Art History combines a close study of art and visual culture with historical investigation and analysis. Students gain an understanding of the development of art in cultures around the world and throughout time, as well as an appreciation for the complex ways in which art is connected with broader social and cultural concerns. As an academic discipline, Art History approaches art as a uniquely rich artifact for the understanding of human history. Core courses in the Art History program cover the history of art in the Western world, from prehistory to the present, and provide instruction in the fundamentals of drawing. Electives offer students the opportunity to explore art outside the Western tradition, go deeper in their study of a particular period of art, and develop their hands-on understanding of the materials and techniques of art-making. Art History courses build skills in visual analysis and interpretation, critical thinking, research, writing, and the formal presentation of ideas. A degree in Art History supports a wide range of careers both within and outside the art world. Art History students find success in education, art education, gallery and museum work, library and information sciences, marketing, public relations, writing, graphic design, web and media design, among other fields.

The Associate in Arts in Art History for Transfer (AA-T in Art History) is intended for students who plan to complete a bachelor’s degree in Art History or Art with an Emphasis or Option in Art History or a “similar” major at a CSU campus. Each CSU campus determines which of the degrees it offers are “similar” and can be completed with the preparation included in the AA-T in Art History within 60 units once a student transfers, so which majors are “similar” varies from CSU to CSU. For a current list of what majors (and what options or areas of emphasis within that major) have been designated as “similar” to this degree at each CSU campus, please refer to CSU’s Associate Degree for Transfer Major and Campus Search webpage and seek guidance from an Oxnard College counselor. Students completing this degree are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major. The AA-T in Art History may not be the best option for students intending to transfer to a particular CSU campus or to a college or university that is not part of the CSU system.

To earn an AA-T in Art History degree, students must

1. Complete a minimum of 60 CSU-transferable semester units including both of the following:
   1. Certified completion of the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education – Breadth (CSU GE-Breadth) requirements.
   2. A minimum of 18 semester units in the Art History major as listed in the Oxnard College catalog.
2. Obtain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 in all CSU-transferable coursework. While a minimum of 2.0 is required for admission, some majors may require a higher GPA. Please consult with a counselor for more information.
3. Obtain a grade of “C” or better or “P” in all courses required in the major. Even though a "pass-no-pass" is allowed (Title 5 § 55063), it is highly recommended that students complete their major courses with a letter grade.
4. Complete requirements in residency. For students in the Ventura County Community College District, a minimum of 12 units must be completed within the district.   

Students transferring to a CSU campus that accepts the AA-T in Art History degree will be required to complete no more than 60 units after transfer to earn a bachelor’s degree. This degree may not necessarily be the best option for students intending to transfer to a particular CSU campus or to a university or college that is not part of the CSU system. Students should consult with a counselor when planning to complete the degree for more information on university admission and transfer requirements.

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• Identify artworks from major periods of Western history and from at least one other cultural tradition.
• Analyze artworks in relationship to their historical context and the broader social and cultural concerns of their time.
• Demonstrate familiarity with the fundamental concepts and methods of art historical investigation.
• Demonstrate ability in art historical research, including locating and using sources correctly.
• Demonstrate ability in the application of logic and critical thinking in written or oral exposition of art historical subject matter.