The College of Humanities and Social Sciences and The Smithsonian Associates program of the Smithsonian Institution will jointly offer a MA in the history of decorative arts, the only degree program of its kind in the commonwealth of Virginia.
The new degree will be first offered fall 2011, pending final approval.
The training offered in this 48-credit degree provides a balance between connoisseurship and study of the history, function, and aesthetic development of objects. It offers European- and American-based studies enhanced with globally-focused coursework.
The program accepts students for fall and spring, and students can enroll full time or part time. Most courses are held at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., and some on the Fairfax campus of George Mason University. Summer opportunities include study abroad and domestic and international internships.
Courses are taught by full-time faculty from Mason and many expert practioners working in the decorative arts at museums, galleries, and universities.
November 01, 2010