Research Degrees

Research degrees are awarded in recognition of significant contributions to knowledge and scholarship, produced through original research and self directed study. They embody significant personal achievements at the forefront of understanding, through which new ways of making or doing, interpreting, articulating and presenting are developed.

Practice-based research, and research focused on interpreting practice, are both centred on the exploration of knowledge through the investigation of concepts, products and processes. Artists and designers are in unique positions to explore these topics, to study creative and subjective experience from highly informed and skilled perspectives, and to voice new approaches to our ways of understanding our intellectual, emotional, cultural, social, and political motivations.

Our research students are important members of our Research and Consultancy Network, and work with academic staff who are internationally renowned for their research and creative practice. Research degrees at the University College are offered in partnership with the University of the Arts London, creating opportunities for collaborative research between the two institutions. Our research degrees are supported by regular seminars and training events held in Norwich and London, extensive specialist and technical resources, and a year-round programme of exhibitions.

How to Apply

We welcome proposals for research degree study in the areas of Art and Design Interpretation and Curation, and Animation and Sound Design. Within these areas we offer supervisory expertise in the subjects of Animation, Sound Design, International Surrealism, Conceptualism, Curation, Sculpture, Textiles, Design History, and Typography.

Our normal minimum entry requirement is an upper second class honours degree in a relevant discipline. However, an MA in an appropriate subject is considered to be a particularly valuable preparation for a research degree. Applicants not meeting either of these criteria will also be considered if they can demonstrate alternative relevant qualifications, professional experience and an understanding of research methodologies appropriate to their proposed programme of study.

We welcome applications for study towards a research degree throughout the year. Applicants should complete the University College's Preliminary Application to Study for a Research Degree form in the first instance. Your application should be accompanied by a 1,000 word proposal, which provides a detailed overview of your proposed research.

Applications are considered by our Research Degrees Committee, which meets four times a year. If the Committee approves your application you will be invited to attend a formal interview to discuss your proposal. At the interview you may be asked to give a presentation of your practice-based or text-based work. You are advised to discuss your ideas with an individual member of staff before making an application.