PhD in Art History

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is taken in a particular field, supported by a strong background in the general history of art. Doctoral candidates also undertake collateral studies in other graduate departments, or in one of the University's interdisciplinary programs. The Department of Art offers M.A. and Ph.D. degrees, although the M.A. is only granted as a step toward fulfilling requirements for the Ph.D. The Department does not admit students who wish to work only toward the M.A. degree.

Size of Program

The Department admits four to seven students each year.

Financial Aid

The level of funding for Art History graduate students varies from year to year. One may normally expect to receive some amount of financial aid through the first five years of study if entering with a B.A., and four years if entering with an M.A.  Funding sources include departmental fellowships, teaching assistantships and research assistantships. It is University policy that students admitted without financial aid must continue through the residency on a no-aid basis. Once a student advances to candidacy, students are encouraged to apply for grants and fellowships. Information on pre-doctoral grants, summer work funds, and funds for special research and travel connected with the writing of the dissertation may be obtained at any time from the Student Services Administrator.

Time to Completion

The Ph.D. student's formal progress is reviewed at the end of the second year (first year for those entering with an M.A.). By the end of the third year, a dissertation topic should be selected and a proposal written. After all course requirements are met and the proposal is approved, the student begins research and writing of the dissertation. The dissertation must be completed within five years from the date of the student's admission to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements

For university requirements, information and course listings see:

http://www.stanford.edu/dept/registrar/bulletin/

Rev 9/30/09