Program Overview

History of Art PhD / MA by Research

The University of Birmingham offers a History of Art PhD / MA by Research program, allowing students to conduct their own research project in an area of History of Art that interests them. The program is part of the renowned Art History, Curating and Visual Studies Department, which benefits from exceptional resources across the University.

Course Overview

The program enables students to join a research-driven department with a variety of interests across History of Art. The department's research has real-world impact and includes collaborations with cultural organizations across the Midlands region. Students can contribute to the Department's research blog, The Golovine, and participate in the Department's annual symposium, gaining invaluable experience presenting their research.

Course Structure

The PhD program is normally undertaken in three years full-time or six years part-time, while the Masters-level research program is taken in one year full-time or two years part-time. The period of maximum registration for a PhD includes a further year, designated "thesis awaited," which is usually a period of final revisions and more occasional supervision.

• Year one: The first year (or part-time equivalent) of a PhD usually includes a literature review specific to the thesis and topic. Students begin to undertake their research and relevant training.
• Year two and three: Students continue their research and receive regular feedback on their thesis.

For an MA by Research, these timescales are condensed into one year (or two years if studying part-time). The MA by Research is assessed by a thesis of 40,000 words. An oral examination may be held at the discretion of the examiners.

Course Highlights

• The department is home to Midlands Art Papers, an open-access online journal and collaborative curatorial program.
• Students can contribute to the Department's research blog, The Golovine, and participate in the Department's annual symposium.
• The program offers flexibility, allowing students to choose the mode of study that works for them - full-time, part-time, or distance learning.
• The department is based in the internationally renowned on-campus art gallery, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts.

Course Delivery

The program offers flexibility, allowing students to choose the mode of study that works for them - full-time, part-time, or distance learning. There are no formal lectures or seminars in a PhD or MA by Research. Instead, students undertake research under the expert guidance of a primary supervisor, co-supervisor, and mentor, supported by complementary research training.

Research Themes

The Department of Art History, Curating and Visual Studies addresses topics and questions from all over the world. The department has three research streams and a particular interest in British Art. Students can explore the department's research themes and projects, including:

• Research in Art History

Entry Requirements

• Merit in a Masters degree (for entry to a PhD)
• 2:1 Honours degree (for entry to an MA by Research)
• Any academic and professional qualifications or relevant professional experience are normally taken into account
• International students must demonstrate a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification

Fees and Scholarships

• Full-time: £5,181
• Part-time: £2,591
• The same fees apply to both campus-based and distance learning study
• A limited number of scholarships and studentships may be available to outstanding applicants

Application Process

To apply for a postgraduate research program, students must submit their application and supporting documents online. The research proposal is a key part of the application, and students should take their time to ensure it is clear and concise. The proposal should include:

• A draft research proposal or a summary of research ideas
• Details of university-level qualifications and any relevant professional experience
• Details on how the student proposes to fund their research

Career Opportunities

The University of Birmingham is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits. The Careers Network offers a range of events and support services, including networking opportunities, career coaching, and one-to-one guidance.

Student Experience

At Birmingham, students have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life. The university offers a variety of accommodation options, exciting activities to get involved in outside of studies, and all the support and advice students need.

• Accommodation: A variety of choices, including dedicated postgraduate halls and private accommodation close to campus
• Living in Birmingham: A melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry
• Campus life: A green and spacious campus with historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities
• Student support: Committed to providing the best possible support to all students, including one-to-one careers advice and guidance on job applications and CV writing.