Research Degree PhD

As a PhD student, you will be supported by a supervisory team of two academic staff members from Rose Bruford College. We welcome applications for both traditional thesis-based PhDs and practice-based doctoral research. 

PhD cohorts commence each September. During the first year (or first two years for part time students), students undertake a structured programme of research training alongside regular supervision meetings. Training covers key aspects of doctoral study, including research methods, ethics, practice research, fieldwork, archival research and public engagement. 

Students are expected to engage fully with the training programme and make satisfactory progress in their research. Full-time students will typically complete their research design, methodology and any required ethics approval during their first year of study (or first two years for part time students). 

All doctoral researchers participate in an annual progress review, providing an opportunity to present their work, reflect on their development and receive constructive feedback from academic colleagues. 

The PhD finishes in the submission of an original thesis of up to 80,000 words, or an equivalent practice-based submission accompanied by a written component, followed by an oral examination (viva voce). 

Teacher Training Programme

PhD students interested in developing their teaching practice will have the opportunity to participate in an annual two-day teacher training programme. The training provides a strong foundation for those wishing to observe teaching or teach themselves at Rose Bruford College or pursue teaching opportunities elsewhere in the sector. 

PhD Award (University of Chichester) 

The University of Chichester is our validating partner for Research Degrees and validates our doctoral programme. Students are, thus awarded their final degree from the University of Chichester. The programme meets academic standards set by the University of Chichester but is designed, led and facilitated by Rose Bruford College, with students attending training, supervisions and examinations led by the College.  

Resources and Facilities 

Research students have access to a dedicated workspace on campus, alongside access to a range of specialist facilities, including performance studios and rehearsal spaces. Students also have opportunities to utilise performance venues to develop, test and showcase creative practice as part of, or alongside, their doctoral research. 

To support research development and dissemination, students may apply for small-scale research funding to contribute towards conference attendance, research-related travel, and the presentation and sharing of their work with academic, professional and public audiences throughout their studies. 

Research at Rose Bruford College  

At Rose Bruford College, there is a vibrant and developing research culture with specific expertise in performance, theatre and the arts. The College’s research is currently described across four research intensities:  

• Politics and Socially Engaged Practice 

• Queer Performance 

• Scenographies and Technologies 

• Acting and Performance.  

These intensities are not fixed centres but instead describe the broad and interconnected areas of enquiry around which our staff research coheres, where the word “intensities” recognises a critical mass of activity that may shift and evolve over time.  

We welcome applications for all related topics, but these are the areas in which we have the most expertise and faculty experience.  

View the Programme Specification here