In the Division of the Arts and Humanities, admissions for the 2026-2027 academic year are paused in all doctoral programs except for Philosophy and Music Composition and Sound Practices, and in all master's programs except for the Master of Arts Program in the Humanities and the Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts. This is a one-time pause for the 2026-2027 academic year. Read more here.
If you are a prospective applicant, we encourage you to stay connected with us and to explore other AHD degree programs that may match your graduate education interests. Questions and requests for additional information should be sent to ahd-admissions@uchicago.edu.
The PhD Program in Art History at the University of Chicago offers multifaceted art historical training including object-driven teaching and research, robust language offerings, and opportunities for extensive coursework in other disciplines across the Arts & Humanities Division, the Social Sciences Division, and the Divinity School, among others. Graduate students benefit from vibrant partnerships with world-class art institutions in Chicago, both on and off campus, including the programs of the Chicago Object Study Initiative.
Time to Degree
6-7 years, 9 years maximum
Course per Quarter
3-4 courses/quarter
Size of Cohort
5-6 students/year
Degree Milestones
18 graduate level courses
Individually tailored language requirements
Qualifying Paper (MA thesis)
3 general exams
Dissertation proposal
Dissertation and defense
Teaching Requirement
3 TAships + 1 standalone lecture course
Apply for Admission
Financial Aid for Prospective Students
All admitted PhD student are guaranteed to have full funding support from the University and external sources, or a combination of the two for the duration of their program.
Applicants do not need to apply separately for funding.
Questions?
Register for an information session or appointment with an admissions representative
Questions about the application process may be directed to ahd-admissions@uchicago.edu or (773) 702-5809
Students do not need to contact faculty before applying
For department specific questions, contact gradadmissions@uchicago.edu or a current PhD student in a particular area of interest, listed under contacts here. You can also fill out the RMI form.