The graduate program in Art and Architectural History is dedicated to training the next generation of professors, museum professionals, and leaders in the digital humanities. PhD students at the University of Virginia gain a broad-based knowledge of the world's art and architectural history, solid fundamentals in a specialized field of study, and the skills needed to conduct original research. 

The Department of Art sponsors an interdisciplinary Program in Mediterranean Art and Archaeology, leading to the Ph.D degree. Founded in the 1980s, the program aims to foster a thorough acquaintance with Greek and Roman visual and material cultures, it also allows students to acquire a broad understanding of ancient culture.