Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts in Art History and Visual Culture

The Master of Arts in Art History and Visual Culture offers a comprehensive education in visual culture within a dynamic department that includes a strong M.F.A. program. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the program prepares students for a Ph.D. or a graduate library degree with specialization in art history.

Program Overview

The program provides training for a variety of positions, including:

• Community college professor
• Image researcher
• Museum curator
• Arts administrator
• Conservator
• Visual resources librarian The program is especially strong in:
  • Modern and contemporary art
  • Architecture and design
  • The art of the Renaissance

Course Offerings

The program features a variety of special-topic courses, such as:

• Modern Architecture
• Textile History
• Modern Craft and New Media Courses are regularly taught in coordination with local art institutions.

Academic Activities

Throughout the academic year, the program hosts a number of activities, including:

• The Tuesday Night Lecture Series
• A range of exhibitions in the Thompson Gallery

Research Areas

Current research areas of MA candidates include:

• Modern feminist art and architecture (Elaine Chien)
• Contemporary Latin American feminist art (Rosie Guiterrez)
• Early modern feminist art (Mary Levier)
• Cambodian diaspora art (Angela Lim)
• Contemporary art (Nicole Rudolph-Vallerga, Heather Sanchez, Vickie Simms)
• Contemporary Chicanx art and public art (Mathew Skurdahl)
• Contemporary game design (Eric Williamson)

Program Details

The program is coordinated by the Art History and Visual Culture Area Coordinator and Graduate Coordinator, Prof. Sarah Mills.