Art History and Visual Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Visual Studies at the University of Victoria offers students an in-depth exploration of the development, context, and significance of visual arts across different periods and cultures. This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous academic coursework with opportunities for experiential learning, enabling students to critically analyze artworks, understand historical and cultural narratives, and appreciate the diverse ways in which images and visual culture shape human experience. Throughout the program, students examine a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, and digital media, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of visual culture from ancient to contemporary times. Emphasizing both theoretical and practical approaches, the curriculum encourages students to engage with art history through research, curatorial practices, and visual analysis, preparing them for careers in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, education, and media. Additionally, the program promotes global awareness by addressing art's role within different societies and cultural contexts, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in the visual arts. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, access to vast collections, and opportunities for internships and fieldwork. The Art History and Visual Studies program at UVic aims to develop critical thinkers and culturally literate individuals who can interpret and appreciate the visual world with insight and sensitivity. With a strong foundation in analytical skills, historical knowledge, and cultural understanding, graduates are well-equipped to pursue further study or enter various professional fields where visual literacy and cultural awareness are essential.

• Research Paper
• Colloquium in Theories and Practices
• Workshop in Art Historical Writing
• History in Art
• Reading German
• French Words in Context
• Italian for Reading Knowledge

Requirements

• You must have earned the equivalent of a "B" average over the last two years (or equivalent of 30 UVic units) of your degree to be considered.
• Diploma Specialist
• Practica, non-graded (pass-fail) courses, credit granted on the basis of life or work experience, or credit earned at institutions not recognized by the university will not be used in determining an applicant's grade point average or units completed.
• Any courses used in the calculation of the entering average cannot be used as credit toward a graduate degree program.
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
  For the internet-based TOEFL (IBT), we require a minimum of 90 with the following minimum section requirements: Listening 20; Speaking 20; Reading 20; Writing 20. The minimum acceptable TOEFL score is 575 on the paper-based test. Individual departments may set a higher standard. This requirement will not be waived.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
  A minimum Overall Band Score of 6.5, with no score of less than 6.0 on each individual component on the Academic IELTS is required. Note than any IELTS test, other than the Academic test, will not be accepted.
• Transcripts

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Bursaries
• UVic awards and fellowships
• University of Victoria Graduate Donor Awards
• Canada Graduate Scholarship
• Mackenzie King Memorial Scholarships

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Visual Studies at the University of Victoria offers students a comprehensive education in understanding the development, perception, and critique of visual culture from various historical periods and geographical regions. The program emphasizes both historical context and theoretical approaches, enabling students to analyze and interpret visual material ranging from ancient artworks to contemporary media. Coursework typically includes the study of Western and non-Western art, the history of specific art movements, and the evolution of visual forms across different societies. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, visual literacy, and research capabilities through rigorous academic activities such as essays, presentations, and museum visits. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in museums, galleries, cultural organizations, education, and academia, as well as for further graduate study. In addition to foundational courses, students have opportunities to specialize in areas such as Asian, Indigenous, European, or Contemporary art. The university fosters a vibrant intellectual community with access to art collections, galleries, and academic resources to enrich learning. Interdisciplinary approaches and the integration of new media technologies are also emphasized, ensuring that students are well-equipped to engage with evolving visual cultures. The faculty includes experienced scholars and curators dedicated to mentoring students through individual research projects and internships. The program duration is typically four years for a full-time student, with flexible options to take electives or minors in related fields such as Anthropology, History, or Media Studies. Upon graduation, students possess a strong foundation for careers involving visual analysis, cultural heritage, and arts administration. The university's commitment to inclusive education and diverse perspectives is reflected in its curricula and student support services. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Visual Studies provides a rich academic environment for understanding the significance of visual culture in society and developing skills applicable in a broad range of professional contexts.