Your application will need to include the following materials:
- Transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation
- Required Essays and Statements
- Writing Sample
See below for details.
Transcripts
We require a scanned copy of your transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Scanned copies must be clearly legible and sized to print on standard 8½-by-11-inch paper. Transcripts that do not show degrees awarded must also be accompanied by a scanned copy of the diploma or degree certificate. If your academic transcripts were issued in a language other than English, both the original documents and certified English translations are required.
Transcripts and proof of degree documents for postsecondary degrees earned from institutions outside of the United States will be released to a third-party international credential evaluator to assess U.S. education system equivalencies. Beginning July 2023, a non-refundable fee for this service will be required before the application is processed.
Upon admission to the University of Denver, official transcripts will be required from each institution attended.
Letters of Recommendation
Three (3) letters of recommendation are required (professors that are able to comment on research and writing are best, but one can be from a museum or gallery employer). Letters should be submitted by recommenders through the online application.
Essays and Statements
Personal Statement Instructions
Most personal statements are two pages. Things to include:
- What are the field or topics in art history that excite you and why? Which faculty members in our department do you see as potentially providing guidance in helping you pursue an M.A. in these fields. If you are applying for the museum studies concentration, also discuss what aspects of museums excite or motivate you and why.
- What special skills, preparation or experiences do you bring to the program that will help you succeed here? Feel free to consider experiences beyond the academic realm, including your personal experiences and unique perspectives you may have to offer to the fields of art history and museums.
- What are your goals and motivations (personal/professional) in applying to the M.A. program, and how would the degree assist you towards your long-term objectives (career, further education, personal)?
- (optional) If you feel that your academic record and experience are not representative of your abilities and potential in graduate school, please let us know any details you wish to share.
Writing Sample
Advice on your writing sample:
Submit a research paper (with notes and bibliography, art history preferred). We use this to assess your writing, ability to formulate a research question, research skills and understanding of citation methods. There are no word count requirements, but most essays are 8-15 pages.
