Art History Ph.D. Program Admission

For admission to the Ph.D. program, an Honours B.A., or its equivalent, and an M.A. with an "A" grade in the primary courses, are required. Normally, both previous degrees should be in Art History; however, the committee will also consider degrees in a related subject (such as Art Conservation, Classics, Cultural Studies, Film, Fine Art, History, Literary Studies, etc.). In all cases, the Art History Graduate Committee will examine the record of courses taken by applicants in both their graduate and undergraduate programs in order to establish that they have sufficient preparation in the History of Art. The application process includes both online and offline elements listed below. Successful applicants will be chosen by the graduate committee, and will receive an offer of admission from the School of Graduate Studies. 

  • Proof of reading knowledge of one language other than English, normally in the form of a test passed at the M.A. level is required at the time of application. 
  • A writing sample (e.g. art history essay), submitted to the Graduate Assistant
  • current CV must be sent as electronic copy directly to the Graduate Assistant.   
  • A brief "Statement of Purpose" (500-600 words), outlining the applicant's specific area(s) of research and career goals. This should include a statement of why they believe the Department of Art at Queen's is an appropriate place for their doctoral studies. This must be submitted as part of the online application.
  • Two current academic letters of reference from scholars familiar with the applicant's academic record and performance, must be sent either electronically through the online application process or alternatively as hard copy to the Graduate Assistant.
  • All official academic transcripts must be sent to the attention of the Graduate Assistant.