Apply for a Research Degree

Norwich University of the Arts welcomes postgraduate research (PGR) degree proposals leading to MPhil or PhD qualifications. The validating body for PGR degrees undertaken at Norwich University of the Arts is the University of the Arts London (UAL).

Funding and Fees

Doctoral Research Studentships and Bursaries for 24-25 entry

Norwich University of the Arts is seeking outstanding applicants for a select number of Doctoral Studentships and Bursaries to study on its research degrees programme.

Doctoral Studentship awards support a full stipend for three and a half years at RCUK rates plus payment of tuition fees.

Doctoral Bursary awards support the payment of tuition fees (three and a half years full-time study).

Doctoral Studentships and Bursaries are open to both UK and overseas applicants who wish to pursue research in a creative practice or in a historical/theoretical studies field related to one or more of the University’s academic disciplines. We particularly welcome innovative practice-based research projects and would encourage applications to work with one of the following PhD supervisors in their areas of research.

Professor Experience Bryon (Acting and Performance Practice)

Dr Ellie Nixon (Performance Practice)

Professor Hilary Carlisle (Textiles and Design)

Dr Mark Wilsher (Education and Curatorial)

Dr Sarah Horton (Fine Art Practice)

Professor Teresa Stoppani (Architecture)

Applications will be considered on merit, considering the quality of the proposal, the candidate’s academic and/or work profile, and supervisor availability. At Norwich University of the Arts we have a commitment to critical creative practice and moving research and knowledge exchange to the core of our mission, including the establishment of a  research and knowledge exchange institute.

Proposed projects should address an aspect of the University’s Research and Knowledge Exchange Strategy 2022-2027.

Please refer to our funding page for current information on fees and postgraduate loans.

How to apply

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

Applicants should be aware that meeting the University’s minimum entry requirements does not guarantee entry. This is only one of the factors considered, and relevant experience, references, and the availability of suitable supervisors and resources are also taken into account.

Initially, applicants should submit a Preliminary Application to Study for a Research Degree, in which you will provide details of your qualifications, employment history, research experience, outputs, two academic references and a 1,000-word outline of your proposed programme of research. We may also ask for examples of your work. Further guidance on the application and consideration process can be found in Postgraduate Research Degree Application Guidance.

Completed applications and enquiries should be submitted to researchdegrees@norwichuni.ac.uk

Deadline for Applications and Open Evening

Preliminary applications for entry in 2024-25 should be submitted by either the following deadlines to researchdegrees@norwichuni.ac.uk.

Deadline 1: Friday 1 December 2023

Deadline 2: Friday 12 April 2024

If you wish to apply to the PGR programme, we advise attending our online Open Evening on Thursday 21 March from 5.30pm.

International applicants

All international (non-European Economic Area – EEA) applicants will need to apply for a Student Visa under the UK Visa and Immigration Points Based System (PBS) as we do not offer distance learning programmes. Please note that it is not possible for overseas students to study on a part-time basis if you need a Student Visa to enter the UK.

The University’s International Office can provide advice and guidance on the visa application process. However, students should defer to the UKVI Student Visa Website for official advice and guidance.

If English is not your first language you will be required to demonstrate evidence of having met the University’s English language entry requirements.

Please refer to the Postgraduate Research Degree Application Guidance for further details. If you apply to Norwich and are offered a place on a course, you will need to pay a deposit to secure your place.

Additional documents for download

• Research Ethics Code of Practice (22/02/2024)
• Research Ethics Checklist (22/02/2024)
• Postgraduate Research Fees Payment Policy 2022-23 (18/10/21)
• Student Protection Plan (05/09/2018) (60k)
• Refund and Compensation Policy (05/09/2018) (62k)

Application Guidance