Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

A PhD in Art and Design at Nottingham Trent University is an independent, research‑led programme tailored around a candidate's project. Research can be practice‑based (where studio work, exhibitions, artefacts, prototypes or performances form a major component) or practice‑informed/theoretical (focusing on critical, historical or interdisciplinary study). Core elements include:

• Research project – an original, sustained inquiry defined and developed with supervisory guidance, culminating in a thesis and, for many candidates, a portfolio of creative work or public outcomes.
• Research training – structured support in research methods, ethics, documentation, and dissemination, delivered through workshops, seminars and doctoral training provision.
• Interdisciplinary engagement – opportunities to situate practice within broader debates in design research, material culture, visual studies, digital media, social design and applied arts.
• Professional development – training in publication, grant writing, curating, teaching and communicating research to non‑academic audiences.
• Progression and assessment – regular supervisory meetings, annual reviews, and a final examination that typically comprises a written thesis and viva voce; practice‑based submissions may include exhibitions, portfolios and supporting documentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant postgraduate qualification (such as an MA or MRes) or to demonstrate equivalent research experience and a strong track record of practice. Applications should include a clear research proposal, a portfolio or documentation of creative work where appropriate, academic references, and evidence of the ability to complete doctoral‑level study. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in academic English at a level appropriate for independent research and writing.

Career prospects

Graduates from a PhD in Art and Design pursue diverse careers across the creative and cultural sectors and in academia. Typical destinations include:

• Academic and research posts in universities and colleges (teaching, research fellowships and curriculum leadership).
• Professional artist or designer with a strengthened profile for commissions, residencies and exhibitions.
• Curatorial and gallery roles, museum research and collections management.
• Creative leadership in design studios, cultural organisations, public art and applied research within industry.
• Policy, consultancy and research roles where advanced critical and methodological skills are required.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers a supportive doctoral environment within an active School of Art & Design known for combining practical facilities with critical research culture. Candidates benefit from experienced supervisors across a range of disciplines, specialist workshops and studio facilities, and access to interdisciplinary research groups and public engagement platforms. The university also provides doctoral training, networking and employability support, plus links with regional galleries, cultural partners and industry, helping researchers to disseminate work and develop professional pathways beyond the degree.