Art and Art History

Office: Shwayder Art Building, Room 132
Mail Code: 2121 E. Asbury Ave. Denver, CO 80208
Phone: 303-871-2846
Email: saah-interest@du.edu
Web Site: http://www.du.edu/art

The School of Art and Art History (SAAH) teaches the technical processes of art, methods of analyzing and criticizing visual culture and the diverse histories of art. We educate students to think critically and conceptually, to express themselves creatively, to articulate their ideas clearly and to make significant contributions to the society in which they live. Our faculty promote these qualities through their creative activity, scholarship and public service.

The School of Art and Art History grants the following degrees:

  • Bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degrees in studio art. Both studio degrees include exposure to ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture.
  • Bachelor of fine arts degree in pre-art conservation.
  • Bachelor of arts and master of arts (MA) degrees in art history (with an option of a museum studies concentration at the graduate level). 
  • There are two 4+1 options to allow motivated students to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree in five years. In art history, a BA and MA in art history/museum studies is available. In studio studies, a BA or a BFA in studio art/MA in curriculum and instruction with certification to teach K–12 art is offered in partnership with the Morgridge College of Education.

Students seeking to transfer to the University of Denver with admission to SAAH are encouraged to contact the School with questions about degree programs and transfer credit options prior to applying. If admitted to the University and SAAH, all students enter as a BA in either art history or studio, depending on their interest. Students interested in pursuing a BFA in studio art or pre-art conservation apply under the guidance of a faculty member once enrolled in SAAH. Upon admission to SAAH for the fall quarter, students will be provided with instructions on how to submit a portfolio for merit-based scholarship consideration. Flexible options to minor in SAAH are also available.