The doctoral program in Art History would be appropriate for those interested in pursuing architectural history and other art historical contexts of preservation. Students will normally complete the MA degree before applying for candidacy to the Ph.D. program. One major field and one minor is required and students will be examined after completing 24 hours of course work. Minor fields can be targeted to the students interest. Candidates for the PhD. Must pass examinations in German and either French or Italian.
Candidates then produce a dissertation, which is defended in an oral examination.
The department offers specialization in the decorative arts through courses at Winterthur, and students may take their minor field examination and elect to write their dissertations in this area. The Department of History and the Winterthur Museum jointly sponsor a Ph.D. program in the History of American Civilization. Based on the multidisciplinary study of American social and cultural history, the Program is distinguished by its emphasis on American material culture. The Doctoral degree recognizes the candidate's command of specific fields of study as well as the ability to conceive and execute a Ph.D. dissertation. These assistantships include a stipend and tuition.