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History of Art and Architecture
The Bachelor of Arts in History of Art and Architecture at Brown University introduces students to the evolution of visual culture, built environments, and artistic expression across global civilizations. By studying paintings, sculptures, buildings, and urban forms from antiquity to the present, students gain insight into how societies articulate identity, power, and belief through material and spatial practices. The program emphasizes historical context, formal analysis, and theoretical interpretation, empowering students to decode visual and architectural languages from multiple perspectives.
Through a curriculum that bridges humanities and design disciplines, students explore diverse artistic traditions and architectural movements while developing strong skills in research, critical writing, and visual literacy. Field trips, access to Brown’s art collections, and partnerships with local museums enrich classroom learning with hands-on experience. Whether analyzing Roman temples, Islamic ornamentation, or contemporary installations, students are encouraged to examine how art and architecture shape—and are shaped by—social, political, and cultural forces.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: History of Art and Architecture
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Architecture
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Art and Architectural History
- Introduction to the History of Art and Architecture
- Global Perspectives in Visual Culture
- Drawing and Visual Analysis
- Writing Art History
Year 2 – Periods, Styles, and Movements
- Medieval and Renaissance Architecture
- Modern Art: 1850–Present
- Asian Art and Architecture
- Methods in Art Historical Research
Year 3 – Theory, Interpretation, and Cross-Disciplinary Study
- Architectural Theory and Urbanism
- Art and Power in the Colonial World
- Gender in Visual Representation
- Elective in Anthropology, History, or Religious Studies
Year 4 – Capstone and Independent Research
- Senior Seminar in Art Historical Theory
- Thesis Workshop or Independent Research Project
- Advanced Topics in Contemporary Architecture
- Curatorial Studies or Museum Internship
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program build careers in a variety of sectors where a deep understanding of visual culture, historical context, and design principles is essential. Many work in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions as curators, researchers, or educators. Others pursue roles in architecture firms, historic preservation, or urban planning, contributing their expertise to the development and conservation of cultural landscapes. The program also prepares students for graduate study in art history, architectural theory, or museum studies, and for careers in publishing, nonprofit arts management, or heritage tourism. The ability to interpret images and spaces critically gives graduates a versatile skill set relevant to both academic and applied professions.
Why Choose This Program
Brown University’s History of Art and Architecture program combines rigorous historical inquiry, visual analysis, and interdisciplinary flexibility to offer students a rich educational experience. The program's small class sizes promote deep engagement with faculty and peers, while the university’s open curriculum allows students to connect their art historical interests with subjects like philosophy, politics, or environmental studies. Students benefit from access to digital archives, conservation labs, and museum collections that enhance research and creativity. Whether planning a future in the arts, architecture, or academia, students graduate with the tools to interpret and shape the world through its visual and spatial legacies.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
