Picture of some students studying at the base of the stairwell

The Courtauld is an excellent centre for pursuing research in the history of art. Our research facilities are exceptional, including The Courtauld Gallery , the book and picture libraries, and access to other resources across London and beyond. We have by far the largest body of postgraduate art history students in the UK, and we support an active research environment in which dialogue between staff and students is central.

Research students may be registered with MPhil/PhD status, or with occasional student status. 


MPhil/PhD students register at The Courtauld for the duration of their research, complete all monitoring excercises, and are awarded the degree at the end of their studies. Students may enrol for a full- or part-time PhD. Full-time study is for three years, part-time for six.


Occasional students are usually registered at another university, but wish to spend a period of time at The Courtauld.  There are no assessments of their work, and no awards granted to occasional students.