Art History

The Art History program at the University of Delaware offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of visual culture across different periods, regions, and styles. Designed for those passionate about understanding the historical, cultural, and aesthetic significance of artworks, this program provides a broad foundation in the history of art from ancient civilizations to contemporary practices. Students will engage with a diverse range of artistic movements, influential artists, and critical theories, developing skills in visual analysis, research, and scholarly interpretation. The curriculum includes courses on Western and Non-Western art, architecture, and material culture, enabling students to gain a global perspective on the development of visual traditions. Through lectures, seminars, and research projects, students will learn to contextualize artworks within their historical and cultural backgrounds, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for careers in museums, galleries, education, conservation, and academia. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, offering opportunities for internships, museum studies, and collaborative research, all aimed at preparing graduates for professional success in the dynamic field of art history. Faculty members are renowned scholars committed to mentoring students and guiding their academic and professional growth. With access to extensive collections and resources at the university’s facilities, students can deepen their understanding of art and artifacts firsthand. Upon graduation, students will possess a well-rounded knowledge of art history and the analytical tools necessary to contribute meaningfully to the appreciation, interpretation, and preservation of visual culture worldwide. The Art History program at the University of Delaware fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to exploring the transformative power of art across history.

For students seeking a Ph.D. in Art History, the Department offers two routes to degree completion. One is designed for students who hold an M.A. in art history or its equivalent. The other, the Direct Ph.D. Program, is designed for students who hold a Bachelor's Degree in art history, or a related field, and are seeking a Ph.D. in Art History. Students admitted to the Direct Ph.D. Program have the option of stepping out of the program at the M.A. degree.

Requirements for students in the Direct Ph.D. Program consist of a minimum of 36 credits of graduate course work and satisfactory completion of the language requirement (2 languages), the M.A. Paper, and major and minor Ph.D. field exams. At least 30 of the course credits are to be in Art History seminar courses and the other 6 to be selected from additional seminars, graduate lecture courses, or independent study courses, or a combination of these. In addition to the 36 credits of graduate course work, 3 credits of ARTH870 (Master's Paper) and 9 Dissertation credits are required. Candidates then produce a dissertation, which is defended in an oral examination.

Requirements for the Ph.D. for students holding an M.A. include a minimum of 24 credits of graduate course work beyond the M.A. and satisfactory completion of the language requirement (2 languages) and major and minor Ph.D. field exams. At least 18 of the course credits are to be in Art History seminar courses and the other 6 to be selected from additional seminars, graduate lecture courses, or independent study courses, or a combination of these. In addition to the 24 credits of graduate course work, 9 Dissertation credits are required. Candidates then produce a dissertation, which is defended in an oral examination.

• Applicants to a University of Delaware graduate program must possess (or be in the final year of completing) a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree.
• Transcripts
• Test Scores
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Write your Graduate Application Essay
• Resume (optional)
• International applicants need to pass the TOEFL (minimum 100, with at least 20 in each section) or IELTS (minimum 7.5, with at least 6.5 in each section) language test, unless they have a postsecondary degree from an institution in an English-speaking country.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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Scholarships

• University Fellowships
• University Tuition Scholarships
• Graduate Student Assistantships
• Residence Hall Assistantships
• UD Press Awards Internship

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History at the University of Delaware offers students an engaging and comprehensive exploration of the global history of art, encompassing diverse cultures, time periods, and artistic movements. The program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, visual literacy, and analytical skills through rigorous coursework, research opportunities, and exposure to original artworks and scholarly activities. Students gain a deep understanding of the historical contexts that have shaped artistic production, along with the ability to interpret and evaluate works of art within their cultural and societal frameworks.

The curriculum includes a core sequence in art historical methods, visual analysis, and historical surveys, along with specialized courses focusing on areas such as medieval, renaissance, modern, and contemporary art. Students also have the option to pursue interdisciplinary approaches by integrating courses from related fields such as archaeology, anthropology, history, and museum studies. Practical experience is emphasized through internships, research projects, and participation in university-sponsored exhibitions and conferences. The program prepares graduates for careers in museum and gallery work, art conservation, curatorial positions, arts administration, and graduate studies.

Faculty members are distinguished scholars and professionals who bring a diverse range of expertise, including modern and contemporary art, Asian, African, and Indigenous art, and the history of European art. The university’s strong connections with local museums and cultural institutions provide students with valuable hands-on experience. The program fosters a vibrant academic community with access to resources such as the university’s art collections, library archives, and digital databases. Graduates of the program are well-equipped with the analytical, research, and communication skills necessary for success in the arts and cultural sectors.

The University of Delaware’s Art History program emphasizes fostering a global perspective, encouraging students to critically engage with artwork from around the world. Opportunities for study abroad and collaborative projects further enrich the educational experience. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their course selections to align with specific interests and career goals, including options for minors or certificates in museum studies, historic preservation, or other related fields. Overall, the Art History program at Delaware aims to produce well-rounded, knowledgeable, and culturally aware graduates prepared to contribute meaningfully to the arts community and beyond.