Theatre University of Surrey

Overview

The  University of Surrey  is 33rd in the UK rankings for overall research quality by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. The University is now also ranked in the top 20 in the UK for the overall quality of research outputs – research papers and other published works.

PhD researchers on all programmes at GSA can expect three levels of research training and support:

• University-level training provided by the Researcher Development Programme and the University Library, including a PhD induction, workshops on writing skills
• Preparation for your confirmation and viva. There is also an annual student-led University postgraduate conference
• School-level training is offered in the form of interdisciplinary seminars, visiting speaker events and conferences
• PhD researchers also receive subject-specific feedback at our biannual GSA postgraduate symposium that allows you to share and develop ideas in a supportive environment.

As a research conservatoire, we can offer dedicated time and support to practice-led research experiments and practical modes of knowledge enquiry. GSA’s research activity at Surrey includes access to the Surrey Shakespeare Centre which is hosted within the School.

We welcome proposals that will result in an 80,000-word thesis or a practice research-curated portfolio (c.40,000).

Assessment

Your final assessment in  Theatre will be based on the presentation of your research in a written thesis, which will be discussed in a viva examination with at least two examiners.

You have the option of preparing your thesis as a monograph (one large volume in chapter form) or in publication format (including chapters written for publication), subject to the approval of your supervisors.