PhD in Art History in Riverside United States | University of California, Riverside

University of California, Riverside | Riverside United States
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Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 27,864
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
36 months

The Department of the History of Art at UC Riverside provides MA and Ph.D. programs, specializing in art and architectural history from the early modern era to contemporary times. This interdisciplinary program covers artistic and architectural developments from medieval periods onward, with particular strengths in photography, sculpture, and architectural studies. It emphasizes cultural intersections, cross-disciplinary dialogue, and key artistic evolutions across Asia, Europe, and the Americas from Renaissance times to today.

Coursework is organized into three main chronological divisions: pre-modern, early-modern, and modern/contemporary studies. Candidates explore diverse historical periods and cultural traditions beyond their primary focus. The department encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration with units like Comparative Literature, English, Dance, History, Anthropology, Media Studies, and Religious Studies.

Utilizing UC system resources and Southern California's vibrant arts scene, the program maintains strong ties with Los Angeles museums, including the UCR/California Museum of Photography's notable collections. The region offers unparalleled access to global art spanning ancient to contemporary works and serves as a hub for architectural innovation, with numerous modernist landmarks nearby. Los Angeles continues to nurture both renowned and emerging artists.
The PhD program features an intimate, adaptable structure with personalized faculty mentorship, preparing graduates for academic roles or arts careers in curation, museums, galleries, and auction houses. Practical training includes internships and hands-on experience with campus and regional collections, supported by the department's extensive institutional networks.
Prospective students may apply after completing either a BA or MA in art history or related fields. BA entrants complete two years of coursework: foundational seminars in year one, followed by specialization development and field examinations in year two. These assessments inform the dissertation proposal presented in the third year, after which candidates begin dissertation work on or off campus.
MA holders typically progress faster, often presenting their prospectus in their second year while completing any required supplementary coursework. Individual timelines vary based on prior academic preparation as evaluated by graduate advisors.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 7.0

Qualification Requirements

A bachelor's degree, or its equivalent, from an accredited institution. The degree must represent the completion of a program equivalent in subject matter and scholarship to that offered by the University of California.

A minimum of a 3.0 undergraduate GPA or B-equivalent (if GPA is not on a 4.0 scale). We recommend that you check with the graduate program as they may have a higher standard for their GPA requirements. If your GPA is below this, follow up with the graduate program you are interested. Applications are reviewed in their entirety and the program can look at your other components and advise you on potential admission.

All applications are initially reviewed by the graduate program before a recommendation is submitted to the Graduate Division for final approval.

We require transcripts with final grades or most recent grades (if degree is in progress) from all college-level institutions you have attended. We also require proof of any degree awarded to you. Confirmation of your degree can be a degree posting on a transcript or a copy of your degree certificate. If you have attended an institution located outside of the US.

IELTS - minimum acceptable overall score is 7 with no score less than 6 on any individual component. TOEFL - minimum acceptable scores are: 550 for the revised TOEFL paper-delivered test and 80 for the TOEFL iBT.

Tuition USD 27,864

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