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Duncan Robinson (The Master)
Dr Lucy Donkin
Numbers in individual Colleges are small. The Department has around 80 undergraduates and over 30 graduate students. There are usually between 4 and 6 undergraduates reading the subject in Magdalene.
Across the University the subject attracts around 125 applications each year and expects an intake of some 25 students, including deferred entrants. Magdalene would expect to receive about 5-8 applications and to accept 1 - 2 students annually.
The History of Art Tripos at Cambridge consists of a one-year Part I, followed in the second year by Part IIa, and in the third year by Part II b. Part I comprises a general survey based on art and architecture in and around Cambridge, including the collections of the Fitzwilliam Museum, Kettle's Yard and the Colleges. In their first term, students study the making of art and in the second term, its meaning(s). In addition to Part I examinations at the end of the Easter Term, students submit a long essay.
In Part II students choose two options each year from a range of Special Subjects in the history of European art and architecture as well as studying the history and theory of the subject itself. They also research and write a final year dissertation on a subject of their own choice.
The small size of the Department means that much of the teaching is organised departmentally, to ensure that all students receive the same level of individual attention for which Cambridge is renowned. Students in both parts of the Tripos receive regular weekly supervisions; lectures and seminars are given in the Department or the Fitzwilliam Museum. Students may expect 4 - 6 contact hours per week including supervisions and other classes. In addition to occasional field trips to museums, galleries and other sites, students are encouraged to travel independently to gain first-hand knowledge of the works of art and architecture they are studying.
The History of Art Tripos is for those who are particularly interested in the history and criticism of art and architecture in Western Europe. At Magdalene there is no special preference as to the types of subject studied at school: academic subjects including languages (ancient and modern), History, English are all useful in providing historical and critical skills, but we do not require Art or the History of Art. A mix of qualifications including sciences is also acceptable.
A*AA at A2-level. Post A level candidates are normally considered for an unconditional offer. Successful candidates will normally achieve or have achieved good results in any additional A/S levels taken in year 12 or year 13.
We welcome applications for deferred entry from candidates with relevant gap-year plans.
These are as a rule discouraged since they stand a small chance of success. In particular, candidates are advised not to give up a place at another good University in order to re-apply to Cambridge without giving their decision careful thought.
Mature students are admitted from time to time, and usually find that they are successful and happy in their course. If you wish to be considered as a mature applicant for History of Art you should be engaged on or have recently completed a course such as A-level, OU or and Access course. If you are in any doubt about your preparation for a university course, or your choice of college, you are advised to contact us to discuss your individual circumstances before making your application.
We encourage applicants from all types of school and college background and although the information about offers given above indicates a typical requirement, each candidate is looked at in the light of his or her individual circumstances.
Magdalene College offers travel grants to deserving candidates. The Department is unable to provide financial support for students except for small grants in the case of hardship. Excellent results in examinations are rewarded by scholarships and prizes by the College.
Candidates will normally be asked to two interviews, a tutorial or general interview and a subject interview. They are asked to submit two marked essays, preferably in different subjects, in advance of the interviews. Interviewers will not be looking for specialist knowledge of the History of Art as much as for intellectual potential, visual sensitivity, and evidence of enthusiasm for the subject. Candidates should be able to explain why they are attracted to the subject even if they have not been able to study it at school. They may therefore be asked about what they have read or what practical steps they have taken to advance their interest. The subject interviewer may also ask them to comment on photos or reproductions of works of art and architecture. Students may wish to attend either a College Open Day or the one arranged annually by the History of Art Department. A prospectus and other information is also available from the History of Art Department, 1 - 5 Scroope Terrace, Cambridge CB2 1PX and from the Admissions pages of the University's website.
Graduates in the History of Art at Cambridge go on to a wide variety of careers. They may not be subject-specific, but if they are they may include further academic study and teaching, employment in art galleries and museums, heritage management, conservation, journalism and arts administration.
The College supplies a preliminary reading list on request.
June 2011
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©2012 Magdalene College, Cambridge, CB3 0AG
Registered Charity Number 1137542