Category: Philosophy

The purpose of this course is to take the student on an in-depth tour of some of the major philosophical issues concerning art. Students examine and criticize theories about the nature of art and about its role in human society. Students gain new insights about art, an understanding of philosophical method and especially, an appreciation for how and why art is a proper object of philosophical inquiry. No prior background in either philosophy or art is presupposed.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Take one 3.0 credit, 200 level course from one of the following subjects: DAH (Art History), DEN (English), DAS (Academic Studies), DVC (Visual Culture).

The course first examines such important theoretical questions in ethics as: Is morality objective or relativistic?, Are there real moral truths and are they knowable to us?, What, if anything, justifies our moral judgments?, Students also investigate normative theories including Utilitarianism, Egoism and other Consequentialist views along with the relationship of art to society.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Take one 3.0 credit, 200 level course from one of the following subjects: DAH (Art History), DEN (English), DAS (Academic Studies), DVC (Visual Culture).

What is the artist’s role and responsibility in an historic moment of critical transition in the environment and in society as a whole? This class creates the space for a thoughtful examination of various theories of ethics and justice as they apply to the visual arts in relation to the environment. Students will explore the writing of diverse theorists in justice and ethics and the practical response of artists to the rapidly changing world around them. Attention will be given to all popular mediums that provide the visual text in our evolving world.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Take one 3.0 credit, 200 level course from one of the following subjects: DAH (Art History), DEN (English), DAS (Academic Studies), DVC (Visual Culture).

Political and social movements are often represented in symbols and images. The course examines these symbols in art, film and literature and determine their impact in political action and attitudes.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Take one 3.0 credit, 200 level course from one of the following subjects: DAH (Art History), DEN (English), DAS (Academic Studies), DVC (Visual Culture).

The Special Project class is offered on an occasional basis, with course content specific to the area being explored.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites:

Independent Study is available to students who are at Junior or Senior level standing with a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or above. The student may receive approval to work in an area or on a project that is not otherwise offered or addressed in the regular curriculum. An Independent Study should include opportunities for individual student voice and provide a space for diverse perspectives. Students may receive credit toward graduation for no more than 6 credit hours. The student must submit to the chairperson of the department in which they wish to study, an Independent Study Proposal of 150 words (no less) of the student’s plan for study and her/his reason for choosing to study independently. Once the department chairperson provides approval and the instructor for the Independent Study is determined, the faculty member must write an Independent Study Syllabus with education goals, learning outcomes, meeting dates, course expectations, timelines, and due dates. Art Education candidates must pass DAE 490 with a grade of ‘C’ (2.00) or higher to qualify for certification.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: Take one 3.0 credit, 200 level course from one of the following subjects: DAH (Art History), DEN (English), DAS (Academic Studies), DVC (Visual Culture).