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Courses in Modern Art, 19th-20th Century Art, History of Photography, Feminist Art, American Art and Architecture together with traditional arts of Africa, Pre-Columbian America, Native American, South Pacific, and Asian Art are the strengths of Art History at Governors State University. Although the art major requires some coursework in art history, this area of study may be selected on both the undergraduate and graduate level as a student's primary focus. On the undergraduate level, coursework is taken in view of a Senior Project on an art historical topic while on the graduate level an M.A. Thesis in art history is the culminating achievement.

The Worlds of Art Internet course offers participation in a new
educational use for Internet technology that brings students in contact with other students and scholars located around the globe. Studied and discussed are certain objects from Southeast Asia, Russia, China, Indian, Nigeria, Iran, Mexico, and a Native American culture.

GSU campus environment includes the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park together with an extensive collection of non-western art objects in the University's permanent collection. Moreover, ready access to major art collections, archives, museums, and libraries, within the greater Chicago Metropolitan area provide ample opportunities for art historical study at Governors State University.

Attention is given to various types of development for students in painting and drawing: conceptual, technical, formal and critical. Special emphasis is given to individual growth of students and development of personal imagery and a consistent body of work.

Printmaking consists of courses in intaglio, rellief, silkscreen, lithography and monoprinting. As technical skill increases emphasis is placed more on personal imagery. Students are encouraged to experiment and combine media; incorporate digital imagery and book format. Non-toxic methods and materials are used in all printmaking courses. Courses are repeatable for more in-depth work.		  

The sculpture program consists of hands-on material handling and process research in metals, wood, clay, resins, etc. Students learn sculpture and design theory while producing works of art. Students come from the region, out of state and from other countries, all bringing diverse visions to share in their choice of art as a career. They are committed to bridging cultural gaps and to creating work that addresses a broader audience rather than a limited group. Recent graduates have participated in International shows, teach at regional univeristies and are very active in exhibiting in the Chicago area.

The photography area is an interrelated program using both the traditional analytic strengths of the photographic medium along with synthetic involvement using assemblage and manipulation. Both digital and conventional processes are studied as alternative or combined approaches. The medium is explored in the study of personal life events, societal documentation and commercial applications. 		 

Digital imaging allows for greater synergism between analytical and synthetic applications of creativity. While unique in its abilities to combine various media, digital imaging develops the same skills utilized in art practices of all expressive work. The foundation for the program is interdisciplinary. Students use digital applications for drawing and design, manipulated and assembled photographs and time-based studies.