Mission

The Minor in Islamic Art and Architecture exposes students of the Architecture and Design program to the artistic and architectural heritage of the Islamic world, thus filling a gap in the current educational programs of architects and designers working in the Arab world. In addition, the minor offers a number of electives to non-major students who may wish to broaden their understanding of this important aspect of the culture of the region.

Program Objectives

The Minor in Islamic Art and Architecture seeks to

1. introduce students to the rich traditions of Islamic Art and Architecture, and
2. prepare students to respond better to the challenges of practice in the Islamic world.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the in Islamic Art and Architecture, students will acquire

1. an understanding of the role and breadth of the arts in the various Islamic cultures,
2. basic knowledge of the historic development of Islamic art and architecture in the Islamic world, and the major highlights of these developments, and
3. basic analytical and interpretative skills in examining Islamic art traditions, and in formulating contemporary interpretations of these rich traditions.

Curriculum

A total of 18 credits are required to complete the minor, as per the following:

• Required Courses (14 cr)
• Elective Courses (4 cr)

Required Courses (14 cr)

• ARC375 Introduction to Islamic Art (3 cr)
• ARC376 Introduction to Islamic Architecture (3 cr)
• ARC405 Design Workshop (1 cr)
• ARC435 Design Studio (4 cr)
• ARC595 International Studio (3 cr)

Elective Courses (4 cr)

• ARC475 Islamic Architecture in the Age of Empires (2 cr)
• ARC476 Art and Architecture of the Mamluks (2 cr)
• ARC477 Art and Architecture of the Umayyads (2 cr)
• ARC478 The Decorative Arts of Islam (2 cr)