ÉCOLE PARSONS À PARIS

a division of Paris College of Art

Critical Studies

Faculty / Curriculum

Survey of World Art & Design

Studies of Performing Arts

Design Exhibition at Versailles

"Critical Studies courses prepare our students to engage with a range of histories, discourses and ideas that can only enrich their art and design practice and help them to become well-informed and responsible citizens of the world!"

The interdisciplinary Critical Studies curriculum provides students with critical-historical perspectives on art, design and culture, and the research, writing and presentation skills essential to a well-rounded approach to art and design. These skills and knowledge permit students to situate contemporary visual culture within its wider geographical and historical contexts, to investigate a range of issues that impact cultural production, and to discover and probe resonances within their own practice.

In Freshman year, "Survey of World Art & Design" serves as a key initiation to the historical examination and critical analysis of art and design across ages and cultures. Students learn to look at, contextualize, and interpret images and artifacts. "Critical Reading & Writing" emphasizes creative thinking, the acquisition of good writing skills, and its use as a tool for personal expression. Following this, in addition to a set of core courses designed for the specific majors and degrees, a wide range of Critical Studies electives enable students to broaden and sharpen their own critical and theoretical points of view. École Parsons à Paris takes special advantage of its campus and location as an ideal environment for observing and exploring social and cultural difference. Visits to studios, museums, galleries and various cultural events expose students to historical and contemporary art and design achievements. Senior level seminars address timely and provocative issues that help students develop ideas and make critical choices that will enhance their own careers as artists, designers, and design managers.

Critical Studies Faculty

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COURSES

You can explore the range of courses we offer by downloading the Course Description Brochure 2011-2012.

Curriculum

The curriculum has a strong art and design history and theory component, which is supplemented by general critical studies courses in the Humanities and Social Sciences. The BFA and BBA degrees require students to complete 42 Critical Studies credits overall. Within the Critical Studies requirements, a minimum number of credits in art and design history is required of all students (12 credits for the BBA track; 18 credits for the BFA track).

Critical Studies requirements for degree programs vary. Students should consult their advisor to ensure that these requirements are fulfilled appropriately. Under exceptional circumstances, and with the approval of the Critical Studies Chair, requirements may be taken out of sequence.

Info

14 rue Letellier
75015 Paris France
+33(0)1 45 77 39 66
Fax: +33 (0)1 45 77 10 44
contact@parsons.paris.edu

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