Key Information
- Duration: Full-time: 48 months; Part-time: 72 months
- Start dates & application deadlines: September 2026 and February 2027; apply anytime
Overview
Throughout the Theatre course from the University of West London is available for you to study either on a full-time or part-time basis and you have the flexibility to switch should you need to.
A PhD is founded on independent research. You will undertake a systematic and in-depth exploration of your chosen topic to produce a substantial body of knowledge and make an original and important contribution to the subject area.
A PhD degree in Theatre - the highest academic qualification, based on the advanced study and independent research - opens up an array of career opportunities both in academia and within the performing arts industries.
Many students go on to pursue an academic career, following the PhD with postdoctoral study, then a fellowship or lectureship.
During your PhD, you will also be learning transferable core skills that apply to jobs both in and out of academia, including:
- written and oral communication
- research and information management
- public speaking
- project management
- leadership
- critical thinking
- collaboration
- analysis and problem-solving
- conflict resolution
- negotiation.
By the end of your Theatre research degree you will be able to articulately apply these skills to enhance your career path.
Job roles
- university lecturer
- postdoctoral researcher
- other higher and further education lecturer
- freelance soloist
- session performer
- touring theatre artist.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Theatre and Performance History, Theory and Analysis
- Theatre and Performance Practice
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
GPA: Upper Second Class
English Requirements
Duolingo English Test: 120
TOEFL iBT: 86
PTE Academic: 58
IELTS: 6.5
Other Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for a research degree are:
- a good first degree (First Class or Upper Second Class), or equivalent qualification in a relevant field;
- a Masters degree (MA, MSc, MBA or MRes) with Merit, or equivalent postgraduate or research experience.
Fees and Funding
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality. International: 30,005 AUD/year (approx. 16,000 GBP/year). Domestic: 9,189 AUD/year (approx. 4,900 GBP/year).
Part-time: National - £2,450; International - £8,000.
Living costs in London: 2,132-4,045 AUD/month.
Scholarships
- The Townshend Studio and VC PhD Scholarship - 22,000 GBP, Deadline not specified
- PhD Bursary - 2,000 GBP, Deadline anytime
- Kitsune Scholarship - 5,000 GBP, Deadline not specified
- The AMO Scholarship - 5,000 GBP, Deadline not specified