4.9

Nathaniel Donahue

Art - Santa Monica College

4.9
Quality
1.7
Difficulty
100%
Would Retake
122
Reviews
4.9
Quality
1.7
Difficulty
4.9
Helpful
4.9
Clarity

100%

Would Retake

122

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

115

4

5

3

2

2

0

1

0

What Students Say

Take notes of the paintings he puts on the slides

AHIS3 - 5.0 rating

This is by far the BEST professor Ive had at SMC

AHIS2 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

36%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

95% confidence
Based on 94 grades
Most common grades:
A (48)
A+ (38)
Not sure yet (6)
Grade Distribution
A(86)B(4)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 101 reported grades
A: 48
A+: 38
Not sure yet: 6
B: 4
Common Tags
Caring (32)
Hilarious (27)
Amazing lectures (24)
Inspirational (22)
Amazing lectures (15)
Clear grading criteria (14)
Respected (12)
Accessible outside class (10)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.06 avg change
Jan
Feb
Apr
Jun
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

1014

5.0

(1)

ARTHISTORY72

5.0

(3)

AHIS72

5.0

(1)

ARTHISTORY2

5.0

(5)

ARTHIS2

5.0

(2)
+10 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ARTHISTORY3

3.5

ARTHISTORY1

3.0

AHIST3

2.5

ARTH2

2.3

1014

2.0

Reviews (122)
5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY72
Jul 28, 2014

Great teacher by far!! Easy grader not to hard on you. Passionate about what he is teaching and easy to follow along, you don't want to miss a single class! Made a summer class fairly easy and had several extra credit opportunities. Five star Teacher!

5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY72
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Jul 28, 2014

Awesome Professor! Must take, would take again. Easy grader not to hard. He gives clear presentations and you will learn a lot. Must memorize several works of art but it's not too hard to handle. Lots of opportunities for extra credit.

5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY72
Jul 28, 2014

Awesome Professor, would take again! Easy grader not to hard. Must memorize several works of art but it's not too hard to handle. Lots of opportunities for extra credit.

5.0
2.0
AHIS72
Jul 29, 2014

Nice teacher you'll like him. He makes class easy to understand. His exams aren't hard you just have to memorize the authors,date, and titles of arts. Weekly assignments but they are open-ended. It's not hard at all. Take him!

5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY2
Aug 4, 2014

THANK YOU PROFESSOR DONAHUE FOR MAKING SUMMER 2014 AN ENJOYABLE LEARNING EXPERIENCE AND FOR YOUR ENTHUSIASM WHICH MADE CLASS FUN TO ATTEND EVERYDAY, YOU MUST STUDY IN ORDER TO SUCCEED IN HIS EXAMS, BUT TAKE NOTES AND YOULL BE FINE! YOU MUST TAKE DONAHUE, YOU WONT REGRET HIS WAY OF TEACHING AND ENCOURAGEMENT. GLAD WE WERE HIS FIRST CLASS AT SMC! =)

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Aug 30, 2014

THE BEST! He is a very intelligent & passionate teacher and his jokes, stories and overall personality makes class enjoyable. If you are lost, just let him know and he'll help. I never used the book in his class. MEMORIZE the date, artist, and medium. Flashcards help!!! It's almost an easy A, but requires some studying. It's Art History after all.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Dec 7, 2014

Great teacher. Very funny and enthusiastic and makes art history interesting. You have to learn the artist name, art title, date, medium for about 50 works of art which sounds really hard but it's a breeze. About 5 2 page essays throughout the semester and mid term is just like the final. 50 works of art some short essays analyzing art.

5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY2
Jan 6, 2015

Professor Donahue is the best teacher ever. He is smart funny and nice. He makes art history fun and interesting, he also let his students analyze art on their own way. He knows so much about western art. I cans say enough about him . He even speaks Italian. I am taking him again

5.0
3.0
AHIS3
Grade: A
Jan 22, 2015

Simply put, he is the greatest. He is also the reason why I will major in Art History!

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Feb 12, 2015

Professor Donahue is an amazing professor! I really learned alot and he is really there for you! It's not an easy A if you don't study your flash cards, but if you do, it's a piece of cake! He makes Art History fun and you learn at the same time! More professors should be like him :) take him, you won't regret it, I took him for Winter semester! :)

5.0
1.0
ARTHIST2
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 12, 2015

I am honestly not really into art, however professors passion and excitement is contagious and gets you as well excited about the paintings ! He makes the class very fun, also talks about his personal stories sometimes which are very funny and interesting ! Pretty easy and I would totally recommend as well as take his cclass aain !

5.0
2.0
ARTHIS2
Feb 12, 2015

PROFESSOR DONAHUE IS AMAZING. I'm really not into art but after I took his class, I became interested in the world of art. He's lectures are so helpful and fun. Take him. So worth it.

5.0
1.0
ARTH2
Grade: A
Feb 13, 2015

I have taken an art history class before and I thought Art History was soo boring. I took his class in the winter and it was a 6 week class. Donahue made my views on Art History boring to interesting. He is such an awesome teacher. He made me not just try and remember the paintings for class but comprehend it to another level. Take him!!!

5.0
2.0
1014
Feb 18, 2015

Prof. Donahue is AMAZING! He is by far my favorite professor. I took AHIS 2, and he brings the class and topic of art to life. He is hilariously entertaining, and there is never a dull moment. As long as you are ready to memorize the dateartist nametitlematerial of the art, you are ready to take this class.

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Feb 20, 2015

Professor Donahue was by far the greatest professor I have taken. A lot of my friends and even my counselor said Art History was REALLY tough. Some friends even told me it was boring. So I came to class with tensity and worriedness, but Professor Donahue took all my worries and tensity away. It's actually an easy and fun class to be in.

4.0
1.0
ARTHIST2
May 8, 2015

He is very passionate about art history so he gives his 110% in class. He is a very nice professor humorous too.I enjoyed his class.

5.0
1.0
AHIS3
May 11, 2015

Donahue's clearly an asset to SMC!! BEST. EVER. He loves his students. Very passionate when giving lectures. I took both of his classes Art History 2 & 3 at the same time, and it was four months of pure joy. Always looking forward to coming to his class because his lecture was so fun -- he's freaking HILARIOUS! For finals, all you got to do is memorize +- 50 works of art (title, author, date, material) and you'll be just fine. Flashcards would certainly be helpful! Also three (2-3 pages) take-home essays. DON'T NEED TO THINK, JUST TAKE HIM!!!

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
May 14, 2015

So passionate about what he does and so nice. Would take him again, he is one of the best professors at SMC. He tells you exactly what is on the test and he is so helpful.

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jun 15, 2015

Great overall teacher. He is funny and makes art interesting by relating it to modern times. He is very energetic and patient but don't mistake his kindness for weakness. If i had to take another art class i would pick him again.

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Jun 29, 2015

BY FAR the MOST entertaining and engaging instructor I have ever had, simply by the nature of his personality. He is a little kooky and a little spazzy, but in a good way. His lectures are interesting and effective in helping you learn the material. Seriously, I would take all of his classes if I had more time, just because he's so entertaining.

5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY2
Grade: A
Jun 30, 2015

Highly recommend! I am not into art at all but he made it interesting and fun to learn about. Attendance isn't mandatory. He makes it extremely clear on what will be on the exams. All you have to do is memorize the paintings, the date, the material, and 3 facts about it. EASY A! Plus he's really friendly and always has high energy.

5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY2
Jul 1, 2015

Professor Donahue is hilarious! There wasn't one time where I din't laugh in his class. He is also very passionate, which makes his lectures interesting and engaging. He is very nice and highly approachable, willing to help students with anything. The work is not that hard either. There are 3 short essays, 1 midterm, and 1 final. Take him!

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Jul 11, 2015

Amazing professor. Snail pace grader. If you are looking for a high energy eccentric class this is a good choice. Using note cards and reading the book automatic A. Straightforward class. Has a liberal extra credit policy.

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jul 13, 2015

If you're going to take art history you may as well take Donahue. He's energetic and as straight forward as can be, in regards to what to expect infrom the class.

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jul 17, 2015

I loved this class thanks to Prof. Donahue. I learnd so much and now I want to take more ahis courses. Professor Donahue is hilarious, he wants you to participate and gives great usefull feedback. His class was the reason I got up in the morning and took a 2 hour bus to school when I only had one class that day. Totally worth it!

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jul 29, 2015

Take him!! Easy papers, good office hours, great personality, and will sometimes rap Nicki Minaj. He is very open about what will be on the test, along with review days which are extremely helpful. Thanks to Donahue, I will be taking more art history courses in the future.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Aug 13, 2015

Study for his tests and you'll be fine. One of the best professors at SMC!

5.0
1.0
ARTHIST2
Grade: A+
Aug 14, 2015

He is hilarious!! His lectures are rarely boring. Take excellent notes on slides and ask questions. Study the slide list he provides immediately so you can Ace the midterm and final. There are 3 mini essays that are very easy! Also on the midterm and final expect to write a mini essay and short responses. Highly recommended!

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Sep 3, 2015

He is the best and funniest professor EVER! Highly recommend!

5.0
3.0
ARTHISTORY1
Grade: A
Sep 22, 2015

The best teacher ever. Gives such passionate lectures. He really makes you feel like you are the artist, as oppose to other dull art history teachers that make want to skip the lecture and just do the reading on my own.

5.0
4.0
AH2
Grade: B
Dec 1, 2015

BRUH! Professor Donahue is the most engaging and passionate professor I have ever had. He gives extra credit if you go to museums. Show that you're interested and he will take that into account. The essays are two pages. The tangents that he goes on are funny and interesting. He also has an impressive knowledge of Nicki Minaj, which is cool?

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: B+
Dec 2, 2015

An amazing teacher! He only assigns 3 papers which are easy if you show up for lectures and test are only mid term and final. Very understanding and straight forward, it's all in the lecture and from the amount you study will show your grade. He is very out going and you can tell he loves the subject he teaches. Definitely would take him again!

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Dec 5, 2015

Take his class! He is really enthusiastic about his class and will also give you slide lists as to point towards what you will need to study for the tests. Some writing assignments, opportunities for extra credit. Nice fun class to take, especially if you are majoring or interested in Art History.

5.0
1.0
AHIS3
Grade: A+
Dec 7, 2015

He is the best! Not only does he have humor, he is a great teacher in terms of relating to students. He constantly refers back to when HE was an undergraduate, which makes him a respectable professor who relates to undergraduates. He gives extra credit (1 point per museum trip doing the semester) and is easy to talk to. Personally, I love him!

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2015

Professor Donahue is one of the best and easiest teachers at SMC. His lectures are clear and he is willing to help you. He has 3 essays and 2 tests to decide your entire grade, and he usually gives all essays 100% as long as you know what you're talking about. The midterm and final are pure memorization. Take this professor!

5.0
1.0
AHIS2AND3
Grade: A+
Jan 25, 2016

Best professor at SMC. Lectures are very animated and engaging. Attendance is not mandatory (for the most part), and it is possible to get an A by studying at home (Got 100% on everything). Tests (2) are based solely on the I.D. lists (memorization of about 30 works of art each). The essays (3) are pretty easy, and can be done a day or two before.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Feb 8, 2016

Very easy course. He's very funny. Don't need any book. The class is basically just memorization of art slides he provides online as well as three very easy short essays. You don't even need to attend lecture much considering it's all online and he doesn't care if you're absent. Great, easy class to take as a general ed.

5.0
2.0
ARTHISTORY2
Grade: A
Feb 24, 2016

amazing lectures. He makes art history very interesting. The museum visits during the semester ties in with the lectures. Best art history professor so far.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 9, 2016

LMAO professor Donahue is the BEST professor at SMC, I wish he taught ALL my courses!! He is always smiley and optimistic (think it might be whatever water hes drinking at Starbucks) He does get off tanget at times and goes back in forth between speaking to the class and thinking outloud in his head but hes very entertainin to watch, I want to writ

3.0
3.0
ARTH2
Apr 26, 2016

Hmmm. He is funny, chill.. teacher but i felt that i didn't learn much. I saw the reviews and expected him to be cool but.... i was disappointed. you pretty much dont need to show up for class and just study the slide list he gives. I like art history alot but i loss interest after taking this class. our class was over 100+. disappointed.. :/

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: Not sure yet
May 23, 2016

Donahue is extremely nice and actually the funniest teacher I have ever had at SMC. He is really nice and cares that his students do well! I personally don't have an interest in art history but he makes it tolerable. 2 article papers, 1 museum paper, 1 midterm and 1 final. It's a lot of memorization so beware! Its doable though.

5.0
3.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jun 11, 2016
Would take again

Take his class. he is the best professor ever!!

5.0
3.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Jun 15, 2016
Would take again

Professor Donahue gives amazing lectures! He makes the class very interesting and he also relates a lot of the material to contemporary and pop culture to make it relatable. Even if you're not an art history major, you will be interested and I'm sure that you will love the class!

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Jun 28, 2016
Would take again

I think he's one of the professor I enjoyed the most in my life! I never really appreciated Art History but since I took it with him, he blew me with so much passion that I could not resist go regularly to the museum! Take him you won't regret! Don't take its kindness for weakness please! He's amazing! A big YES!!!

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jul 28, 2016
Would take again

One of the most intelligent professors I've ever had. His extensive knowledge of art history in addition to his eccentric personality makes his class both interesting and fun. 3 papers, 1 midterm, and a final, all are easy if you put in some effort. If you have to take art history, go with him. He is an excellent professor.

4.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jul 29, 2016
Would take again

He's a kind, silly, and affable guy. He loves art and creates an enjoyable classroom environment. His class was easy. I liked how it was distilled down into just remembering pieces by who, what, when and why is it important. A good choice.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Aug 10, 2016
Would take again

Amazing professor. 3 papers 1 midterm & final. Offers extra credit opportunities. He really knows his stuff and is willing to help you out if you need it. Easy A. He really cares about students succeeding in his class.

CARES ABOUT STUDENTS
Hilarious
EXTRA CREDIT OFFERED
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Sep 22, 2016
Would take again

I go to USC and took Professor Donahue's AHIS2 class over the summer at Santa Monica. I am SO glad I did - he is without a doubt the single best professor I have ever had in my life. So hilarious and so absolutely gobsmackingly KNOWLEDGEABLE. I learned so much and going to class was a JOY because of this man.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2016
Would take again

He cares about students and the class is very interesting. He is the best professor I had so far!!

Respected
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
AHIS3
Grade: B
Dec 19, 2016
Would take again

Very knowledgeable professor. Really passionate about Art History. Mostly memorization of his slides for exams and a couple of pretty easy papers. Entire class based off of lecture slides but he posts them online so attendance isn't mandatory. Definitely a great professor if you're an art history major.

Hilarious
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
AHIS3
Grade: A
Dec 22, 2016
Would take again

There are three papers and 2 exams in the semester. If you spend time and write the paper by following the PROMPT he hand out, you'll get A's on you papers for sure. And, study all the images on the LISTS he gives for the 2 exams, you'll get A's on you exams. He is a really kind human being and professor.

5.0
3.0
AHIST3
Grade: A
Jan 3, 2017
Would take again

Prof Donahue is hands down the best professor I think I will ever have. I learned something new and interesting every class. If you can get into his class by chance since he is so popular, be prepared for a lively and funny take on art. He covers all intersections of people which is something I wish I could see more of. Don't pass this class up!

Gives good feedback
Respected
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Feb 5, 2017
Would take again

Hilarious teacher! Don't buy the textbook, it's never used in this class! His lectures are interesting and give you all you need for the tests. Tests mostly have to do with memorizing the art and artist names. Easy A!

Hilarious
5.0
3.0
AHIS3
Grade: A
Feb 13, 2017
Would take again

My favorite teacher at SMC. Donahue is smart, funny, passionate, and his class is worth every minute. I found myself loving coming to his class. I guarantee he is the best Art History teacher at SMC, and would also say he is the best in general. I am taking his Art History 2 in the spring. Just as a note, no need to buy the expensive book.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
ARTHISTORY3
Apr 3, 2017
Would take again

I love him!!! Omg!! He's amazing please take him! His lectures are INCREDIBLE!! She's so cute! And always makes you understand the artworks and gives you so much information that you never thought of learning just from one work! I would take him a million more times!! Just saying!!

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
May 1, 2017
Would take again

This is the most inspirational teacher i've ever had. I have learned so much by going to his lectures, time seems to fly by. I wish he taught every class in the AHIS dept. I like how he provides the slide list, but during lectures, he explains the context of the slides further by showing other slides. He is simply the best and helpful outside class

Respected
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: B
May 30, 2017
Would take again

I took this class in the Fall semester and at first I thought it was going to be a difficult course, but after the first day of instruction he made it so much fun to be there. He made everyday exciting to be there and that was a really big deal because our class was at 8am in the morning. I can't wait to take Art History 3 in the Fall!!

Inspirational
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Hilarious
3.0
2.0
AHIS3
Grade: A
Jun 28, 2017
Would take again

I'm not a fan of modern art so this was a hard class to sit through. He makes it interesting but uses a lot of art vocabulary that is hard to understand and absorb. Got very political with our class which was frustrating. He's hilarious tho. If you spend time studying tests are easy, if you don't study at all you will fail. Don't need book.

Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jul 24, 2017
Would take again

Awesome professor. A few exams and in-class assignments as well as papers of course. Passionate about the class and fun to listen to. Highly, HIGHLY recommend, take this professor if you want someone fun and a good opportunity to get an A.

Inspirational
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jul 26, 2017
Would take again

Take him!! He's the best lecturer, you will learn so much. Going to museums is a lot more fun after taking his class. It's a pretty easy A, just do well on the exams and put moderate effort into the papers and you'll get the grade. I wish I could have taken more classes with him, he's probably the best professor I've had at smc.

Inspirational
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
AHIS1
Grade: A
Nov 13, 2017
Would take again

this guy is awesome, he makes the wildest jokes in class, his class is normally high in numbers around 100+ people, but if you visit him during office hours he'll remember you. couple of in class assignments (he doesn't even read em) a midterm , a museum paper and a final. also there is an extra credit trip to lacma.

Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Caring
5.0
3.0
AHIS3
Dec 19, 2017
Would take again

Fantastic professor!!! He is so funny, knowledgeable, and a brilliant teacher! I looked forward to going to very class lecture and felt totally immersed in what he was saying. He grades super fairly and assigns interesting papers to get you thinking. He is not super strict, but knows how to be strict when he needs too. Wish I could take again!!

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Would take again
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Apr 21, 2018
Would take again

He is real professor. it is my first semester and my English was so clumsy. with all these problem, he willing to help me and it was best good help in total my life. He is natural born teacher.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
AHIS3
Grade: A
Aug 6, 2018
Would take again

Show up to class! Take notes of the paintings he puts on the slides! Listen to him! He is amazing! Two papers and 2 exams (1 final and 1 midterm). Study for the final and midterm! Make flashcards! Seems difficult at first but this class is super easy and his lectures are attention grabbing. Amazing professor

5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jan 20, 2019
Would take again

This is by far the BEST professor Ive had at SMC. He genuinely cares about his students, his lectures are crazy entertaining, and hes always willing to listen. As long as you study and pay attention during class then youll do fine. Take his class!!

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Feb 1, 2019
Would take again

Professor Donahue is AMAZING!!! He lets you make up work. Take him, easy A. He knows his stuff, he is funny and really cares about the students in class and outside of class. 10/10 would recommend!!

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
3.0
ARTHISTORY3
Mar 14, 2019
Would take again

This professor is truly one of a kind, he is so so passionate about art history and peoples rights/ your rights as a student. His class is super easy, the work is very doable i highly suggest taking this prof!

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
3.0
ARTH2
Grade: A+
May 30, 2019
Would take again

Professor Donohue is awesome everyone should take him for art history.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Feb 26, 2020
Would take again

Take this professor! He is an easy grader, and such a good and caring professor. There are a lot of assignments for the Winter Semester, but as soon as you do all the works, he will give you an A. The modules on Canvas are very organized, and the videos and articles are not that long. It is a good way to study through videos and articles.

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
1.0
ARTHIS2
Grade: A+
Oct 28, 2020
Would take again

Prof. Donahue is GEM. He doesn't believe in due dates, doesn't give any exams or quizzes, and purely grades you off of homework. He is exceptionally kind and helpful and will support you in any way he can. Truly the best and most flexible professor I have ever had during my time at SMC. TAKE HIM TAKE HIM TAKE HIM

Clear grading criteria
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Nov 5, 2020
Would take again

Professor Donahue is a very kind-hearted and incredible professor. He is really invested in his job and can keep a conversation going for a long time! This whole class was incredibly captivating and I didn't know I would love Art History as much as I do today. No due-dates until the last day, really prompt responses, super informative, and kind.

Accessible outside class
Get ready to read
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Feb 13, 2021
Would take again

He is truly one of the most inspiring professors I have ever met at SMC!! I've always had an interest in art history, but taking this class from Professor Donahue was even made it more amazing and fun. I took his class during winter and there was no due date for the assignments, the only due date is the last day of class... JUST AWESOME!

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
3.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Feb 15, 2021
Would take again

Professor Donahue is by far the best professor I've had at SMC. He is so excited about art history and makes all the assignments clear and fun. Take him if you get the chance!!

Respected
Lots of homework
Caring
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Apr 13, 2021
Would take again

I took Prof. Donahue for 8 weeks, and I passed with 100%. He's great, easy to talk to, and the assignments are reading-based but not difficult at all. He doesn't give any tests/quizzes out, but there are comparison essays, discussions, and two thesis papers. Take this class!

Accessible outside class
Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A-
Apr 22, 2021
Would take again

Definitely recommend! One thing that I didn't like about this course was that it was an 8-week course which meant I didn't get to know the teacher well and he made the class very interesting. Discussion posts, essays, and other assignments are not heavy and the material is easy to understand.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Apr 30, 2021
Would take again

Inspiring instructor who makes learning art history incredibly fun! Lectures are content packed, energetic, and engaging; even when digested fully online I still felt that I was experiencing the classes live. Paper-writing heavy curriculum however totally manageable if you are structured and stay on task. Prompt and thoughtful communication always.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
So many papers
4.0
1.0
AHIS3
Grade: A
Jul 1, 2021
Would take again

His class is pretty easy and everything is due at the end. The essays are very short and you will get full credit for them. The only way you will not get an A is if you just don't submit anything. I highly recommend to take him if you want to learn about Art but do not want to write heavy comparison essays that you will be graded on.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Aug 3, 2021
Would take again

Professor Donahue is wonderful! He has a bright and caring personality. His lectures are interesting and most of the time they cover homework assignments. Another great thing is that there's no due date for homework, but everything must be submitted by the last day of class. I 100% recommend to take his class.

Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Oct 9, 2021
Would take again

Professor Donahue made me fall in love with history, you can tell he knows what he is talking about and isn't reading from a lecture slide. He slides don't have any notes on them so watching the lectures is a must. He basically does the homework in the lectures, easy A and YOU LEARN.

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Oct 14, 2021
Would take again

Honestly the best professor I have had at SMC. If you have the opportunity to take his class do it! His lectures are long but so interesting and make the time go by very fast!

Lots of homework
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Nov 11, 2021
Would take again

I loved this class! Lectures are quite heavy but nothing you can't do without some effort. All he wants to see is that you understand the material, Easy A

Gives good feedback
Respected
Lots of homework
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Feb 18, 2022
Would take again

Absolutely amazing professor, no amount of words can even begin to explain how great of a professor they are. Assignments are incredibly easy, just do it and you'll get an 'A'. A lot of great information could be gathered not just through the class, but the professor as well.

Respected
Accessible outside class
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
AHIS3
Mar 19, 2022
Would take again

Easy and exciting class. Mostly you will write an essay comparing an artist and their artworks. The professor cares about students; he is not a tough grader. I had a difficult time during the semester, and we got an agreement on deadlines instead of dropping a class. Zoom meetings are optional. I would recommend taking his class.

Clear grading criteria
Caring
Online Savvy
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Apr 26, 2022
Would take again

Professor Donahue is hands down the best professor I have had at SMC. He doesn't want his students to memorizing facts, he want you to think about the art for yourself! The class is based on a series of short response essays and discussion posts. If you do the work you will pass the class. Donahue is so amazing! TAKE THIS CLASS!

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS3
Grade: A+
May 14, 2022
Would take again

Great professor who is helpful and cares a lot about students. When the war started in Ukraine, I started this class, and my family was affected. Instead of dropping a class,he allowed me to submit homeworks with no deadlines. Homeworks are mostly short compassion essays and a couple of discussions, and all lectures are recorded. Not a tough grader

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS3
Grade: A
Jun 19, 2022
Would take again

Professor Donahue is by far the best professor at SMC. I took both of his Art History classes and absolutely enjoyed them. His classes are easy but extremely interesting. Take him - you won't regret it!

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Dec 6, 2022
Would take again

He is the best professor you will ever get. He's sweet, caring, funny, and he wants everyone to have a good time in class. hes class is very easy , no test, and no finals. he wants everyone to learn art and have fun while doing it. I would definitely do take a class with him again.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Dec 8, 2022
Would take again

Best SMC professor, and well deserved, I will choose Prof Donahue again.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 20, 2022
Would take again

Professor Donahue is the best! Loved how he grades easily and makes class so interesting!

Hilarious
Online Savvy
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Dec 20, 2022
Would take again

Prof Donahue is a gem. You get so much personal feel in his teaching and he cares so much about students. You're not just a number. He did a live lecture every week that fell on the day of my office meeting, I would stay for the lecture and it was always a treat. He took so much time to get to know me and really cared. Class is super interesting.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Dec 23, 2022
Would take again

Professor Donahue is an amazing professor! Truly loves what he does and makes art interesting. I appreciate his openness, kindness, and understanding. The lectures are fun, very informal.. Always available to help or just to chat. I did a lot of writing in this class but it sparked a lot more love towards art. Take his class if you have the chance!

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Feb 4, 2023
Would take again

I wish every teacher were like Professor Danohue. He truly wants every student to succeed. I took the 6-week winter course, which had a lot of writing; however, everything is due on the last day of the course. He did optional weekly zoom discussions, which he then posts it. He gives good notes, so I highly recommend watching! EASY A. TAKE HIM

Hilarious
So many papers
Caring
5.0
2.0
AH2
Grade: A
Feb 8, 2023
Would take again

Truly an amazing professor. He is very friendly, and give's you fun video's to watch to complete the assignment. And there are quite a bit of reading. There is also a lot of writing, but he is a very fair grader. Everything is due at the end of the semester. Another thing to note is the writing assignment's aren't long. Would take again.

Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Jun 17, 2023
Would take again

Words cannot describe how amazing Professor Donahue is. He is caring, joyful, and very understanding. Never met a professor as nice as him. He does not grade tough at all. There are NO due dates. Just do the work and you will get full credit. If you want to take an Art History class for your major or GE requirement, HE'S THE BEST! :)

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Jul 21, 2023
Would take again

Professor Donahue is excellent! His lectures are interesting and informative. He is an easy grader and so accessible, responds quickly to emails. Highly recommend his class!

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Jul 23, 2023
Would take again

One of the best professor I've had at SMC, great lectures, easy grader, he is funny, caring and tries his best to make his class interesting.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
AH2
Grade: A+
Aug 5, 2023
Would take again

Pretty nice class overall. The work that needed to be done was fairly easy and just required us to look at pieces of art and respond to the given prompts refereeing the art. No tests to.

Accessible outside class
Online Savvy
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: B+
Dec 21, 2023
Would take again

I love Prof. Donahue and he is the kind of teacher who wants all of his students to succeed. His lectures are really interesting and he provides all the resources you need to pass the class. He also accepts all late work for full credit until the end of the semester and that comes in handy if you have other stuff going on. Really awesome guy!

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Jan 9, 2024
Would take again

Professor Donahue is such a great teacher! His lectures were hilarious, and the assignments were easy to do- some discussions and comparison images. He made the class fun and interesting, and the final ( which was an assignment) was pretty easy. If you put in some work, his class is an easy A and you'll learn a lot.

Hilarious
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Apr 23, 2024
Would take again

One of my favorite prof at SMC. His lectures were never boring and provide you with all the resources and answers you need for the homework. He genuinely wants the best for his students and is accessible outside of the class to help you with anything you need. I highly recommend taking any of his classes

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Caring
4.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: B
Apr 29, 2024
Would take again

SUPER nice guy. Very caring and understanding of any personal issues that may interfere with assignments. I took a hybrid course so lectures were a little longer and they were tedious. However he's extremely funny and tries to be as engaging as possible. LOTS of homework so beware. Like....lots.

Get ready to read
Lots of homework
Caring
4.0
2.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Jun 12, 2024
Would take again

Very, easy and simple class. Professor lets your get ahead of work and so I finished everything halfway through the semester. Everything needed to complete assignments can be found in his modules and recorded lectures. Only real complaint I have is his use of AI, specifically that of Ai "art", especially since he is an art history teacher.

Accessible outside class
Online Savvy
5.0
2.0
AHIS1
Grade: A
Jun 15, 2024
Would take again

His lectures were so amazingly funny and inspiring. He's passionate about art history and he strives to connect with each of his students. He gives lots of in-class extra credit opportunities. I really enjoyed that the assignments were due at the end of the semester, no late penalties, with a suggested turn-in schedule.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
AHIST3
Grade: A
Aug 19, 2024
Would take again

Professor Donahue is great. The class was fairly simple and required looking at art pieces and writing about them. He pre-records lectures so you don't have to watch them but I recommend you do if you need extra help! He didn't give any tests or quizzes. He accepts any late work but it's easy to fall behind. Overall an easy A and a great class!

Amazing lectures
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Oct 23, 2024
Would take again

Hip, fun guy. Lectures are funny and engaging if you're into art. Ok if you aren't (non-mandatory attendance). RELEASES ALL assignments ahead of time INCLUDING the FINAL project. Assignments take 5-25 minutes each personally (I think there's 1-3 a week). Take advantage if you're course heavy. Definitely easy class :)

Amazing lectures
Accessible outside class
Online Savvy
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 30, 2024
Would take again

Professor Donahue's asynchronous AHIS 2 course is one of the most enjoyable classes I've taken so far. The homework is mostly covered in lectures, so it is fairly easy to write essays. The lectures are amazing, as professor Donahue is so passionate about art, and he explains everything so well. He is very liberal with deadlines, which I appreciate.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Nov 13, 2024
Would take again

TAKE HIS CLASS!!!! Prof Donahue is THE BEST professor! He is literally hilarious in his lectures. I took art history 2 for my GE credit, but it ended up being one of my all time favorite classes just thanks to prof Donahue. He is super engaging and the homework assignments are pretty easy. Easy A all around. Would definitely recommend!!

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Dec 10, 2024
Would take again

Honestly, honestly, honestly, the most caring, kind, patient professor I have ever had the pleasure of having. Outside of his amazing personality, he is an amazing teacher. You want to learn from his lectures. He makes them fun and educational. it would be a pleasure to have him again. He is a ∞/10 person, teacher, and human being.

Gives good feedback
Caring
Respected
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Dec 10, 2024
Would take again

Honestly, honestly, honestly, the best professor any student could ask for. Makes the hectic life of a student a million times easier. fun and educational lecture and it would be a pleasure to have him again. He is a ∞/10 teacher, art enthusiast, and human being.

Gives good feedback
Caring
Respected
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: B+
Dec 14, 2024
Would take again

AHIS 2 was my fav in fall! the class is mostly 200-500 word essays and discussions. longer assignments were 2 thesis assignments and the final, but still easy. he goes over the short essays during lectures and basically gives you all the answers and info for them. his lectures are great and both fun and helpful. if u do all the work u get the A

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Dec 17, 2024
Would take again

Took the course online. Super understanding professor. Easy A. All course work is due at the end of the semester with no late penalty.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Dec 22, 2024
Would take again

Professor Donahue is amazing! He gives the best lectures and very clear grading criteria for assignments. He provides new lectures weekly which are informative and interesting. One of my favorite classes I've taken at smc!

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Jan 7, 2025
Would take again

Professor Donahue is the epitome of a person knowledgeable of their field. His Lectures are engaging and captivating making it perfect if you want to major in the study. Additionally, he makes his canvas super organized and his work is easy, brief, and manageable. He also allows for late work.

Amazing lectures
Caring
Respected
5.0
2.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Jan 20, 2025
Would take again

Professor Donahue makes this class super engaging. His lectures are hilarious and informative, and he's always willing to help. With Unstuck study and the manageable workload, it's easy to get an A in this course.

5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Feb 16, 2025
Would take again

Great, hilarious lectures. Easy A and you will learn a lot. Interesting and straightforward material. Would recommend taking if you want a lighter class in a tough schedule.

Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Feb 25, 2025
Would take again

I had many Professors throughout my entire life and Prof. Donahue is by far the best professor I have ever had. His lessons are always so interesting and by his way of teaching he never has a dull class. Not only does he grades super fair and gives feedback. He is honestly one of the rare great Professors left on Campus.

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2025
Would take again

The class is self-paced so you can do the hw whenever you have time. He is just a really sweet guy. He will answer back to emails really fast and gives clear answers to questions (which is really hard to get from a prof nowadays). He. is really laid back and just wants to hear your opinions on art pieces. Overall, great prof and great class!

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A+
Jun 6, 2025
Would take again

Super interesting and easy class, a bunch of short writing assignments and theyre all open for the whole semester so you can work on them whenever. No exams or anything definitely take this class if you need an easy A

Accessible outside class
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: A+
Jun 8, 2025
Would take again

One of the best professors I have ever had! There are some class discussions (not every week) and one assignment usually every week. He made learning so much more enjoyable for me, and his assignments never stressed me out!

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
AHIS1
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 24, 2025
Would take again

About 8 weeks in, this course is by far the easiest course I have taken. The instructions he provide are super clear and put well for students to understand. There are mini essays, definitions, and discussions which are pretty easy to if you complete it well. As long if you get the work done it's any easy A from there. I definitely recommend him!

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
1.0
AHIS2
Grade: A
Dec 22, 2025
Would take again

Easy A as long as you actually do the work

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
So many papers
5.0
1.0
AH2
Grade: A+
Dec 28, 2025
Would take again

Professor was amazing, very kind, funny, and flexible. He explains the material clearly and makes the class enjoyable. Very flexible, but keep up with the coursework (it's easy to fall behind if you don't), the class is very manageable. Easy A if you put in the work. I would definitely recommend him.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Caring
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

36%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

95% confidence
Based on 94 grades
Most common grades:
A (48)
A+ (38)
Not sure yet (6)
Grade Distribution
A(86)B(4)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 101 reported grades
A: 48
A+: 38
Not sure yet: 6
B: 4
Common Tags
Caring (32)
Hilarious (27)
Amazing lectures (24)
Inspirational (22)
Amazing lectures (15)
Clear grading criteria (14)
Respected (12)
Accessible outside class (10)
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1014

5.0

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ARTHISTORY72

5.0

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5.0

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