Doctor of Philosophy Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)

The MPhil / PhD Award at AUB is validated by the University of the Arts London (UAL).

The format of study for a research degree (MPhil/PhD) is very different from a taught degree. As a research student you will engage in a programme of independent research and/or practice based work. Following discussion with the Director of Studies you will be assigned one, or sometimes two, second supervisors with whom you will plan your programme of research and with whom you will have regular tutorials to support your study throughout your time as a student.

Your research may combine the practice, theory and /or history of your specialist area and you will be guided in your study to define clearly and persuasively what is original and innovative about your chosen topic and how best to present and disseminate your arguments and findings, whether this is substantially a written thesis or via a combination of practice (for example, exhibition, installation) and text-based critique.

Because of the individual nature of your study, your requirements (for example, for studio space or other specialist resources) will be discussed with your supervisor.

Students will register for full/part-time study, in the first instance for MPhil qualification and, following successful upgrade through Confirmation, for PhD.

As well as tutorials with your supervisors, you will participate in a programme of research methods training. In your first year of registration, there will be three separate weeks attendance in London at the University of the Arts London Research Network (RNUAL).

This will be complemented by a separate programme to be attended regularly at AUB. Workshops will be provided, for example, on preparing a research proposal, presentation skills and writing skills.

The MPhil degree is awarded in recognition of a systematic, well documented and well argued study which demonstrates a degree of originality and critical awareness. It should also demonstrate a distinct contribution to scholarship. It is an award in its own right or, alternatively, it may be undertaken as preparation for a PhD.

The PhD is awarded in recognition of a significant contribution to knowledge and understanding. The thesis should contain material which is worthy of publication or public presentation. The doctorate must represent a more substantial individual achievement and demonstrate recognisably greater depth than an MPhil.

Entry requirements

You will normally be expected to have a Masters Level qualification in an appropriate subject to be considered for registration for MPhil / PhD at AUB.

In some instances, applicants without this requirement may be considered if they can demonstrate appropriate alternative qualifications, professional experience or previous research and an understanding of research methodologies appropriate to their proposed programme of study.

Those for whom English is not a first language will have to pass an International Language Test (IELTS) scoring at least 7.0+ (with a 7.0 in writing).

Applicants should be aware that meeting the University's minimum entry requirements does not guarantee entry. This is only one of the factors taken into account when the University makes its decision.

Many other factors are also important, such as the availability of suitable supervisors and resources; suitability for research degree study at AUB; relevant experience; and references.