Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Please read through the following list before contacting the department.
Is this the Fine Arts Department?
It used to be. As of July 1, 1998 the name was changed to Department of History of Art and Architecture to more accurately reflect what the faculty in the Department teach and research.
Where can I obtain an admissions application?
Online applications are encouraged. Applications for the following academic year are generally available after September 1 from the GSAS admissions office. Applications can also be requested by phone (617-495-5315) or by writing to: Harvard University, Holyoke Center 350, Cambridge, MA 02138-3654.
How do I make an appointment to speak with a faculty member?
Most faculty keep their own appointment schedules so you should contact the faculty member directly. A list of faculty telephone numbers is available on the web site. If you want to see the Director of Undergraduate Studies, telephone (617) 495-2310 or the Director of Graduate Studies (617) 495-2377.
How to I make an appointment for a prospective student interview?
Prospective student interviews are limited and are not procedural. Contact faculty with your specific field of interest directly. General questions may be answered by staff or the Director of Graduate Studies. Prospective student interviews do not take place after the admissions process has begun or after January 15.
What is the minimum GRE score or GPA needed to be admitted?
There is no minimum score or grade point average. A candidate's complete background is taken into account in the admissions evaluation.
Which writing sample should I send with my admissions application?
Send only one writing sample and the one that best represents your work of a reasonable length.
Where is / when is the class/ section/ reading/lecture taking place?
Lists of course meeting times and locations are available at the Registrar's office web-site. Questions about section meeting times and locations should be directed to the Head TF of the course. [Link to FAS Registrar]
Where is the Department located?
The Department is located on the second floor of the Sackler Museum just outside the northeast corner of Harvard Yard, on the corner of Broadway and Quincy Streets, opposite the Fogg Museum. The office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The open hours of the museum vary.
Is there an MFA degree or MA program?
This program is for a Ph.D in art or architectural history. This department has no terminal MA degree program. The Extension School, (617) 495-4024, has separate degree offerings.
How may I consult a scholar about a particular art work or arrange an appraisal?
Contact the Harvard University Art Museums (617) 495-2378 and they will refer you to the appropriate museum department.
Could I model for art classes?
Contact the Visual and Environmental Studies Department (617) 495-3251.
AM Degree
Do I automatically receive a master's degree (A.M.) after my second year or do I have to apply for one?
A student must apply for the A.M. degree; it is not automatically granted.
DISSERTATION
What happens if I file the Application for Degree and do not complete the dissertation before the deadline?
You must file the Degree Reactivation Form. The first reactivation is free; there is a fee for any time thereafter.
Will I be charged a fee when completing the paperwork to receive the doctoral degree?
A one-time dissertation-processing fee of $115 will be charged to cover copyrighting and archival costs.
CORRESPONDENCE
Can I have my mail sent to the Department?
The Department discourages students from arranging to have mail delivered to the Department because the size of student mailboxes cannot accommodate large mail deliveries.
Does the Department forward my mail?
No, the Department does not forward mail.
What happens to my departmental mail when I am away on a Leave of Absence or as a Traveling Scholar?
An out-of-residence student should request that a friend collect his or her mail or arrange for mail to be sent to a permanent address (such as a parent's home).
Am I allowed to look at my departmental file?
Yes, a student may ask the Coordinator to review his or her file at any time.
Can I order Harvard business cards as a graduate student?
Kinko's in Harvard Square also has copyright permission to use the Harvard logo.
How can I register for a post.harvard.edu email address after I graduate?
Graduating students can register for email forwarding service.
Links to Harvard University Art Museums
Arts in Education
Museum Studies
Straus Center for Conservation, HUAM |
