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The University of Michigan offers a PhD in history of art. The program is designed to be completed in six years, four of which are spent in residence. The first two years are devoted to intensive coursework intended to train students in the principal methods and materials used in the historical study of the visual arts and visual culture. Small seminars focus on developing the skills in critical reading and visual analysis essential to art historical research: students are guided to investigate a range of artistic practices in relation to their specific historical and social circumstances. Year three is devoted to further coursework and to focused independent study for the preliminary examination, which is taken in April. All language exams are normally passed by the end of the third year. Early in the fourth year the student submits a dissertation prospectus for review by the dissertation committee and begins dissertation research. Years five and six are devoted to research and writing of the dissertation; typically students spend substantial time doing on-site research. At the beginning of each academic year, students submit a progress report for formal review by the Graduate Committee. It is expected that students will defend the dissertation by the end of their sixth year.

Professional training is an integral part of the program. The faculty works closely with students to provide them with necessary teaching skills. Beginning in their second year, students have the opportunity to develop their professional capacities through teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and curatorial internships.

Application deadline for Fall 2012 admission is THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011.