| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Overview
The Department of Theatre offers supervisory expertise in a wide range of subject areas, including early modern theatre and performance practices; 19th- and 20th-century theatre and performance histories and practices; contemporary British theatre; adaptation and translation of theatre and performance; contemporary performance practices; performance archives; dance histories and practices; the role of the body in performance; philosophy and performance; virtual and augmented reality; immersive theatre and audience studies.
The department has particular strengths in historical research, digital and immersive theatre, and practice-as-research. We offer the opportunity for practice-based projects as well as projects based in the archives of the Theatre Collection, an accredited museum and archive service housed in the department. The Theatre Collection is the second-largest theatre archive collection in the UK with particular strengths in theatre in the South West, 19th-century theatre, post-Second World War theatre, live and performance art, scenery and costume design, and theatrical or related artwork.
Should research proposals span various disciplines, a supervisory team will be assembled across departments and faculties to meet the needs of the project.
Key Information
Programme Duration
- MPhil: one year full-time; two years part-time
- PhD: up to four years full-time; up to eight years part-time
Start Date
- January 2025, September 2025, January 2026
Application Deadline
- January 2025 start: 1 December 2024
- September 2025 start:
- Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025
- Home applicants: 1 August 2025
- January 2026 start: 1 December 2025
Delivery Method
- Distance Learning, On-Campus
Location
- Clifton
Awards Available
- PhD, MPhil
Programme Structure
MPhil
- A standalone, one-year (full-time) research degree
- Students will undertake their own research project, concluding in the submission of a 25,000-word dissertation
- Students may have the option to audit units from our taught master's programmes if they are relevant to their research
PhD
- A research project undertaken across four years (full-time, minimum period of study three years), culminating in an 80,000-word thesis
- As well as having the option to audit taught units, there may be the potential for PhD students to teach units themselves from their second year of study onwards
World-Leading Research
- 5th: The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education)
- 94%: 94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent
Entry Requirements
MPhil
- An upper second-class degree or international equivalent
- Acceptance will also depend on evidence of your readiness to pursue a research degree
PhD
- A master's qualification, or be working towards a master's qualification, or international equivalent
- Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree (or international equivalent)
- Applicants with a non-traditional background may be considered provided they can demonstrate substantial equivalent and relevant experience that has prepared them to undertake their proposed course of study
Fees and Funding
Home
- Full-time: £4,850 per year
- Part-time: £2,425 per year
Overseas
- Full-time: £21,300 per year
Alumni Discount
- University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study
Funding and Scholarships
- The University of Bristol is part of the South, West and Wales Doctoral Training Partnership (SWW DTP), which will be offering studentships for September 2025
- For information on other funding opportunities, including University-funded studentships, please see the Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences funding pages
Career Prospects
- A large number of graduates from this programme develop careers in higher education or work on high-level research projects in the field of theatre and performance
- Some graduates take up careers in directing and producing
Meet Our Supervisors
- Dr Francesco Bentivegna
- Dr Paul Clarke
- Dr Mark France
- Professor Catherine Hindson
- Dr Katja Krebs
- Dr Jess McCormack
- Professor Elaine McGirr
- Dr Eleanor Rycroft
- Dr Kirsty Sedgman
- Dr Harry Wilson
- Dr Jan Wozniak
Research Groups
- There is a lively postgraduate community in the department which shares research through regular reading groups, symposia of current postgraduate research, and sharing performance and research work in progress
- The department has a programme of research seminars and public talks, and strong partnerships with regional theatre and performance companies and arts organisations
- Beyond the department, students participate in interdisciplinary research clusters, centres and institutes, working with colleagues across the University and the South West
University of Bristol Summary
Overview:
The University of Bristol is a renowned public research university located in Bristol, England. It is known for its high academic standards, strong research output, and vibrant campus life. The university is ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, consistently attracting top students and researchers.
Services Offered:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs:
A diverse selection of academic programs across various disciplines.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Students' Union:
A dedicated student organization providing support, activities, and representation.Library:
Extensive library resources and facilities for research and study.Sport, Exercise, and Health:
Opportunities for participation in sports and fitness activities.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Bristol enjoy a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university is located in a dynamic city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture. Students have access to a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, fostering a strong sense of community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Academic Standards:
The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world and the UK, offering high-quality education.Strong Research Output:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community.Location in a Dynamic City:
Bristol is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, independent spirit, and alternative culture.Excellent Career Prospects:
Graduates from the University of Bristol are highly sought after by employers.Academic Programs:
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
