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 staffProvide high-calibre students with training in relevant research skills and to offer excellent specialist supervision of their individual research in these fieldsProvide a stimulating environment in which students can reach their full intellectual potentialHelp 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 researchOn completion of the MPhil, students should have:made the transition in learning style and pace from undergraduate to postgraduate levelacquired the necessary research skills in the use of bibliographical, archival and museum resources as relevant to their field of studygained practice in the use of the languages and archival skills relevant to their chosen research areagained confidence in the choice and use of different methodological approaches and theoretical perspectivesrefined 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 andacquired the proficiency needed to present in writing a coherent and sustained piece of academic research.