English PhD

This full time or part time doctoral programme is suitable for people who have a particular research question or topic in mind, and wish to explore this through independent study in order to produce an original contribution to the subject. If you aspire to a research career this is the most appropriate research degree to undertake. We offer a rich and warm postgraduate culture in English and creative writing at the University of Plymouth, based in fellowship and scholarly interaction with the other departments in the Faculty, especially history and the history of art. English and creative writing staff have published widely, and the subject had outstanding results in the last Research Assessment Exercise (over 70% was ranked at 3 or 4, internationally excellent and/or world leading, making our outputs per staff amongst the best in the UK). You will be expected to fully engage with skills development and training and to present your research in a range of scholarly contexts. Your PhD will be assessed via submission of either a written thesis (approximately 80,000 words), or one that combines critical writing with artistic, creative and/or professional practice, and a viva voce (an oral examination).

Students need to have a masters degree or equivalent from a UK higher education institution in a relevant subject; Students normally have to supply a research proposal, personal statement, and occasionally evidence that they are prepared to undertake the proposed project. This may include a portfolio, or a sample of critical writing, depending on their area of study. Other UK or overseas qualifications may also be accepted – with academic reference.