BA/BS in Cultural History of the Arts

This innovative flexible degree allows students to study the criticism and history of art, music, film, and theater across the university (film history, for instance, is taught in many departments and this degree lets you delve into those rich offerings). We explore the important ways cultural history both reflects and shapes society, and by incorporating different histories of the arts these connections can be made even deeper and more nuanced ways.

Aspiring cultural historians not only acquire a comprehensive understanding of cultural expression but also develop analytical and critical thinking skills. They learn to interpret primary sources, examine cultural artifacts, and engage with diverse perspectives to construct nuanced narratives that capture the complexity of human societies. The program fosters an appreciation for cultural diversity and equips graduates with the ability to navigate the globalized world with sensitivity and understanding.

This is a degree that can be completed online, in person, or any combination of the two.

Requirements

Please see the PSU Bulletin for Cultural History degree requirements for prior terms, but beginning Fall 2024 here's what you should take to major in Cultural History:

The B.A. or B.S. in Cultural History requires 60 credit hours total, of which:

• A minimum of 52 credit hours need to be upper-level courses (300-level or higher)
• 20 credit hours need to be in a focus area of Art History, Music History, or Theater History

ArH 401 Advanced Research Workshop and additional research-intensive courses such as art history seminars (ArH 407 and ArH 449) are strongly recommended for all students in this program and would be taken as part of the upper-division course requirement.

Course Offerings

Any course in cultural history from across our university that applies to a career in nonprofit administration that interests you, especially if it is an upper-level course, can potentially be applied to this major, so feel free to reach out to the Cultural History of the Arts program coordinator with any questions. The list below includes courses that automatically apply to the Cultural History major, but consider it just a starting point--this major is meant to be customized to your goals.

A few details to also consider: note that some upper-level courses have prerequisites when planning your coursework. Additionally, you will not be able to use any course for your major and then also use the same course towards your University Studies cluster requirement.