In addition to fulfilling the requirements outlined below, students should continue to acquire a broad knowledge of art history and related subjects by reading widely on their own and by taking and auditing courses. Those who did not major or minor in art history should speak with their faculty advisors as soon as possible about additional coursework that may be required.
All student schedules should be designed in consultation with the faculty advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies based on the requirements outlined below. In extraordinary circumstances a student nearing the end of coursework who has not been able to take a course with his or her major professor may substitute an independent study (AH 799) for a lecture course. The independent study (AH 799) for the completion of the master’s thesis (see below) may not be counted as a lecture course.*
A. Courses
AH 701
M.A. students with a strong background in art history or the equivalent should take a minimum of seven art history courses, at least THREE of which must be seminars
B. Breadth
At least one course in three of the five following areas:
- Cross-Cultural/Diaspora
- Africa/Middle East
- Asia
- Europe
- The Americas
At least one course in three of the four following periods:
- Ancient to Medieval
- Early Modern (Circa 1400–Circa 1800)
- Modern (Circa 1800–Circa 1945)
- Contemporary (Post 1945)
C. Language
One foreign language. (See the Graduate Handbook)
D. Master’s Thesis
Students complete their master’s thesis in the fourth semester, usually registering for AH 799 (credits to be determined) with their major professor. The M.A. thesis is read by a three‐member M.A. committee. At least two readers must be members of the Graduate Faculty.
The thesis is normally a perfected seminar paper of 30–40 pages, based on original research, analysis and interpretation.
Students who wish to do so may deposit their Master’s Thesis with Memorial Library. See here for more information.
*Seminars are defined as discussion-based classes of 12 or fewer students requiring more and longer reading and writing assignments as well as more in-depth research projects. Lectures are defined as larger classes in which a faculty member addresses the group and assessment is based on shorter writing assignments and quizzes/exams.