theartman1193

I went through this last year (and the process sucks). From my experience, I got accepted to a few PhD programs that didn't interview me (surprising, right?). I had a few "informal interviews/ chats" with some of the folks at the other programs (when I was applying and emailing sometimes profs wanted to speak with me on the phone, meet up at CAA, etc). Random patterns I noticed: (a) most decisions came out Thursday or Friday late afternoons, (b) acceptance letters came out earlier than rejections (weeks ahead at times), and (c) bigger programs sent out decisions for different fields of study at different times. Hope it helps, somewhat.

There's a few steams on here regarding GRE scores. I wouldn't sweat it. I would pay more attention to your statement of purpose, written sample. As a forewarning, applying to grad school is a crapshoot. Many situations regarding a lack of funding and political issues can arise. Among all these factors at play, the GRE is probably the least important.

I totally second brown eyed girl. CUNY has some top notch scholars in 20th century. I also would look into departmental methodologies. Some departments are quite intense with their practice of social art history while others are quite indebted to psychoanalysis. Sorry to bring up a cliche, though many of these rankings promote comparing apples to oranges. Each scholar and each department have different things to offer. I would urge you to pick a position that puts you in a decent funding position and a helpful advisor.

I think the 19th century era folks - many aren't taking grad students at the moment (though I did hear some may take a few more students in the next years). It also seems as though alot of folks in that era will probably retire over the next years. Many of those also seem to be social art historians (think of TJ Clark and his students). With that said, sometimes it can be quite neat to work with someone who has an interest in your field of study, but its not his/her major era. I think someone who shares a similar methodology to you can be just as helpful and interesting to work with. Most people seem to be geared towards the 20th century nowadays....

Hey, U Rochester has a fairly eminent program in visual theory and studies as well. Though, most larger programs have at least one specialist dealing with critical theory, visual studies, etc. I believe there was a previous thread on this...somewhere. UW-Madison has a visual culture program as well. You may want to check out the dissertation list - http://www.caareviews.org/dissertations/355/in_progress There seem to be a handful at CUNY.

They seem to be placing nicely!

I had some very delightful and helpful phone calls with professors before I applied. Definitely with a shot at! It can also give you a chance to "feel out" the department's ethos. Have you looked at MIT?

Go for it! I applied to an array of MA and PhD programs and am currently attending a well-reguarded PhD program. You never know, though I think sometimes if you chat with a potential beforehand, you can get a bit of a "read."

I personally haven't, though others may have more to say. If you are looking for a funded MA, I have had colleagues who went to Williams (received partial tuition remission), UMass Amherst, Tulane, Wisconsin, and Davis (stipend and tuition remission). Hope it helps!

I would turn to your school's writing center, perhaps?

For modern/contemporary, I would look into a MA. There are some that offer funding. Programs are accepting far fewer students and just because you get an offer from PhD program, does not necessarily mean you will be also receiving a desirable (or livable) stipend to live off of.

I mean - they do to an extent. But from my experiences and colleagues, the percentage who has been receiving them is significantly lower. The packages are also smaller. It will be interesting now that Michael Holly and Darby English have left the building over there...

I don't believe Williams offers full-funding and living stipends as much as they have in the past. It seems that they have cut drastically back.

I would look into funding situations at the institutions. Some of the MAs being offered nowadays have turned into "cash cows" for universities. In exchange for your money, the institution may give you a lack of support. I can't give specifics as I went directly into a PhD program. Other programs I have heard of include SMU, Tulane, Wisconsin, and Hunter. Also, I would say e-mail the folks if it makes you feel better or you really do have questions. Some places are quite candid in their answers and may offer you some insight into the admissions process. However, other places seal their lips.

I think there is a decent format and example on the CAA website. I wouldn't sweat it that much. I think your effort is best spent in perfecting a writing sample and a statement of purpose. I'd argue that those two elements along with your letters of recommendation are the most important aspects of your application.