Researched selection · reviewed 23 October 2026 · unranked
Best Art PhD Programs
An unranked selection of PhD programs in art, design and art history whose records meet at least four published evidence criteria, with research pathways shown as published.
Not a league table. “Top” and “best” are used in the ordinary sense of a short list chosen against stated criteria; within each group the order is alphabetical. No institution paid to be included, and sponsorship is separate from editorial selection.
North America
Temple University: PhD in Art History
University · Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Research doctoratePhDDoctor of Philosophy in Art HistoryTuition not published
Why it is here: Meets 4 of 7 evidence criteria: a dedicated degree or named major in art history; published admissions requirements; published studio, workshop or digital facilities for the campus; published student-support or research information.
Evidence: Dedicated degree or named major; Admissions facts published; Campus facilities published; Student support or research information published; Funding published: Tyler merit-based scholarships, assistantships and fellowships
Limitations: Not published on the pages we checked: verified accreditation or validation record; tuition published; study structure published. This reflects what an institution publishes, not necessarily the quality of its teaching.
Europe
Goldsmiths, University of London: MPhil/PhD Art
University · New Cross, London, England, United Kingdom
Research doctoratePhDMPhil/PhD ArtTuition not published
Why it is here: Meets 4 of 7 evidence criteria: a dedicated degree or named major in fine arts; a published study structure; published studio, workshop or digital facilities for the campus; published student-support or research information.
Evidence: Dedicated degree or named major; Study structure published; Campus facilities published; Student support or research information published
Limitations: Not published on the pages we checked: verified accreditation or validation record; tuition published; admissions facts published. This reflects what an institution publishes, not necessarily the quality of its teaching.
Oceania
RMIT University: PhD (Art)
University · Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Research doctoratePhDDoctor of Philosophy (PhD)A$39,360 per year, international students, 2027
Why it is here: Meets 4 of 7 evidence criteria: a dedicated degree or named major in fine arts; published tuition with currency, basis and year; published admissions requirements; a published study structure.
Evidence: Dedicated degree or named major; Tuition published; Admissions facts published; Study structure published
Limitations: Not published on the pages we checked: verified accreditation or validation record; campus facilities published; student support or research information published. This reflects what an institution publishes, not necessarily the quality of its teaching.