The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree, the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years. As well as your supervised original research, through your doctoral programme you will have opportunities to expand and develop your personal and professional skills. Doctoral candidates present their work at local and international conferences, and are encouraged to network and collaborate with a wide range of experts in their research field. This course is also offered at overseas and Manukau location. Art History Art History develops the skills necessary to analyse and interpret a world that is saturated with images. It provides a deeper understanding of different cultural traditions and historical periods, and teaches us the importance of creativity and the freedom of the imagination. You can study a range of art forms from many countries, from historical times to the present day. As well as painting, drawing and sculpture, you can explore photography, video, digital and computer-based art, performance art, cartoons, design, weaving, carving, prints and architecture. Research opportunities You will be supervised by our researchers and have access to a range of resources to assist you in your academic and professional development. We welcome research proposals in areas such as: Māori art Pacific art New Zealand art Early modern visual and material culture Court studies International contemporary art and visual cultures Gender, art and visual culture Psychological and phenomenological approaches to art Critical and postcolonial theory Indigenous museology Museums and curating Photography Performance art Art crime Programme structure: The University of Auckland PhD is a three-to-four year full-time advanced research degree. On entry to the PhD programme, you will be enrolled provisionally. By the end of your first year, you must meet a number of goals to be confirmed into the PhD programme, including developing a full thesis proposal. After confirmation, you will continue to work on your research before submitting your thesis for examination after three years and within four years of your start date. The examination process includes an oral exam. As part of your PhD study, you can take part in our doctoral skills programme, designed to help you achieve success in your research and develop skills for your future. We have a dedicated postgraduate careers advisor, and our library service includes specialist subject librarians to help you in your research. The central School of Graduate Studies provides dedicated support and advice for the doctoral community. Where could this programme take you? Our PhD graduates are successful in a wide range of fields and careers, as well as the traditional academic research career path. The PhD gives you extensive specialist and transferable skills, which are sought after in many sectors, including industry and government, and can even help you to develop entrepreneurship skills to run your own startup.