A graphic image of a singer, videographer, lighting designer, drawer and dancer with red, black and grey hues

Critical Studies

On This Page

Critical Studies is where creative practice and critical reflection intersect. Our experiences connect you with other students from all fields of study to enrich your artistic practices and professional development. An extensive range of interdisciplinary courses encourage you to follow your curiosity as you deepen your communication, research and collaboration skills. Critical Studies is home to the UArts business minor, a launchpad for success in the business of art and art of business.

About the Curriculum 

     
   

Critical Dialogues (9 credits)

Critical Dialogues (CRIT) courses offer collaborative spaces for exploring topics central to creative endeavors and contemporary society.

Critical Studies Electives (15-18 credits – varies by major)

These electives encourage you to follow your curiosity and choose your own adventure outside your major. Learn a new language, explore our robust science offerings like psychology, build your business skill sets, go on a study away trip and more.

Writing (6-12 credits)

Artists write — and artists in the 21st century need to write well. Our WRIT classes will help you develop your ability to communicate effectively while expanding your critical and creative thinking horizons. We offer a range of customized support options designed to help your writing and ideas shine.

Meet Your Faculty


Diverse researchers, artists and business leaders will support your growth and goals. Click the images below to meet some faculty.

Emily Mattingly wearing glasses in the UArts Critical Studies Program office.
Emily Mattingly

Anna Beresin
Anna Beresin

Dr. Abdelmagid wears glasses and a blue t-shirt while sitting outdoors on a park bench in the shade. Behind him are out of focus green shrubs.
Yakein Abdelmagid

A closeup of Jonathan Gonzalez looking away from the camera contemplatively and wearing a black shirt and sitting in front of greenery
Jonathan González

Business Minor

 

This flexible minor offers a launchpad for success in the business of art and the art of business. Centered on essential business skills for creative professions, the minor brings together a variety of collaborative experiences from across UArts so students can explore and build professional networks.

At the heart of the minor’s approach to these skills: inclusion and positive social impact in the context of business best practices and innovation. Our faculty, who include diverse business leaders and professional artists, set the stage for this approach both in the classroom and beyond to support future creative changemakers.

Pathway areas within the minor – branding, communications, entrepreneurship, finance, and leadership – connect students to customizable opportunities aligned with their interests and professional goals.

Select one of the following courses:

And choose from diverse course options here. Some highlights of options: