PhD Art

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The University of Lincoln offers research programmes at MPhil and PhD levels in a range of fine and contemporary art specialisms in a vibrant artistic community. Research students can benefit from a variety of training opportunities to develop their research skills.

Research proposals are welcomed in contemporary fine art practice, current theoretical issues in art, as well as its histories, live art, and socially engaged practice.

While studying for an MPhil or PhD, students are expected to undertake independent research in an area of their choice, supervised and supported by a team of academics. Students have the opportunity to present their work in exhibitions and postgraduate seminars, attend conferences, and submit work for publication in refereed journals.

Research students are invited to join one of the School's thriving research groups and participate in its Critical Encounters Research Series alongside academic staff and other postgraduate students.

How You Study

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the majority of time is spent on independent study and research. Students will have meetings with their academic supervisors, but the frequency of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and stage of the programme.

Prioritising Face-to-Face Teaching

At the University of Lincoln, we strive to ensure our students’ experience is engaging, supportive, and academically challenging. Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we have adapted to Government guidance to keep our students, staff, and community safe. All remaining Covid-19 legal restrictions in England were lifted in February 2022 under the Government’s Plan for Living with Covid-19, and we have embraced a safe return to in-person teaching on campus. Where appropriate, face-to-face teaching is enhanced by the use of digital tools and technology and may be complemented by online opportunities where these support learning outcomes.

We are fully prepared to adapt our plans if changes in Government guidance make this necessary, and we will endeavour to keep current and prospective students informed.

How You Are Assessed

Students are expected to write an 80,000-word thesis on a subject previously agreed upon prior to admission to the College.

Students completing a practice-based PhD will be required to produce a substantial body of art and a thesis of between 25,000 - 40,000 words.

The thesis is examined by two examiners and includes a Viva Voce (oral) examination.

Fees and Funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.

Entry Requirements 2023-24

First or upper second class honours degree and a Master's degree. International students will also require the English Language at IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each part.

How to Apply

Normally we require a UK Master's degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a relevant subject, or relevant professional qualifications, and relevant experience in an associated area.

Please submit the following supporting information when making your application:

• a supporting statement (500 words). This should explain the motivation for studying your chosen programme
• a research proposal (1,000-2,000 words). This proposal should:
• Clearly define the topic you are interested in and demonstrate an understanding of your research area.
• Include two or three research questions that you will explore in your research.
• Outline the range of research methodologies you will use to undertake the research.
• Include a provisional bibliography of primary and secondary sources.
• Explain clearly how your research contributes to existing scholarship in the area; what gaps will it fill? How will it further knowledge of the area?
• Include a brief literature review of the key works that relate to your topic
• Sketch out a provisional plan of work that includes research and a timetable for the writing of chapters.
• If applying for PhD by Practice, please include a portfolio via PDF attachment or link to a webpage. The portfolio should comprise a maximum of fifteen images, with the title of the work, date, dimensions and medium for each image. Videos are welcome but should be no longer than ten minutes in total.

Please note: a research proposal will only be considered if there are academics in the subject with an interest in your field. Please study the staff profiles closely to make sure there is at least one member of staff whose interests intersect broadly with your own.

All suitable applicants will be invited for an interview, either in person or via Skype.

Career and Personal Development

An MPhil or PhD may enhance and progress careers in the art and design sector and can open up opportunities at senior levels in the arts and the creative economy. Research degrees can be key to pursuing an academic career, and graduates may go on to research or teach in higher education institutions.

How You Study

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the majority of time is spent in independent study and research. Students will have meetings with their academic supervisors, but the frequency of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and stage of programme.

Research Areas

The key to success on a postgraduate research programme is to find a research topic that you are passionate about and identify a supervisory team that has expertise in this area. The first thing that all prospective students should do is directly contact a member of staff from one of these areas that you feel is best aligned with your chosen research area to discuss the application process further. The School’s research areas include:

• Posthumanism
• Aesthetics
• Cognitive Science
• Art-science methodologies

How You Are Assessed

Students are expected to write an 80,000-word thesis on a subject previously agreed upon prior to admission to the College.

Students completing a practice-based PhD will be required to produce a substantial body of art and a thesis of between 25,000 - 40,000 words.

The thesis is examined by two examiners and includes a Viva Voce (oral) examination.

A doctoral qualification can be the capstone of academic achievement and often marks the beginning of a career in academia or research. A research programme provides the opportunity to become a true expert in your chosen field, while developing a range of valuable transferable skills that can support your career progression. A research-based degree is also the most direct pathway to an academic career. PhDs and research degrees are a great chance to expand your network and meet diverse people with similar interests, knowledge, and passion.

The University’s Doctoral School provides a focal point for Lincoln’s community of researchers, where ideas and experiences can be developed and shared across disciplines. It also offers support and training to help equip you for both academic and non-academic careers.