PhD Theatre Studies - Theatre Studies Degree

Program Overview

The University of Essex PhD in Theatre Studies is a research-focused degree allowing students to investigate their chosen topic thoroughly. Through independent study guided by an academic supervisor and access to the Lakeside Theatre, students will develop high-level skills, professional development, and networks while creating an original play or short plays with a critical commentary. Graduates pursue careers in writing, academia, theatre arts administration, and related fields.

Program Outline

Outline:

• The PhD Theatre Studies program at the University of Essex is a research-based degree that allows students to investigate their chosen topic in real depth and reach a profound understanding.
• Students will develop new high-level skills, enhance their professional development, and build new networks.
• The program does not have a taught structure, giving students the chance to investigate their chosen topic in real depth and reach a profound understanding.
• Students will work on an original full-length play or equivalent short plays (70-100 pages or 70-150 minutes playing time, 20,000-30,000 words) plus a critical commentary (40,000 words).

Assessment:

• Students will be assessed on their research proposal, thesis, and oral examination.
• The thesis is generally completed within three to four years and has a length of around 80,000 words.
• The oral examination is conducted by two examiners, at least one of whom is from outside Essex.

Teaching:

• Students will be supervised by a member of the academic staff who will provide guidance and support throughout the research process.
• Students will also have access to a range of resources, including the Lakeside Theatre, which has been established for many years as a major venue for good drama and is known for its commitment to new writing for the stage.

Careers:

• Graduates of the PhD Theatre Studies program have gone on to successful careers as writers, scholars, university lecturers, teachers, publishers, publishers' editors, journalists, arts administrators, theatre artistic directors, drama advisers, and translators.

Other:

• The University of Essex is a community of award-winning writers, film-makers and theatre-makers, as well as leading academic specialists.
• The Department of Literature, Film, and Theatre Studies offers a range of courses that span the globe, with expertise in geographical as well as chronological, practical as well as theoretical areas.
• The University offers talented students the support and confidence to respond both critically and artistically to their academic study.

Home/UK fee £4,786 per year
International fee £18,750 per year
Fees will increase for each academic year of study.