Program Overview

Visual Studies (Ph.D.)

The Visual Studies program offers a Doctoral degree.

Degrees

• The program requires the following:
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • A résumé
  • A writing sample:
    • Academic writing not to exceed 20 pages
    • Include your name in the footer of each page of your writing sample
  • A statement of purpose:
    • Describe your plans for graduate study or research and for your future occupation or profession
    • Include any information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and qualifications for graduate study at the University of California, Santa Cruz
    • Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages
  • A personal history statement:
    • This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support
    • Note that the personal history statement should not duplicate the statement of purpose
    • Recommended length is a concise 1-3 pages
    • Discuss how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree
    • Include any educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences, challenges, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey
    • Describe how you might contribute to social or cultural diversity within your chosen field
    • Describe how you might serve educationally underrepresented segments of society with your degree

Additional Requirements

• See the test score requirements for this program.