History of Art and Architecture

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a first-class or high 2:1 honours bachelor's degree in the history of art, or a closely related subject.

Months of entry

October

Course content

Since the Department of History of Art's foundation in 1970, we have established ourselves as one of the world’s leading centres for advanced research in the field. We aim to deliver a rigorous, stimulating education in the history of art and architecture, with a strong emphasis on the study of works of art and architecture at first-hand. We are proud of our team of staff and students, whose impressive performance is critical to sustaining and enhancing the national and international reputation created by our distinguished alumni.

Cambridge itself is, from an art historical point of view, a stunning city in which to live and work. We make full use of Cambridge’s unique holdings of art and architecture, including the Fitzwilliam Museum (on our doorstep), Kettle’s Yard and the University Library, as well as the buildings and collections of the Colleges. The Hamilton Kerr Institute at Whittlesford, a department of the Fitzwilliam Museum, is dedicated to the conservation of easel paintings and also contributes to our teaching and research.

The MPhil in the History of Art and Architecture is a nine-month course providing advanced study and training in research in specialised areas of the subject. It is intended as a self-contained programme of art-historical study, but also serves as a preparation for students intending to proceed to doctoral research.

Please note that this is a research degree with taught methodological elements, not a conversion course for students whose first degree lies in another subject.