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.

The educational aims of the programme are as follows:

• Provide teaching and learning to postgraduate students in the history of art and architecture in a range of fields linked to the research interests of the staff
• Provide high-calibre students with training in relevant research skills and to offer excellent specialist supervision of their individual research in these fields
• Provide a stimulating environment in which students can reach their full intellectual potential
• Help students develop a wide range of intellectual abilities and skills, which will enable them to make a significant contribution in their chosen careers and walks of life, including academic teaching and research

On completion of the MPhil, students should have:

• made the transition in learning style and pace from undergraduate to postgraduate level;
• acquired the necessary research skills in the use of bibliographical, archival and museum resources as relevant to their field of study;
• gained practice in the use of the languages and archival skills relevant to their chosen research area;
• gained confidence in the choice and use of different methodological approaches and theoretical perspectives;
• refined their critical skills in the examination, recording and analysis of works of art and/or architecture, especially at first hand (through travel and fieldwork if appropriate);
• gained experience in oral and written presentation, and in a sustained piece of research in the form of a dissertation of not more than 15,000 words; and
• acquired the proficiency needed to present in writing a coherent and sustained piece of academic research.