The Program in the Arts (PIA), 1972-1988, began the formal recognition of the Arts as academic disciplines at Barnard College. It was instituted in order to "provide the opportunity for students gifted in the arts to continue the development of their skills while obtaining a liberal arts education. " PIA was an interdisciplinary major with courses in visual arts, writing, music, dance and theater. Every student was required to take courses in each discipline. The senior thesis was completed with a creative work in the student's chosen field of concentration. Students were encouraged to collaborate between disciplines for these works. After a review by a Visiting Committee on the Arts at Barnard composed of alumni, faculty and trustees and notable practitioners and patrons of the arts, the PIA was discontinued in 1988. In its place formal majors in Dance, Music, Theatre and Writing were established.
From the description of Barnard College program in the arts records 1972-1988. (Columbia University In the City of New York). WorldCat record id: 122404663
