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Associate in Arts for Transfer Degree
Art History

The Associate in Arts in Art History for Transfer (AA-T) Degree is intended to meet the lower division requirements for Art History majors or Art majors with a concentration in Art History (or similar majors) at a CSU campus that offers an Art or Art History baccalaureate degree.

This degree is designed for students interested in an introduction to the discipline and methodologies of art history. The coursework will provide students with an understanding of the artistic contributions of diverse cultures and regions throughout time, of the relationship between works of art and the contexts in which they were produced, and of the ways in which works of art communicate ideas and meaning visually. Students will examine theories of interpretation and iconography, along with issues of patronage, provenance, and conservation/restoration.  Students will gain critical thinking skills and a foundational knowledge of art history that will prepare them for transfer to four-year institutions and for arts and humanities-related careers.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

Apply Now!


Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2023-2024 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
Select sample path/map:
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: ART 105 / ART 105H (CSU GE C1)M3.0
ART 105 - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 105H - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art and/or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities. This course is designed for those who meet Honors Program requirements.

ART 130 - Freehand Drawing IM3.0
ART 130 - Freehand Drawing I (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course for art and non-art majors interested in developing basic drawing skills is an introduction to observational drawing and composition. In the course, students develop the ability to perceive and define shape, contour, volume, space, and light using a variety of drawing media and subject matter. Emphasis is on clarity of observation and the ability to order and translate 3D form and space into 2D drawings.

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (CSU GE A2)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

CSU GE E - Lifelong Learning/Self DevelopmentGE3.0

Select one:
ANTH 110
HUSR 123
CD 106
EGSS 130
KIN 159 (F'21), 170 (F'21), 190 (F'21), 191, 192, 196
COUN 101 (F’11), 104, 151 (F’98)
NUTR 110
DD 214 (see counselor for details)
PHIL 122
PSY 112, 121
EDEV 101 (F’15), 151
SOC 105, 110

CSU ElectiveEL3.0

Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:15.5 
2nd Semester
Select one: ART 120 / ART 121 / ART 135 / ART 140 / ART 230 / PHTO 130 M3.0
Notes:
ART 120 is recommended.

ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational, first semester course and is open to any student interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all visual media and fulfills a general education requirement in Art. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, and includes the study of the basic elements of line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, and written assignments.

ART 121 - Three Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory: ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational first semester art course and is open to all students interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all three dimensional media. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to three-dimensional art, and includes the basic elements and principles of three-dimensional design. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture, slide and video presentations, and studio projects using a variety of tools and written assignments.

ART 135 - Beginning Painting (3.0 units)

Advisory:ART 130
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a first semester course for art and non-art majors interested in developing basic painting skills. The course explores both traditional and contemporary painting techniques while stressing an ability to perceive and define shape, contour, volume, texture, space, and light using acrylic or oil painting media. Emphasis is on learning the techniques of painting, understanding the use of color, strengthening observation and rendering skills, while providing an understanding of the historical and cultural development of painting in human expression and creativity. Students are advised to have some drawing skills before taking this class.

ART 140 - Ceramics I (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is an introductory course open to all art and non-art majors interested in learning basic skills in ceramics using the potter’s wheel. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lectures, power point, vocabulary lists and video presentations. This course covers beginning problems of centering, throwing and shaping various functional and non-functional pottery. Students will be introduced to the process of glazing and basic firing techniques. This course emphasizes exploring personal and cultural expression in the ceramic media. Evaluation will be based on using a variety of tools and writing assignments.

ART 230 - Beginning Life Drawing (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ART 130
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This is a first semester course for art, animation, and non-art majors interested in developing the basic drawing skills of representing the human figure. As an introduction to observational figure drawing and composition, students will develop the ability to perceive and define the anatomy and structural organization of the human form in terms of expressive design and creative use of drawing media.

PHTO 130 - Beginning Photography (3.0 units)

Advisory:ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who wish to study the basic technical and conceptual approaches to contemporary photography. Traditional black and white photography techniques are explored, with special emphasis on the basic use of the 35 mm camera and enlarger as well as the processing of black-and-white film and printing paper. Students are required to provide their own 35 mm camera with manual controls.

Select one: ART 106 / ART 106H M3.0
ART 106 - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 106H - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements, and is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

Select one: MATH 150 / FIN 101 (CSU GE B4)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  FIN 101, MATH 130/H, MATH 140, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 175, MATH 180, MATH 190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students will learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning.

CSU GE A1 - Oral CommunicationGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one: SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140

Total Semester Units:12.0 
Summer 1
CSU GE B2 - Biological SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ANTH 101, 101H, 101L*
BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 112*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*
BIOT 100*; PSY 210, 210H
BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 112*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*
BIOT 100; PSY 210, 210H

CSU ElectiveEL3.0

Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:6.0† 
3rd Semester
Select one: ART 104 / ART 107 / ART 108 (CSU GE C1 or C2)M3.0
ART 104 - Art of the Ancient Americas (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides a study of the indigenous arts of Mexico, Andean South America, and Central America, from civilizations including the Olmec, Maya, Aztec, Inca, Moche, Chavin de Huantar, and Nazca. Art of representative native tribes of the territory now encompassed by the United States and Canada will be comparatively examined. Works of art and architecture will be presented in relation to the various religious beliefs, political/ economic systems, and cultural practices of the ancient Americas. Art historical and archaeological methodologies relating to the understanding and interpretation of non-Western art will be discussed. This course is appropriate for students pursuing a degree in art or art history and/or students with an interest in American studies and Latin American studies.

ART 107 - The Art of Asia (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course examines the artistic traditions of prehistoric to modern Asia in relation to their cultural, philosophical, and religious influences. The art and architecture of Central Asia (India, China, Korea, and Japan) will be emphasized. Examples from Southeast Asia, Pakistan, Tibet, and Nepal will also be discussed. This course is appropriate for all students interested in art and culture and for those seeking to fulfill general education requirements for Fine Arts and Humanities, as well as all Studio Art majors.

ART 108 - The Art of Mexico (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is a survey of the art and architecture of Mexico including PreColumbian, Viceregal (Colonial) and Modern 19th and 20th centuries. Chicano art will also be examined in relation to its Mexican antecedents. Art 108 is appropriate for all students interested in art and culture and for those seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities, as well as all studio art and art history majors.

Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (CSU GE D)GE3.0
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments.

POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program.

CSU GE F - Ethnic StudiesGE3.0

Notes:
Students who started at Rio Hondo College beginning in Fall 2021 or later and returning students who have not maintained continuous enrollment will be required to complete a course in Area F. Students who started at Rio Hondo College prior to Fall 2021 and have maintained continuous enrollment will not be required to complete a course in Area F (instead, they will complete 9 units from at least two disciplines in Area D). Please see a counselor for details.

Select one:
CHST 101
EGSS 110

CSU GE A3 - Critical ThinkingGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ENGL 201, 201H; PHIL 110, 110H, 112, 112H, 115; READ 101; SPCH 140

Total Semester Units:12.0† 
4th Semester
Select one: ART 109 / ART 112 / ART 113 / ART 115 / ART 120 / ART 121 M3.0
ART 109 - History of American Art (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course includes a study of American art and architecture from the colonial period to the early 20th century. The focus is on the art of the United States, with a close examination of the country's artistic exchanges with Canada, Mexico, and South America. This course is appropriate for students with an interest in American studies, Latin American studies,those seeking to fulfill the general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities, the AA Degree in General Studies in Arts and Human Expression and/or the AA-T Degree in Art History.

ART 112 - Visual Art in the Modern Era (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is a survey of developments in art and architecture from the early 19th through the 20th century, and into the 21st. From Neoclassicism and Romanticism through Postmodernism and contemporary art, visual art movements are discussed in relation to stylistic trends, philosophical influences, innovations in technology, and other historical and social contexts. The roles played by the artist, critic, and consumer in shaping these movements are examined, as well as visual art’s impact upon society in the Modern era. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Art History and/or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Arts.

ART 113 - The History of Photography (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This lecture course examines the history of photography from its invention in the 1830s to the present. The technological development, social role, and aesthetic possibilities of photography will be discussed in relation to major historical, art historical, cultural, and political influences. This course is appropriate for all students interested in photography, art, and art history and culture and for those seeking to fulfill the general education requirement for Fine Arts and Humanities, as well as Studio Art majors and Art History majors.

ART 115 - The Art of Film (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This introductory course explores film as an art form, its basic components, and its relation to the styles and movements of other visual arts forms. An understanding of cinematic language is emphasized by focusing upon film's manipulation of time and space, its use of visual metaphors, montages, and explicit/implicit messages. The collaborative nature of filmmaking is studied by examining the role of cinematography, lighting, film editing, visual effects, art direction, and the use of sound and music to enhance the script and create style. Through discussion and written assignments, students develop the ability to analyze the impact of films viewed both in and out of class. This course is appropriate for any student interested in film, art, media studies, or culture.

ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational, first semester course and is open to any student interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all visual media and fulfills a general education requirement in Art. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, and includes the study of the basic elements of line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, and written assignments.

ART 121 - Three Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory: ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational first semester art course and is open to all students interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all three dimensional media. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to three-dimensional art, and includes the basic elements and principles of three-dimensional design. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture, slide and video presentations, and studio projects using a variety of tools and written assignments.

US HISTORY (CSU GE D)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170.

CSU GE B1 - Physical SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ASTR 110, 110H, 112*, 137*
CHEM 110*, 120*,130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150, 151*, 152, 152L*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*
CHEM 110*, 120*,130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150,151*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

CSU GE B3 - Lab ScienceGE1.0

Select one if lab has not been completed in CSU B1 or B2.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'

CSU GE C2 - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:  
ANTH 104
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202
CHIN 101, 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
EGSS 130
ENGL 126, 131
FR 101, 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122,131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 101, 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114,114H, 117,117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H, 150
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202
SPCH 130, 132

CSU ElectiveEL3.0

Select a course that transfers to CSU. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:16.0† 
Total Units for Art History AA-T program (Transfer to CSU)61.5† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: ART 105 / ART 105H (IGETC C1)M3.0
ART 105 - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 105H - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art and/or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities. This course is designed for those who meet Honors Program requirements.

ART 130 - Freehand Drawing IM3.0
ART 130 - Freehand Drawing I (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course for art and non-art majors interested in developing basic drawing skills is an introduction to observational drawing and composition. In the course, students develop the ability to perceive and define shape, contour, volume, space, and light using a variety of drawing media and subject matter. Emphasis is on clarity of observation and the ability to order and translate 3D form and space into 2D drawings.

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (IGETC 1A)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

IGETC 6 - Foreign Language (UC ONLY)GE4.5
Notes:
** take an elective class if plan to go to a CSU

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
Courses in this area that also appear in IGETC 3B Humanities may be counted toward both areas.

Proficiency equivalent to two years of high school study in the same language or select one:
ASL 101, 102, 201;
CHIN 101, 102;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
JAPN 101, 102;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202
There are additional ways to satisfy the Language Other than English Requirement. Please see a counselor for advisement.

Total Semester Units:14.0 
2nd Semester
Select one: ART 120 / ART 121 / ART 135 / ART 140 / ART 230 / PHTO 130 M3.0
Notes:
ART 120 is recommended.

ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational, first semester course and is open to any student interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all visual media and fulfills a general education requirement in Art. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, and includes the study of the basic elements of line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, and written assignments.

ART 121 - Three Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory: ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational first semester art course and is open to all students interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all three dimensional media. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to three-dimensional art, and includes the basic elements and principles of three-dimensional design. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture, slide and video presentations, and studio projects using a variety of tools and written assignments.

ART 135 - Beginning Painting (3.0 units)

Advisory:ART 130
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a first semester course for art and non-art majors interested in developing basic painting skills. The course explores both traditional and contemporary painting techniques while stressing an ability to perceive and define shape, contour, volume, texture, space, and light using acrylic or oil painting media. Emphasis is on learning the techniques of painting, understanding the use of color, strengthening observation and rendering skills, while providing an understanding of the historical and cultural development of painting in human expression and creativity. Students are advised to have some drawing skills before taking this class.

ART 140 - Ceramics I (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is an introductory course open to all art and non-art majors interested in learning basic skills in ceramics using the potter’s wheel. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lectures, power point, vocabulary lists and video presentations. This course covers beginning problems of centering, throwing and shaping various functional and non-functional pottery. Students will be introduced to the process of glazing and basic firing techniques. This course emphasizes exploring personal and cultural expression in the ceramic media. Evaluation will be based on using a variety of tools and writing assignments.

ART 230 - Beginning Life Drawing (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ART 130
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This is a first semester course for art, animation, and non-art majors interested in developing the basic drawing skills of representing the human figure. As an introduction to observational figure drawing and composition, students will develop the ability to perceive and define the anatomy and structural organization of the human form in terms of expressive design and creative use of drawing media.

PHTO 130 - Beginning Photography (3.0 units)

Advisory:ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who wish to study the basic technical and conceptual approaches to contemporary photography. Traditional black and white photography techniques are explored, with special emphasis on the basic use of the 35 mm camera and enlarger as well as the processing of black-and-white film and printing paper. Students are required to provide their own 35 mm camera with manual controls.

Select one: ART 106 / ART 106H M3.0
ART 106 - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 106H - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements, and is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (IGETC 2)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  MATH 130/H, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 180, MATH190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

IGETC 1C - Oral Communication (CSU Only)GE3.0
Notes:
take an elective class if plan to go to a UC

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140

Total Semester Units:12.0 
Summer 1
IGETC 5B - Biological SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':

Select one:
ANTH 101, 101H, 101L*; BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 226*;
PSY 210, 210H.

IGETC 5C - Lab ScienceGE1.0

Select one if lab has not been completed in IGETC 5A or 5B.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':
ANTH 101L*;
ASTR 112*;
BIOL 101*, 105L*, 111L*, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 226*;
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*;
GEOG 101L*;
GEOL 151*;
PHY 120*,150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

Total Semester Units:4.0† 
3rd Semester
Select one: ART 104 / ART 107 / ART 108 (IGETC C1 or C2)M3.0
ART 104 - Art of the Ancient Americas (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides a study of the indigenous arts of Mexico, Andean South America, and Central America, from civilizations including the Olmec, Maya, Aztec, Inca, Moche, Chavin de Huantar, and Nazca. Art of representative native tribes of the territory now encompassed by the United States and Canada will be comparatively examined. Works of art and architecture will be presented in relation to the various religious beliefs, political/ economic systems, and cultural practices of the ancient Americas. Art historical and archaeological methodologies relating to the understanding and interpretation of non-Western art will be discussed. This course is appropriate for students pursuing a degree in art or art history and/or students with an interest in American studies and Latin American studies.

ART 107 - The Art of Asia (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course examines the artistic traditions of prehistoric to modern Asia in relation to their cultural, philosophical, and religious influences. The art and architecture of Central Asia (India, China, Korea, and Japan) will be emphasized. Examples from Southeast Asia, Pakistan, Tibet, and Nepal will also be discussed. This course is appropriate for all students interested in art and culture and for those seeking to fulfill general education requirements for Fine Arts and Humanities, as well as all Studio Art majors.

ART 108 - The Art of Mexico (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is a survey of the art and architecture of Mexico including PreColumbian, Viceregal (Colonial) and Modern 19th and 20th centuries. Chicano art will also be examined in relation to its Mexican antecedents. Art 108 is appropriate for all students interested in art and culture and for those seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities, as well as all studio art and art history majors.

Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (IGETC 4)GE3.0
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments.

POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program.

IGETC 1B - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ENGL 201, 201H
PHIL 110, 110H

UC ElectiveEL3.0

Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:12.0† 
4th Semester
Select one: ART 109 / ART 112 / ART 113 / ART 115 / ART 120 / ART 121 M3.0
ART 109 - History of American Art (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course includes a study of American art and architecture from the colonial period to the early 20th century. The focus is on the art of the United States, with a close examination of the country's artistic exchanges with Canada, Mexico, and South America. This course is appropriate for students with an interest in American studies, Latin American studies,those seeking to fulfill the general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities, the AA Degree in General Studies in Arts and Human Expression and/or the AA-T Degree in Art History.

ART 112 - Visual Art in the Modern Era (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is a survey of developments in art and architecture from the early 19th through the 20th century, and into the 21st. From Neoclassicism and Romanticism through Postmodernism and contemporary art, visual art movements are discussed in relation to stylistic trends, philosophical influences, innovations in technology, and other historical and social contexts. The roles played by the artist, critic, and consumer in shaping these movements are examined, as well as visual art’s impact upon society in the Modern era. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Art History and/or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Arts.

ART 113 - The History of Photography (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This lecture course examines the history of photography from its invention in the 1830s to the present. The technological development, social role, and aesthetic possibilities of photography will be discussed in relation to major historical, art historical, cultural, and political influences. This course is appropriate for all students interested in photography, art, and art history and culture and for those seeking to fulfill the general education requirement for Fine Arts and Humanities, as well as Studio Art majors and Art History majors.

ART 115 - The Art of Film (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This introductory course explores film as an art form, its basic components, and its relation to the styles and movements of other visual arts forms. An understanding of cinematic language is emphasized by focusing upon film's manipulation of time and space, its use of visual metaphors, montages, and explicit/implicit messages. The collaborative nature of filmmaking is studied by examining the role of cinematography, lighting, film editing, visual effects, art direction, and the use of sound and music to enhance the script and create style. Through discussion and written assignments, students develop the ability to analyze the impact of films viewed both in and out of class. This course is appropriate for any student interested in film, art, media studies, or culture.

ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational, first semester course and is open to any student interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all visual media and fulfills a general education requirement in Art. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, and includes the study of the basic elements of line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, and written assignments.

ART 121 - Three Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory: ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational first semester art course and is open to all students interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all three dimensional media. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to three-dimensional art, and includes the basic elements and principles of three-dimensional design. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture, slide and video presentations, and studio projects using a variety of tools and written assignments.

US HISTORY (IGETC 4)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170.

IGETC 5A - Physical SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ASTR 110, 110H, 112*, 137*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150, 151*, 152, 152L*
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

IGETC 3B - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ANTH 104
ASL 124, 201
CHIN 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H
ENGL126
FR 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A,146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H;
SPAN 102, 201, 201H, 202

IGETC 7 - Ethnic StudiesGE3.0

Notes:
Students who started at Rio Hondo College beginning in Fall 2023 or later will be required to complete a course in Area 7. Students who started at Rio Hondo College prior to Fall 2023 and have maintained continuous enrollment will not be required to complete a course in Area 7 (instead, they will complete 9 units from at least two disciplines in Area 4). Please see a counselor for details.

Select one:
CHST 101
EGSS 110

Total Semester Units:15.0† 
Total Units for Art History AA-T program (Transfer to UC/CSU)57.0† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

Given a work of art to discuss, students will apply art historical terminology and methodology in its analysis and interpretation.


2

Given a comparative analysis prompt, students will discuss works of art representative of diverse cultures and regions within a historical and social context.

 


3

Given an image or set of images to analyze, students will explain how works of art communicate meaning visually.


4

Given a visual analysis prompt, students will describe the principles and formal elements of visual art.


5

Given an art historical or historical context, students will express an understanding of the roles and functions of art in society.


About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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