An Honours year in Art History focuses on developing and consolidating the knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate study, with particular emphasis on utilising those skills in a sustained and purposeful way by conducting independent research. It marks the transition from student to scholar. The program combines coursework with a research thesis. Its primary objectives are: to enable students with an adequate background in Art History to pursue further study in one specialist area of research; to enhance students' capacity for employment in the visual arts sector; to enhance students' capacity for independent research; and to enable students to acquire the research skills necessary for postgraduate study. Apart from content knowledge, employers and professionals value Honours graduates' advanced communication skills, capacity for independent work, and ability to think critically and write substantial reports. Honours graduates are trained to a standard sufficient for enrolment in postgraduate research degrees, and for a specialist career. At The University of Queensland, achievement of First Class or IIA Honours in Art History allows direct entry to the Doctor of Philosophy in Art History or the Doctor of Philosophy in Art History by Exhibition.