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Michelangelo. The Erythraean Sybil (detail), Sistine Chapel.The Art History major explores in chronological sequence the span of Western art within its proper cultural, philosophical, and historical context. Special courses on styles, issues, and individuals in Western and non-Western art give a broad overview of the complexity of human artistic expression. Field trips to Washington, D.C., Richmond, Baltimore, and New York City and lectures by visiting art historians keep students in touch with important art and recent developments in the field. In the internship program students gain valuable experience and career contacts by working in reputable museums and art institutions in the Washington and Richmond areas.

In addition, students have the opportunity to work in the College Galleries (Ridderhof Martin Gallery and duPont Gallery) as catalogers, researchers, administrative assistants, and exhibition installers. Exhibitions presented at the Galleries are brought in from museums around the country or are drawn from the permanent collection of over 5,000 artworks.