At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€21k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- MPhil, PhD, PhD by Published Work, MA by ResearchDegree Options
- 1-3 years full-time, 2-6 years part-timeStudy Duration
- June, September, JanuaryStart Dates
- Headington CampusLocation
- Self-fundedFunding Status
- Text and practice-based researchResearch Approach
The School of Arts at Oxford Brookes University offers a dynamic and thriving research environment for MPhil, PhD, PhD by Published Work, and MA by Research students. We integrate both text-based and practice-based approaches, supported by world-leading academics across various subject areas. We encourage research proposals that align with our diverse research groups and staff interests, spanning Fine Art, Film Studies, Musicology, Publishing, Media, and Digital Arts, among others. The program benefits from extensive global university links and strong industry collaborations, providing opportunities for collaborative research, exchanges, and overseas study. The MA by Research also offers unique opportunities with external partners and university research projects.
Careers
A research degree from the School of Arts at Oxford Brookes University equips students with advanced research skills, critical thinking, and specialist knowledge, preparing them for diverse career paths in academia, creative industries, and other professional sectors. The program's emphasis on both textual and practice-based research, coupled with strong links to industry and other universities, broadens opportunities for graduates.
- Academic Researcher
- University Lecturer
- Curator
- Archivist
- Film Producer/Director
- Journalist
- Editor
- Publisher
- Sound Artist
- Composer
- Digital Media Specialist
- Graphic Designer
- Photographer
- Arts Administrator
- Cultural Policy Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Arts PhD programme?
- For PhD/MPhil/MA by Research programmes, the tuition fee for international students is £18,200 per year for full-time study.
- What are the estimated living costs for a postgraduate student at Oxford Brookes?
- Estimated annual living costs range from £16,796 to £22,256, covering accommodation, food, and other personal expenses.
- How long does the PhD programme in Arts typically take?
- The full-time study duration for the programme is 1-3 years, with part-time study options available from 2-6 years.
- What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
- For MPhil/PhD, an IELTS Academic score of overall 6.5 with no component below 6.0 is required. For MA by Research, an overall 6.5 is typically needed with a 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in other components.
- When is the recommended application deadline for international students?
- International applicants are recommended to submit their application at least 6 months before their desired start date, to allow ample time for processing and visa applications.
- What academic qualifications are needed to apply for the PhD programme?
- For direct PhD entry, a recent master’s degree in a relevant discipline is usually required, though exceptional candidates with a strong honours degree and relevant experience may be considered.
Entry requirements
MPhil (with possibility of transfer to PhD)A first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree, a relevant master’s qualification, or an equivalent qualification.
PhD directA recent master’s degree in a discipline appropriate to the proposed research (including research training and project). Exceptional cases with a good honours degree and significant research/professional experience resulting in published work will also be considered.
PhD by Published WorkA first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree, a relevant master’s qualification, or an equivalent qualification. Prior association with Oxford Brookes University is normally expected.
Masters by ResearchAt least a lower second-class honours degree in a relevant subject area. Professional experience, publications, or written reports may also be considered.
IELTS AcademicOverall 6.5 with 6.0 in all components (for MPhil/PhD). For MA by Research, typically an overall 6.5 with 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in other components.
Applicants are encouraged to submit a research proposal outlining their intended project. For specific guidance, refer to the Research Proposal Guidelines available on the university website. It is recommended to contact the relevant program lead or research centre for discussions regarding research project ideas, especially for the MA by Research.
Fees
Tuition (international)For PhD/MPhil/MA by Research: £18,200 per year (full-time).
Tuition (home)For PhD/MPhil/MA by Research: £5,400 per year (full-time).
LivingEstimated annual living costs (for a 52-week course, e.g., postgraduate study) range from £16,796 to £22,256. This includes accommodation (£135-£240/week), telephone (£11/week), food (£50/week), household goods/laundry (£22/week), course essentials (£5/week), and other leisure/socialising costs (£100/week).
Tuition fees are subject to change. Living costs are estimates and can vary based on individual lifestyle and accommodation choices. Accommodation in university halls or shared private housing is available, with hall fees payable in instalments. Students are advised to budget carefully and utilize available discounts.
How to apply
1. Develop a Research ProposalPrepare a detailed research proposal that aligns with the research interests of the School of Arts and its staff. Guidelines for research proposals are available on the university website. For MA by Research, you may apply with your own topic or for an advertised project.
2. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic entry requirements for your chosen degree route (MPhil, PhD, PhD by Published Work, or MA by Research), including English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS). For PhD by Published Work, prior association with Oxford Brookes is usually required.
3. Gather Supporting DocumentsCollect all required application documents, which typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, English language test scores, references, and your research proposal.
4. Submit Your ApplicationComplete and submit your online application form. It is recommended that international applicants apply at least 6 months in advance to allow sufficient time for processing and visa applications.
5. Interview (if required)You may be invited for an interview as part of the assessment process for your application.
6. Receive an OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer of admission. Review the offer details carefully.
7. Apply for Visa (International Students)Once you have an unconditional offer, international students will need to apply for a UK student visa. This process requires a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from the university.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Arts PhD programme?
+
For PhD/MPhil/MA by Research programmes, the tuition fee for international students is £18,200 per year for full-time study.
What are the estimated living costs for a postgraduate student at Oxford Brookes?
+
Estimated annual living costs range from £16,796 to £22,256, covering accommodation, food, and other personal expenses.
How long does the PhD programme in Arts typically take?
+
The full-time study duration for the programme is 1-3 years, with part-time study options available from 2-6 years.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
For MPhil/PhD, an IELTS Academic score of overall 6.5 with no component below 6.0 is required. For MA by Research, an overall 6.5 is typically needed with a 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in other components.
When is the recommended application deadline for international students?
+
International applicants are recommended to submit their application at least 6 months before their desired start date, to allow ample time for processing and visa applications.
What academic qualifications are needed to apply for the PhD programme?
+
For direct PhD entry, a recent master’s degree in a relevant discipline is usually required, though exceptional candidates with a strong honours degree and relevant experience may be considered.