PhD in Theatre and Performance

Supervision

At the start of your PhD studies, you will be assigned a primary and "shadow" supervisor, both of whom will provide support and specialist guidance in your chosen field. Full-time research students usually meet with their primary supervisor at least once every four weeks, particularly in their first year of study.

We have found that it is useful for our postgraduates to reflect on their progress at regular points during their studies. Twice a year, all PhD students are consequently asked to submit self-evaluation forms to their primary and secondary supervisors. These evaluations form the basis of a bi-annual review, at which the student and primary supervisor discuss the progress of the research, and which offer the student the opportunity to identify any areas in which they would like further support or guidance.

After their first year of study, some of our postgraduate students contribute to our undergraduate (or occasionally MA) teaching in the Theatre Workshop and the School more generally. Typically, the teaching will involve running seminars, but it may also be possible to take on some studio-based teaching and to run practical workshops. Doctoral and undergraduate students alike find this a rewarding experience.

Students undertaking teaching complete a short, preparative course ('Teaching Practice', a module on the Doctoral Development Programme which is part of their research training and skills development). They are also supported by a tutor for part-time tutors and have regular teaching circles during term, to discuss teaching methods, review progress and exchange ideas.

Assesment

The PhD is traditionally examined by a thesis of c.75,000 words, the research and writing of which usually takes three years (six years part-time), and an oral examination (a viva) on this work. However, it is also possible for researchers in the field of Theatre and Performance to submit a shorter written component (c.40,000 words), alongside practice which may more effectively communicate their research, and which accords with the definition of a PhD as a piece of original research which makes significant contributions to scholarly debates.

There are different possible and plausible models under which practice may be examined so as to contribute to the final submission, and if you are interested in this route then we would be keen to discuss and explore these with you. In all cases, what the degree offers is a truly exciting opportunity for you to push forward the boundaries of knowledge, and to become an authority in your chosen field.

Proficiency in English

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to submit evidence with their application of proficiency in English – either an IELTS or TOEFL score. Our standard English language requirements for all PhD applicants are set at the University’s Advanced level tariff: an overall IELTS grade of 7.5 with a minimum score of 6.5 in each component. Students applying for research degrees in Linguistics may also be considered at the Higher level: an overall grade of 7.0 with a minimum score of 6.0 in each component.