Program Overview

Art History (PhD & DPhD) Program

The University of Delaware offers an exceptional Doctorate program in Art History, providing comprehensive studies from ancient to modern times with specialized concentrations in American and European art.

Program Overview

Our PhD program equips students with advanced research skills and in-depth knowledge to become leading scholars and curators in the field of art history. Key features include:

• Rigorous coursework covering diverse periods and methodologies
• Close mentorship from distinguished faculty
• Opportunities to work with original artworks and curate exhibitions
• Interdisciplinary connections with material culture studies and historic preservation

Areas of Specialization

The program offers the following areas of specialization:

• Art of the Americas
• European Art
• Art of Asia and Its Diasporas
• Architectural History
• Material Culture Studies

Research Opportunities

Students benefit from access to:

• University Museums' collection of 6,000+ objects
• Center for Material Culture Studies
• Center for Historic Architecture and Design (CHAD)
• Winterthur Museum Library
• Delaware Art Museum

Career Preparation

Our program prepares graduates for careers as:

• University professors
• Museum curators
• Arts administrators
• Cultural heritage specialists

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the Direct Ph.D. in Art History must hold, or be a candidate for, the bachelor's degree or its international equivalent from an accredited institution. Applicants to the Ph.D. Program in Art History must have completed, or be in the process of completing, a master's degree, or the equivalent. All applicants will normally have completed an undergraduate major in art history, or at least show extensive preparation across a wide range of areas within the field.

Application Requirements

To be considered, applicants must submit:

• A brief personal essay discussing their reasons for pursuing graduate work in art history at the University of Delaware
• Letters of recommendation from three persons familiar with the applicant's academic work
• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Two required supplemental forms
• A writing sample, typically an academic essay bearing upon the history of art or a related field

Funding

All or nearly all doctoral students receive a stipend and full tuition scholarship. Department funding typically takes the form of a fellowship, teaching assistantship, graduate assistantship, or a combination of two of these, for the academic year. Students also have the opportunity to apply for competitive semester and full-year fellowship opportunities from the Graduate College and external partners.