Admissions Requirements

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Applying to the MA in Art History Program

The MA in Art History begins each academic year in September. Completed applications are due by 31 March for the following September class.

Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed on a space-available basis.

Useful Information:

MA Tuition Fees

MA Scholarships and Financial Assistance

MA in Art History View Book

The MA in Art History View Book is available to view as an eBrochure (online brochure). Click here to launch it.

If you would like to view a PDF of the View Book click here.

Admissions Criteria

Academic Background

Applicants to the Master of Arts in Art History degree program must have successfully completed a bachelors degree with a major in Art History or a related discipline, preferably in the Humanities. All applications will be evaluated individually and students without the requisite undergraduate major may be required to complete up to four undergraduate Art History courses at Richmond before acceptance into the Masters program.

Professional Statement

We seek students who are committed to engaging in serious research in the visual arts and who demonstrate a curiosity and interest in intercultural issues. Therefore, all applicants must submit a Personal Statement of 1,500 words addressing their reasons for wishing to undertake a Masters in Art History at Richmond. You should take time to read the brochure or view the website in order to demonstrate your understanding of the unique character of the degree and why it is the right program for you.

Professional Statement Guide

References

To help us evaluate your potential for success in the Richmond graduate program, we require academic references from two individuals who know you and know your work. The confidential reference forms are included in the application packet, or available in PDF online.

MA Confidential Reference Form

Language

The language of instruction in the MA in Art History is English, and non-native English speakers are asked to provide TOEFL, IELTS or Cambridge English language examination results as proof of their fluency in written and spoken English.

Admissions Process

The admissions process is a multi-step team approach. Typically, a file will be reviewed by the MA Program Director and Associate Director, then forwarded for additional review to the Admissions Committee of which faculty and admission staff are members.

All applications are forwarded to the Admissions Committee. No one is eliminated for admission based on test scores, nationality, gender, ethnicity or other factors. Each criterion is considered to provide a total picture of an applicant's qualifications. This process allows the committee to select those candidates most likely to be successful in our MA Program.

Application Checklist:

The following are required for application:

Completed Application form.
Official transcripts of all university work and proof of degree.
For students who have attended non-U.S. universities, certified copies of all grades, (including courses taken), diplomas, certificates of program completion and any end-of-program or end-of-year examination results.
Students whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English proficiency test results.
Professional Statement. (see criteria)
Curriculum vitae
Two academic letters of reference. (see criteria)
Enclose a sample of your recent Art History or related academic writing with your application.
Non-refundable $100 application fee.