Doctor of Philosophy in the History of Art, Design, and Visual Culture (Art and Design)

Entrance Requirements

An applicant must normally hold an MA degree in the History of Art (or its equivalent) from a recognized institution.

Applicants with a MA degree other than History of Art will be considered for admission provided that an adequate background in the History of Art, equivalent to an MA degree in the discipline, can be demonstrated. Applicants are advised to have reading ability and course credits in a language other than English at a level satisfactory to the department. Applicants will be required to submit current samples of writing and documentation of previous education and work experience to the department by January 15, for admission in September of the year of application.

Program Requirements

The program consists of 18 units at the graduate-level: one required (3-unit) [HADVC 600 ​ or HADVC 677 (3 units)]; one 3-unit 500- or 600-level course in the area of focus; and 12 units in approved graduate-level courses (which may include courses from other departments or Faculties, or an independent study course (museum apprenticeship). In addition competence in at least one applicable language other than English must be demonstrated. Coursework is selected by the student in consultation with the supervisor, the Graduate Advisor in HADVC, or the Associate Chair of Graduate Studies in the Department of Art and Design.

Students are strongly encouraged to participate in the non-credit Pro-Seminar Series organized by the Department.

During their second year, doctoral students will prepare for and successfully complete a candidacy examination including a written component, which will be evaluated during the oral candidacy examination.

During their third and fourth years students will prepare and defend a dissertation during a final oral examination in accordance with regulations established by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research.

Length of Program

Students are normally expected to complete the PhD in four years of full-time study.