The multifaceted world of theatrical performance and expression offers many opportunities for study and advanced research. Undertaking a distance learning PhD in theatre and dramatic arts is an opportunity to fully immerse into acting techniques, directing principles, and the broader landscape of stagecraft. Typical UK entry requirements include a relevant undergraduate degree in theatre or a related field and typically, applicants have spent several years working in the profession.
A PhD is a research-based degree; therefore, you’ll also need to submit a proposal for the theme of your work and exploration, and this will form the basis of your course content. Additionally, since the degree is studying remotely, you’ll need to ensure that you have access to the resources needed to contact your academic supervisor and conduct your research.
Full-time courses are usually three years in duration, and there are five such programmes in the UK, delivered by three different universities.
What to Expect
You will perform your research under the guidance of an academic supervisor, who will encourage you to explore advanced themes and ideas. You might investigate the role of theatre in education, or perhaps a historical analysis of the dramatics arts, or even the cultural context of existing theatrical work.
You can expect a lot of self-guided study, and since the course is studied via distance learning, your tutorials, assignments and assessments, will all be conducted digitally. You’ll learn to represent your research in a number of different ways, from long-form writing, to discussions and presentations.
Once graduated, you’ll be qualified as a highly skilled researcher with the knowledge and skills to make an impact in many different creative industries.