Design and Creative Arts

Entry requirements

A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a related subject.

We welcome applications in any of the areas listed on this page and encourage prospective students to explore the research activity of our staff and to contact appropriate staff directly for advice before submitting an application.

Applicants will be required to submit a research proposal (approx. 2,000 words) with a provisional title and timetable. Practice-based students will be required to submit a portfolio in PDF format or as a weblink.

The School of Design and Creative Arts welcomes and encourages PhD applicants who reflect a diversity of race and nationality, religion or belief, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability. Applications from black, Asian and ethnic minorities are particularly encouraged by the School (and University) to study for a PhD.

You can find more information on the application process including where to apply on the dedicated webpage.

Months of entry

January, April, July, October

Course content

We have a thriving doctoral research community made up of full-time and part-time UK, EU, and international students. Through the impact of our research we strive to make a substantive contribution to academia, society, and the economy.

Studying for a doctorate offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. As a doctoral researcher, you will be responsible for managing your own schedule and developing your own ideas and approach, while being supported every step of the way.

The aim of a PhD is to make a novel contribution to knowledge and to discover something that no-one else has done before. You may have already identified the research area which interests you, in which case you will need to see if this is something we specialise in.

Information for international students

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and funding

Please see our website for a list of research degree funding and scholarships.