Art history provides the background for student art production. By learning about what has been produced in the past, students achieve an understanding of techniques, terminology, patronage, art markets and exhibition experiences. Moreover, students gain experience in talking and writing about art so that they may communicate their own artistic ideas. In art history, the visual is articulated verbally.

Art history is an academic discipline within the Visual Arts. One course in art history is required each academic year. The Survey of Western Art is the first year offering which provides an overview of developments in the visual arts from the cave paintings to the twentieth century. In the second year, Twentieth Century Art History focuses on individual artists, artistic movements and the changing definition of art. For the third year, the course is Special Topics in Art History. This course offers the opportunity to explore in depth various historical periods, artists, theories and ideas; the emphasis changes each time Special Topics is offered. The History of Canadian Art is the fourth year course and focuses on providing an overview of the Canadian art scene in the past and examines current trends.