Academic Programs

Graduate Programs

Three graduate programs are administered by the department: the M.A. in Art History; the M.A. in Art History and Museum Studies; and the M.F.A., offered in conjunction with the School of the Museum of Fine Arts. You will find descriptions of each program below. Please note that we ONLY review applications in February, for the following academic year (fall) admission.

M.A. in Art History

The master's program in art history is designed to provide a broad Historical understanding of the visual arts, in addition to developing critical skills and methodology. Students engage these issues through course work, seminars, independent research, and teaching experience. Students enjoy small classes and opportunities to work closely with faculty. Students complete their degree either by writing a thesis or by submitting two qualifying papers; either option involves an independent research topic designed by the student in consultation with a faculty advisor. M.A. students from our program are successful in applying to and completing, Ph.D. programs. Faculty currently offer courses and/or research opportunities in the following areas: American art, architectural history, African art, Armenian art, Asian art, Islamic art, ancient and medieval art, Renaissance, Baroque and 18th century art, modern and contemporary art, Latin American art, art on film, theory, gender studies, and museum studies.

Requirements for the M.A. in History of Art: Reading knowledge of one foreign language required upon entry. Eight semester courses in art history at the advanced (100 and above) level, (or seven courses in art history and now optional one course in a second foreign language), including Historiography and Methodology 101, three courses should be seminars; one semester as a TA (or RA) subject to enrollments and funding; comprehensive exam; thesis (2 semesters); or, two qualifying papers. Full-time students can complete the program in 2 years.

For inquiries about the program, contact Associate Professor Ikumi Kaminishi, Director of the Graduate Program.

Admission: Applicants are expected to have the equivalent of a bachelor's degree with a major in art history and to demonstrate, prior to entering the program, reading knowledge of French, German, Italian or other relevant foreign language. (Greek or Latin may be substituted in classical art.) A 500 or above GRE general test scores are required for M.A. applicants; a recent writing sample of your best piece of writing; it may or may not be a topic in the field you intend to pursue. Don't send in papers with corrections and grades from your previous instructors; make the editing changes and polish the writing before you send it to us.

M.A. in Art History and Museum Studies

The MA in Art History and Museum Studies is designed to give students advance qualification in art history and a broad introduction to museum work. The program is offered for those hoping to work in collection-related jobs in art museums. It provides students with skills to integrate the theoretical study of art history with practical concerns of displaying, managing, and interpreting art objects in a variety of museum settings. Students take courses in art history and museum studies simultaneously and the program normally takes two years to complete. If you are interested in museum studies courses only please see the Museum Studies Certificate Program.

Requirements for the M.A. with Museum Studies: for students entering the program beginning in fall 2007 - Reading knowledge of one foreign language required upon entry. Six semester courses in art history at the advanced level, including Historiography and Methodology 101; thesis, 2 qualifying papers, or a qualifying paper and an art history seminar; comprehensive exam and the TA/RA responsibilities (same as the MA degree); 5 courses in Museum Studies, including a museum internship.

For inquiries about the program, contact Assistant Professor Monica McTighe, advisor to the MA in Art History and Museum Studies.

Admission: Requirements are the same as for the MA in Art History

Master of Fine Arts

For information regarding the M.F.A. contact the School of the Museum of Fine Arts.

Learn more about:

• Graduate School Admissions
• Museum Studies Certificate Program