Curious about studying History of Art PhDat University of Bristol? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy
Clifton Campus
Full Time
Sep 2026
4 Year
The Department of History of Art is a thriving and collegial centre for the study of art, visual culture and theory. Staff specialisms range from medieval altarpieces to collage and cartoons, from pre-Renaissance sculpture to contemporary art of the diaspora. We are interested in thinking across historical periods and through a variety of critical approaches. We encourage you to participate in the stimulating intellectual and social life of the department, with regular research seminars and guest lectures, not to mention annual events such as the Autumn Art Lectures. We support interdisciplinary approaches and have expertise in topics such as the interrelationship between art and music, or art and writing, as well as issues of art and race. We also have close links with many other departments in the school and faculty, as well as with national and local galleries and museums.
Research project undertaken across three years (full-time, plus a writing up period), culminating in an 80,000 word thesis.
Accommodation fee - Living expenses - As a guide, most students spend between £9,000 and £15,000 per year including accommodation.