Minors

The Art History minor welcomes students who want to explore a concentrated study of the history of art. A minor in Art History provides students with a reservoir of artistic examples that will enrich their studio practice or serve as an interdisciplinary bridge between the visual and the performing arts. It also acts as a professional stepping stone for advanced study of art history and career opportunities in arts institutions.

Art history is a dynamic discipline that helps students understand how visual signs generate meaning, allows students to explore the social history of works of art and asks students to consider theoretical approaches that foster critical thinking. As an Art History minor, students will have the opportunity to learn about well-known and underrepresented artists from around the world in a variety of media. Art history courses allow for field trips to art museums, engagement with guest speakers and professional experience through internships. Students are able to shape their own paths based on their individual interests.

This flexible minor offers a launchpad for success in the business of art and the art of business. Centered on essential business skills for creative professions, the minor brings together a variety of collaborative experiences from across UArts, so students can explore and build professional networks.

At the heart of the minor’s approach to these skills are inclusion and positive social impact in the context of business best practices and innovation. Our faculty, who include diverse business leaders and professional artists, set the stage for this approach both in the classroom and beyond, to support future creative changemakers.

Pathway areas within the minor—branding, communications, entrepreneurship, finance and leadership—connect students to customizable opportunities aligned with their interests and professional goals.

UArts’ minor in Creative Writing develops and deepens students’ skills as storytellers and writers of poetry and fiction, as well as exploring genres such as creative nonfiction, playwriting, translation and graphic storytelling.

Some examples of courses included in the Creative Writing minor are workshops in both Poetry for Non-Majors and Short Story for Non-Majors, Creative Nonfiction, and Writing and Collaboration.

Get hands-on experience with the latest media production technologies, exposure to critical theoretical filmmaking concepts and an opportunity for personal creative exploration.

Some examples of courses included in the Film minor include Experimental Video, Writing for the Screen and Intro to Documentary. 

Students don’t need musical performance skills to enroll in the Music minor, which is for those who are interested in composing their own music or applying a knowledge of music to their major studies. Students complete required coursework in music theory and analysis of music forms and styles and can then select from a range of electives to tailor the minor to their personal interests. 

Some examples of courses included in the Music minor are Music Explorations, History of Rock Music and Business of Music. 

The minor in Photography provides professional training balanced with contemporary fine art creativity. Cutting-edge technology is combined with critical thinking, to sharpen creative flexibility and adaptation to a constantly changing field. A full range of media tools and technologies enable students to develop their own artistic vision and hone the skills necessary for a career in a creative industry.