The Liberal Arts programme consists of a series of theory courses that encourage students to explore beyond the art making process and develop their conceptual academic skills. It encourages the development of research and writing skills and introduces students to the language of art appreciation and art criticism. The foundations of modern art history are examined through a comprehensive analysis of works from all parts of the globe. An electives programme offers the opportunity to explore literature and a range of subjects in the humanities.

HISTORY OF ART
Semester One LA 105

In the First Semester, students examine the earliest art forms and gauge their importance to the development of civilizations. From Prehistoric art, they are taken on a journey covering Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Indus Valley and South East Asian, Chinese, Japanese, Aegean and finally the Greek civilization.

Semester Two LA 205

Beginning with early Etruscan, Roman, Christian and Byzantine art, students are taught the comparative rise of the Islamic Civilization, emerging as one of the most powerful and influential civilizations in the history of mankind.

Students are introduced to the parallel time line of European and Western art movements of Proto Renaissance through to High Renaissance which emerged as a consequence to Islamic rule in Europe and flourished, leaving a profound influence on the art of the Modern World.

The objective of this one year intensive survey course of the ancient world to the Renaissance is two fold; first to develop an understanding of how movements in art start and flourish and then dwindle into oblivion leaving their marks on the annals of time. Second is to emphasize the importance of the basics of conceptual as well as skill based art forms.

Semester Three LA 305

The journey of Art through the ages continues to a more structured development in Europe with a survey of Western oriented movements of Mannerism, Baroque, Rococo and Romanticism. Parallel advancements in Islamic art and architecture are surveyed through the eastern part of the world.

Semester Four LA 405

Modernity manifested itself in many guises in Europe and America during the 19th and 20th centuries. Artists too had their fair share of turmoil related to issues of acceptance in society. These are explored through the Modernist movements initiated in both art and architecture, namely Realism, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Sculpture, Arts & Crafts movement followed by the Bauhaus Expressionism and other isms commonly known as post modernist theories which are surveyed during this semester. Issues related to colonization of Africa and Asia , are surveyed through the various art movements. An introduction is given to the contemporary art scene in Europe and America .

The objective for the second year of continuation of the survey course is develop not only an understanding of the various movements' influences which have affected art as we know it today but a greater emphasis is made on grasping the skill of writing down thoughts intelligently to prepare the students for the greater challenges lying ahead.

Semester Five LA 505

Students focus on the evolution of contemporary art in the subcontinent with a detailed study of Muslim rule in the subcontinent, culminating in the Mughal colonial and post-colonial art. They thus become familiar with a significant element of art history in their own context.

Semester Six LA 606

Concluding the three year survey course, the study of History of Art culminates in an in-depth examination of trends in contemporary Pakistani art. This segment is meant to familiarize students with the works of contemporary artists and to enable them to trace influences of various movements in art as it is practiced today.

HISTORY OF CULTURE
Semester One LA 106

This course helps students to further their perspective of the culture they represent as well as the larger culture outside the school walls. Supplemented by written assignments, students refine their research skills and learn to articulate various aspects of culture through group presentations and projects.

Semester Two LA 206

The course culminates in praxis projects that examine specific facets of culture. These projects have taken various forms, from installations and video documentaries to theatrical performance.

ACADEMIC STUDY SKILLS
Semester One LA 107

This is an intensive course designed to develop reading, writing and research skills. It includes regular written assignments and equips students to deal with theory course requirements at the school.

ART AND SOCIETY
Semester Three LA 307

This course explores the psyche of the artist and expounds upon art-related issues in the context of society as a whole. Through a series of projects, students relate theoretical concepts to their cultural context.

ART AND SOCIETY
Semester Four LA 407

This segment further develops the critical process. Students continue with group projects and are encouraged to lead class discussions, thus providing a forum for their concerns and allowing them to develop a visual vocabulary for their own ideas.

ISLAMIC AND PAKISTAN STUDIES
Semester Three LA 308

This course offers a broad based view of historical issues in Pakistan Studies, linking them up to an understanding of current affairs. It includes an introduction to Islamic history and philosophy.

Semester Four LA 408

Continuing an exploration of the topics covered in semester three, the course encourages students to articulate their understanding of the subject through written assignments and presentations.

PSYCHOLOGY
Semester Five LA 503

This introductory course covers basic concepts and theories in psychology. The course is designed to facilitate a process of self awareness and to promote inter-personal skills.

Semester Six LA 603

The course proceeds with an examination of theories of personality, stress and its manifestations, environmental psychology and group dynamics. It builds upon the understanding acquired in semester five.

MARKETING AND MANAGEMENT
Semester Five LA 502

Management concepts are introduced with an emphasis on individual behaviour, group behaviour and organizational systems and processes. The course includes an overview of management and marketing functions. Topics covered include time management, conflict resolution and teamwork. Through this course awareness is developed of work ethics and organizational processes in the real world.

Semester Seven LA 709
Electives

In the seventh semester students can choose a seminar course from a range of subjects in the humanities. In the past, subjects offered have included Global Contemporary Art, English Literature, Urdu Literature and Film Narrative. Courses offered are subject to availability of faculty and the registration of a minimum number of students in the course offering.