PhD in Art History in Philadelphia United States | Temple University

Temple University | Philadelphia United States
Visit institution website for more information
Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 30,360
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
36 months

The Art History PhD program at Tyler School of Art and Architecture equips students with comprehensive training for top-tier careers in academia, research, and museum curation. Combining the strengths of a premier art institution with a major research university, Tyler PhD candidates collaborate with faculty specializing in diverse global fields, including cutting-edge digital methodologies. Students leverage faculty networks and Philadelphia's rich artistic heritage - a cultural hub conveniently located between New York and Washington, D.C. - to access exceptional research possibilities.

Our Art History Department welcomes both MA holders and outstanding BA graduates (with sufficient preparation) directly into the doctoral program. BA applicants must demonstrate strong art historical foundations, language proficiency, and academic excellence. All enrollees receive a primary advisor and maintain close mentorship throughout their studies, with the option to change advisors following Graduate School protocols.

Temple University provides Art History PhD candidates with exceptional resources:

The Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio in Charles Library supports digital humanities research through advanced computing, visualization tools, VR technology, collaborative workspaces, and 3D printing/media capture facilities.
State-of-the-art art and architecture facilities enable direct engagement with creative processes through interaction with student and faculty artists.
Art History graduate students can pursue Temple's Teaching in Higher Education certification for academic careers or the Cultural Analytics certificate through Duckworth Scholars Studio.
The program regularly hosts thought-provoking lectures by distinguished scholars and professionals, enhancing intellectual discourse.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.5

Qualification Requirements

Applicants should declare an intention to enter the program by establishing contact with the Graduate Director in the Department of Art History. They are also strongly encouraged to establish contact with at least one faculty member whose area of research interest overlaps with their own and who could potentially serve as their faculty advisor. Information on the faculty can be found at https://tyler.temple.edu/programs/art-history.

Applicants who wish to be considered for a University Fellowship must apply by December 15. Those who would like to be considered for a Teaching Assistantship are also strongly encouraged to apply by December 15, but November 1 applications for Spring admission may be considered.

APPLY ONLINE to this graduate program.

Letters of Reference:
Number Required: 3

From Whom: Letters of recommendation should be obtained from college/university faculty members, gallery directors and/or curators who can speak to the applicant's academic and art historical competence. The letters should be submitted by the referee at the time of application at https://apply.temple.edu/Tyler/.

Coursework Required for Admission Consideration: Five courses in Art History are desired for admissions consideration: two general surveys and one upper-level course in each of three periods, in any geographical area: ancient art (to circa 1400), art produced circa 1400-1800, and Modern/Contemporary art. Official transcripts from all universities/colleges attended, whether or not a degree was awarded and whether the courses were taken as an undergraduate or a graduate student, must be sent as part of the online application.

Master's Degree in the Discipline/Related Discipline: Generally, a master's degree in Art History is required, but a background in Art History and a master's degree in a related field suffice. Alternatively, exceptionally well-prepared students with a BA may be admitted directly to the PhD program.

Bachelor's Degree in the Discipline/Related Discipline: A baccalaureate degree is required, but it need not be in Art History.

Statement of Goals: In approximately 500 to 1,000 words, describe your interest in Temple's program, research goals, future career goals, academic and research achievements, and how you will contribute to the Tyler School of Art and Architecture mission. Submit at https://apply.temple.edu/Tyler/.

Standardized Test Scores:
GRE optional. If you wish to submit scores as a supplemental item, your official scores should be sent directly from the Educational Testing Agency. Temple's institutional code is 2906.

For international applicants, the minimum scores for a standardized test of English are:

TOEFL iBT: 79
IELTS Academic: 6.5
PTE Academic: 53
Duolingo: 110
Applicants who completed an undergraduate degree in the United States or other English-speaking country are waived of the English-language testing requirements. Please contact Tyler Admissions to learn more.

Resume: Current curriculum vitae required. Submit at https://apply.temple.edu/Tyler/.

Tuition USD 30,360
Philadelphia, PA, United States
Type
Public
Degrees offered
Bachelor's Degree

Similar programs for you