Master of Arts in Art History

Master of Arts in Art History Degree Program

The MA seeks a diverse pool of applicants eager to pursue rigorous graduate study in an international environment while benefitting from the many opportunities for intellectual and professional growth available in Rome.  Applications are welcome from holders of a Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent from an accredited university who have completed at least twelve semester credit hours or the equivalent in the history of art with a grade-point average of at least 3.0 (B) or the equivalent. Seminars and courses are conducted in English and thus require proficiency in the English language, both spoken and written. Reading knowledge of Italian, French, or German at the time of entry into the program is strongly recommended. 

How to apply

Admission is based on a review of the following items:

  • A completed application form;
  • A personal statement of 600 words detailing your reasons for interest in the program;
  • A sample (10-15 pages) of your academic writing in English, with footnotes and bibliography;
  • A CV/Resume
  • Official transcripts of all post-secondary (undergraduate and graduate) study undertaken to date. Transcripts not in English or Italian must be accompanied by a certified English translation;
  • Proof of completion of a Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent at an accredited university, if not attested in the official transcripts*;
  • GRE scores - optional, but strongly recommended for applicants wishing to be considered for funding. Our GRE code is 7772;
  • Three letters of reference from professors evaluating your academic work and appropriateness for graduate study;
  • Evidence of English language proficiency in the form of an official letter from the institution at which the applicant holds a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) attesting that English was the principal language of instruction for the degree; or scores on one of the following English language proficiency tests. 

*Students graduating in the spring are welcome to apply, but should the applicant be accepted they are requested to submit their final transcripts and diploma prior to the start of the program.

 
English language proficiency tests accepted Minimum score required 
IELTS - Academic 7.0 in each subtest
C1 Advanced (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English) 185
PTE (Pearson Test of English - Academic version)   70

50 dollar/50 euro non-refundable application fee is required for the processing of the application. The application fee is waived for current John Cabot University students and alumni. Please note that only U.S. and Canadian citizens may pay in dollars. Payment options. 

Where to send your application materials
All elements of the application are to be submitted via email to [email protected]. Transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized exam scores (IELTS, GRE, etc.) must be emailed directly by the granting institution, professor, or examining board. Admission is competitive. For an application to be considered, all required materials must be received by published deadline.  

Application deadlines

Deadline Name Application Deadline Notification Date Deposit Deadline Full Payment Deadline
Early Action February 1 February 15 May 1 July 15
Regular Decision March 15 April 3 May 1 July 15
Late Decision I * May 1 Rolling admission Upon acceptance July 15
Late Decision II ** June 30 Rolling admission Upon acceptance July 15

* last deadline for students who need JCU housing and/or a study visa
** only available to students who do not require a study visa

For further questions about the MA program or application process please contact: [email protected].