Master of Arts in Modern Art History, Theory, and Criticism: Admissions Requirements

The Department of Art History, Theory, and Criticism at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) requires an online application for its Master of Arts (MA) in Modern Art History, Theory, and Criticism program. You will need a valid credit card and current email address in order to complete the form. Please review the following requirements carefully before submitting your application:

• Applications for the fall semester must be submitted no later than January 15. No applications are accepted for spring semester.
• There is an $80 nonrefundable application fee ($100 for international applications). The application fee is discounted by 50% from September 1 through November 30.
• You must upload one 500- to 750-word statement that describes your work or research. Discuss how you came to focus on the medium, body of work, or academic area you wish to pursue at the graduate level. Also discuss future directions or goals for your work and describe how this area of study is particularly suited to your professional goals. Upload your statement of purpose to your online application.
• In addition to your application, you must submit an ePortfolio by 11:59 p.m. (CST) on January 16. Your portfolio should include a 15- to 25-page critical writing sample that demonstrates knowledge of the field, ability in research, and clarity of argumentation. Submissions should be written on a topic in modern or contemporary art history from the 19th century to the present, but papers dealing with earlier historical eras will be accepted if they are in dialogue with current debates and methods. Additionally, topics dealing with relevant theories and philosophies, visual studies, and film studies will be considered.

You also must submit an official college transcript and three letters of reference for admission into the program. You can ask your references to upload their letters to your online application or mail them directly to the school. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required. The department may contact some applicants for an interview after reviewing all submitted applications.

For more information on the application and admissions process, visit the graduate admissions website.

Ready to apply? Complete your online application now.