PhD in Art and Archaeology in Princeton United States | Princeton University

Princeton University's art history graduate program stands among the nation's most established, with a long tradition of shaping educators, researchers, and museum professionals. The program offers unique benefits, including small seminar-style classes that foster close interaction and lively debate among students and faculty. The curriculum is enriched by occasional contributions from Institute for Advanced Study scholars and visiting experts. Students specialize in one of seven major areas: 1) Ancient Art, 2) Byzantine and Medieval, 3) Renaissance and Baroque, 4) Modern and Contemporary, 5) East Asian, 6) Islamic, or 7) African and African Diaspora studies. The program equips students for academic careers through rigorous training in art historical scholarship. Ideal candidates possess a strong undergraduate background in humanities, including history, literature, multiple languages, and preferably art history. First-year students with limited art history exposure may supplement their studies through directed readings or modified undergraduate courses. The program encourages independent study through faculty-supervised reading courses on specialized topics. While prior master's degree holders benefit from additional preparation, Princeton's non-credit system precludes advanced standing. All applicants must apply directly to the Ph.D. program, with their chosen specialization being final as transfers between subfields are typically not permitted.