centuries.

Outcome:  Students will understand the role of Catholic art and architecture within its theological, social, and historical contexts through an examination of both visual and related textual sources.

An examination of the major cultural and art forms of Mesoamerica and South America from earliest remains to the fall of the Aztec and Inca empires.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate the ability to distinguish the sculptural, pictorial, and architectural styles of the diverse cultures found within the geographical boundaries defined. They will be cognizant of the controlling ritual and burial practices as well as the wealth of archeological finds still being uncovered.

An examination of the cultural background and major art forms of the Islamic world from the origins of Islam to the 18th century. 

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of the religious and cultural forces shaping Islamic art. They will be able to distinguish the regional styles and identify the major monuments of the diverse cultures within the Islamic world. Students will understand the role of the visual arts in Islamic society and be cognizant of differing attitudes toward art within Islam.

An examination of the traditional arts of West Africa and the Pacific and their role in the control and organization of tribal societies before the introduction of European influences.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate understanding of the unique role of the visual arts and music in the transmission of traditional mores. They will demonstrate understanding of the social and artistic distinctions found in a comparison of highly centralized societies with loosely defined tribal organization and how this is reflected in different cultural standards.

An examination of the cultural background and major art forms of South Asia from the Indus River Valley settlements to the present. As well as sculpture, architecture and painting, popular visual art forms will be examined.

Outcomes: Students will demonstrate knowledge of the religious, cultural and political forces shaping South Asian art. They will be able to distinguish the regional styles and identify the major monuments of South Asia. Students will understand the role of the visual arts in South Asian society.

An examination of the cultural background and major visual art forms of China from prehistoric to early modern times.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of the philosophical and religious sources of the major traditional art forms of China.  They will recognize the degree to which Confucian morality controlled the social and intellectual principles by which society was governed and the arts evaluated until the advent of Communism.

An examination of the cultural background and major art forms of Japan from earliest times until the twentieth century. 

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of the philosophical and religious sources of the major art forms of Japan.  They will recognize the dual formative influences of indigenous traditions and those of foreign origin in what becomes a uniquely Japanese adaptation and resolution of ideas expressed effectively either verbally or visually.

An examination of issues related to women, art, and society in early modern Europe (15th-17th centuries) through a study of women as subject matter, viewers, producers, and patrons of art. A multi-disciplinary approach is employed to explore how gender as a social, political, and psychological category is reflected in and reinforced by visual culture.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate knowledge of the ways gender is constructed in society, the origins and effects of gender attitudes, the interrelation between gender and visual culture, and the ways women have claimed agency. Students will critically analyze visual culture and gender attitudes and demonstrate knowledge of feminist theory and scholarly methods.

A survey of the evolution of graphic communication from prehistory through postmodern design and the digital revolution.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the ideas, formal expres­sions, themes, techniques, and functions of graphic communication in relation to its social-historical context. Students acquire the skills to critically analyze the relationships between graphic communication and its relation to culture.

A chronological and thematic survey of the history of photography, especially in Europe and America. Fine art and utilitarian applications of the medium are considered by examining photographers who represent the origin and development of major pictorial forms; the interaction between technology and imagery; and the relationships between photography and historical, social and cultural events.

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the most important pictorial forms, themes, practitioners, processes and context of photography as a fine and applied art from the beginning of the nineteenth century to the present.

An examination of the history of the built environment from the earliest known forms to contemporary examples, in terms of architectural theory, structural realities and socio-cultural usages. 

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the many ways architecture serves the human race, and be able to constructively analyze the specific functions buildings serve within their particular cultural temporal milieu.

Prerequisite: permission of director and of Fine Arts advisor

An introduction to the various aspects of museum/gallery administration, scholarship, and mechanics of organizing and mounting exhibitions. On-campus internships are available. Some off-campus internships can be arranged. Click here for more information about the Gallery Internship.

Outcome: Students will gain practical experience in the professional world and will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the various aspects of gallery/museum administration, scholarship, and exhibition preparation.

Prerequisite: FNAR 332, Visual Communication majors only

Visual Communication majors complete an internship providing an opportunity to use their visual and technical skills in a professional setting.

Outcome: Students work with others to develop and complete projects on a predetermined schedule; they get the opportunity to learn from professionals in the field, and find out how well they are doing as judged by the world outside the classroom.

Prerequisite: permission of chairperson

Visual Communication majors complete an internship providing an opportunity to use their visual and technical skills in a professional setting.

Outcome: Students work with others to develop and complete projects on a predetermined schedule; they get the opportunity to learn from professionals in the field and find out how well they are doing as judged by the world outside the classroom.

Prerequisites: FNAR 332, senior standing

This course perfects the practice and tools of visual communication through a series of advanced projects and an introduction to portfolio development.

Outcome: Students will be prepared to use their knowledge of visual communication, technical skills, and critical faculties to participate in their communities.

Prerequisite:  FNAR 233 

This course covers aspects of web and interactive design, including theory and common best practices. Industry standard software will be used. Strong emphasis will be placed on design principles, information hierarchy, and typography.

Outcome: Experience in the research, planning, and design of interactive communication.

Prerequisites: FNAR 200 and 201, or permission of instructor

An examination of theoretical, critical and methodological issues as related to Modern and Post-Modern art.  

Outcome:  Students will learn to recognize and apply a range of appropriate theoretical approaches and scholarly methods.

Prerequisite:  Permission of instructor 

The first half of the capstone experience for art history majors. In Senior Thesis I students develop and research a topic for an in-depth scholarly research paper.

Outcome: Students produce a thesis statement, detailed outline, and annotated bibliography appropriate to their topic. They develop an independent research project, synthesize and apply knowledge and skills learned in previous art history classes; apply ideas from scholarly sources; critically analyze and articulate in verbal and written form ideas relevant to their topic.

Prerequisite: FNAR 391 

The second half of the capstone experience for art history majors. In Senior Thesis II, students write an in-depth scholarly research paper. 

Outcome: Students produce a polished in-depth research paper.  They demonstrate the ability to synthesize and apply ideas from scholarly sources; formulate, develop, and defend a thesis; and critically analyze and articulate in verbal and written form the issues and ideas relevant to their topic.

Special topics in specific areas of study in studio art. 

Outcome:  Students will master topics in areas of studio art not offered elsewhere in the curriculum.

Special topics in specific areas of study in art history. 

Outcome:  Students will master topics in areas of art history not offered elsewhere in the curriculum.

Prerequisites: Completion of the most advanced studio course in the student’s FNAR concentration

A directed studies capstone experience course. Project proposal must be approved by the course advisor.

Outcome: Students demonstrate the ability to produce work that exemplifies the application and synthesis of the knowledge gained from the courses and experiences within their major.

Prerequisite: written permission of instructor and chairperson. 

Advanced students are afforded the opportunity to work on an in-depth project in the medium of his/her choice in a tutorial setting. The course is developed in consultation with a faculty advisor and is stated formally in a written contract of definition, goals, procedures and outcomes. 

Outcome: Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to produce a significant body of original artwork on a focused theme.