Art history courses explore developments in artistic expression within the context of culture and historic periods. Such courses enable students to learn how renowned artist's contributions result from and affect societal changes throughout history. Students develop skills in context-based art criticism and learn to evaluate the judgments of professional art critics on a particular piece of work. Art history courses are often a basic requirement for art majors regardless of specialization.
Intended for students who perform well in the studio, art education courses teach artists how to share their creativity with others by becoming teachers. These courses integrate principles learned in educational theory classes with techniques mastered in various sub-fields of studio art. Art education students learn to encourage artistic expression in children at all primary and secondary education levels. In most programs, students complete a teaching practicum before graduation.
Studio art encompasses a plethora of mediums including both two-dimensional and three-dimensional art forms. Students explore many different studio art courses, choosing from painting, sculpture, printmaking, calligraphy, drawing, ceramics and more. Students may choose to focus within a specific area, taking both basic and advanced courses to refine individual technique. Studio art students may be encouraged to submit completed work for art show consideration and to develop professional portfolios.
Art therapy courses develop students' abilities to use artistic expression as a means of assisting others' emotional development. Art therapy as a major, offers the student an opportunity to train in both human services and humanities. This sub-field of art teaches students to value the feelings which inspire creative works rather than focusing solely on technique. Students learn therapeutic skills and complete practical applications, which involve working with individual clients and leading art therapy groups.