Program Overview

PHD Fine Art and Design

Course summary

Investigate a research topic of your choice during a period of supervised study and make an original contribution to knowledge in Fine Art or Design.

How you learn

You learn through:

• independent study
• project supervision
• active research, making and exhibition (as appropriate)
• practice-led research workshops and live projects
• researcher development training events
• presenting your research at conferences and seminars
• participation in lively debate and discussion with your peers
• writing and defending a practice-led doctoral thesis

Future careers

A PhD in fine art and design prepares you for a career in:

• design
• fine art practice
• curation
• design management
• making or manufacturing
• company-employed design
• independent design practice
• education
• retail/marketing
• design research
• art research
• academia

Equipment and facilities

The university has exceptional fine art, design and media practice facilities, equipment and technical support, and screening facilities at 'The Void' film lecture theatre, which boasts cinema-standard 4K digital projection and two 40-year-old Westrex mm projectors. PhD students have access to studio and exhibition space at S1 Artspace.

Where will I study?

You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

Entry requirements

• A relevant undergraduate degree qualification (2.1 or above)
• A relevant masters level qualification (Merit or above)
• A 1,500-word research proposal
• Information about exhibitions/creative projects and concise creative practice documentation, portfolio or website link/s
• Degree certificates
• Module transcripts
• Details of two referees who can comment on your academic ability and readiness for PhD study
• Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

Fees and funding

• Home students: Our tuition fee for UK postgraduate research students will be aligned to the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) fees which have not yet been confirmed for 2026/27
• International students: Our tuition fee for International/EU postgraduate research students starting part-time study in 2026/27 is £9,300 per year
• Doctoral student loans: Up to £25,700 available to help you while you study a postgraduate doctoral course

Additional course costs

• The links below allow you to view estimated general course additional costs, as well as costs associated with key activities on specific courses
• General course additional costs
• Additional costs for Sheffield Creative Industries Institute (PDF, 745.6KB)