PhD in Art History

This academic year (2025-26), there are approximately 45 doctoral research students enrolled in the School of Art History. Our diverse community of doctoral students are working on theses in Art History, History of Photography, and Museum and Heritage Studies. Collectively, they make a vital contribution to our research and teaching activities.

The PhD is a research degree that involves completing a thesis of up to 80,000 words in length.

Students work independently, but receive regular supervisory support throughout their studies.

If you are considering applying, we expect you to first make contact with a faculty member within the School, who has the relevant research expertise to serve potentially as your supervisor. Some students benefit from joint supervision, and it is also possible to work with supervisors from different disciplines, such as (for instance) Modern Languages, History, or Medicine.

The degree is based on 3 years of full-time study, although an additional continuation year is available for completing the thesis. Students may also pursue the degree part time over a period of 6 years, also with the possibility of taking an additional continuation year.

No taught elements are associated with this degree.

The PhD in the School of Art History at St Andrews can be pursued either as a residential degree, or via remote study: however, remote study needs to be discussed and agreed with your prospective supervisor(s) prior to the commencement of the degree, and may not be compatible with all scholarships - please check any funding requirements carefully. Many students conduct fieldwork away from St Andrews at some point during their programme