1. University of California Santa Cruz
  2. Program
  3. Phd
  4. PhD Visual Studies

PhD Visual Studies

NA On Campus Phd Program

University of California Santa Cruz

Program Overview

The History of Art and Visual Culture Department (HAVC) at the University of California, Santa Cruz offers a course of study leading to the Ph.D. in Visual Studies. The Ph.D. is designed to steep our graduates in the most theoretically relevant methodologies for understanding the significance of visual artifacts and the social and cultural qualities of human vision (termed visuality); provide students with exposure to a range of cultural perspectives and visual artifacts drawn from around the world; and cultivate in our graduates the necessary skills and knowledge to secure and excel in academic and curatorial positions. The program is both interdisciplinary and flexible. Students work closely with their advisors and the director of graduate studies to craft a personalized course of study that advances their intellectual and professional goals.

Program Key Stats

$37900 (Annual cost)



58 %

Eligibility Criteria


80
158
167
6.5
80

Additional Information & Requirements

Personal history/statementStatement of PurposeWriting SampleCurrent GRE Scores (General Test only)Three letters of recommendation (MUST be submitted online)Transcripts. It will now be possible to upload unofficial transcripts for the application. Official transcrips will not be required until an admitted student accepts. If you are a non-native English speaker you will be required to take an English language competency exam. UC Santa Cruz accepts the TOEFL or IELTS test. Official scores must also be sent

Career Options

  • Teaching
  • Museum Work
  • Publishing
  • Freelance Writing
  • Art Librarian
  • Visual Resource Materials Librarian
  • Independent Producer: TV and Film Documentaries
  • Preservation and Conservation
  • Architectural Conservation
  • Art Gallery and Auction House

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