Research

How to apply: MPhil/PhD

For direct entry to a programme of study leading to the research degree of MPhil/PhD, prospective applicants should already have a recognised Masters degree in an area of art or design.

The normal route to a PhD is by registration for MPhil/PhD with transfer to PhD registration during the second year of study. Candidates should be aware that research can be practice-based or text-based and that a written dissertation will form part of the submission.

Refer to the School's research web pages for descriptions of our major areas of research activities.

Initially, you should send a draft research proposal to the University Research and Graduate School Office for Art and Design and we will advise you whether we have the relevant expertise to take the application further. We will then put you in touch with an appropriate academic who will give initial feedback on your draft proposal.

Following this, you should complete a University application form. Along with the application form, you should send us your revised research proposal (1,000-2,000 words).

If at any stage in this process you want to discuss what to do next, you are welcome to contact the Research and Graduate School Office for guidance.

The completed application form and research proposal should be sent to:
Research Degree Admissions
University Research and Graduate School Office for Art and Design
School of Art and Design
Nottingham Trent University
Burton Street
Nottingham NG1 4BU
UK

All applicants for MPhil / PhD who meet the criteria for acceptance and for whom supervision may be available are offered an interview to discuss their application in more detail. This may be undertaken by telephone or by other means if the applicant is based overseas.

How to apply: Higher Doctorates (DArts / DDes)

The application process for these awards involves the initial submission of a portfolio detailing your career to date.

This portfolio should include a full resumé of exhibitions, design projects, commissions, performances or other relevant work, and a proposal for a further project that can be completed within 12 months and presented for consideration by the examiners in the UK. If this portfolio is deemed to provide good grounds for consideration for the award, the candidate is then asked to commence work on the proposed project.

Prior to submitting a formal application, prospective applicants for the DArts or DDes awards are advised to consult directly with the Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies, to discuss the exact nature of the initial portfolio submission. Applications can be made at any time of the year.

Any queries?
Please contact our Research office on +44 (0)115 848 2177 or email us.