Art and Design - MPhil

The Master of Philosophy degree is an internationally-recognised qualification which affords students the opportunity to investigate a topic relevant to the Faculty’s areas of expertise under the supervision of a team of qualified academic staff.

Course Overview

Prospective candidates submit a proposal for a research project. Following approval, you are allocated a supervision team of two or three appropriate members of staff led by a Director of Studies. With this team you embark on an extended investigation into your topic, producing a written thesis. There is also an option of practice-based research, which results in a shorter written thesis together with a substantial body of practical work. All research students have the opportunity to take part in research training events, and the University’s Summer School.

The Faculty’s areas of expertise include all aspects of the visual arts, design, photography, film and media. MPhil work will often lead to publication and may lead to a career in academia.

Assessment

The MPhil is assessed by the submission of a written thesis together with a body of practical work where appropriate, which is scrutinised through an oral examination, or viva, by two examiners, one external to the University.

Career Opportunities

A research degree such as the MPhil is recognised internationally as a qualification for a range of academic posts in the Higher Education sector. Many research students pursue their studies for the pleasure of investigating a subject at this level but research degrees also provide opportunities for career development within many professions such as education, media and the arts.