Key Information


Full-time

MPhil: 1.5-3 years. PhD: 2-4 years

Part-time

MPhil: 2-4 years. PhD: 3-8 years

Entry Requirements

See More

Campus

Brayford Pool

Start Dates in October and January

Programme Overview

The University of Lincoln offers research programmes at MPhil and PhD level in a range of fine and contemporary art specialisms in a vibrant artistic community. Research students can benefit from a variety of training opportunities to develop their research skills.

Research proposals are welcomed in contemporary fine art practice, current theoretical issues in art, as well as its histories, live art, and socially engaged practice.

While studying for an MPhil or PhD, students are expected to undertake independent research in an area of their choice, supervised and supported by a team of academics. Students have the opportunity to present their work in exhibitions and postgraduate seminars, attend conferences, and submit work for publication in refereed journals.

Research students are invited to join one of the School's thriving research groups and participate in its Critical Encounters Research Series alongside academic staff and other postgraduate students.

Key Features

Conduct independent, original, and academically significant research

Benefit from training courses to develop key research skills

Supervision and support from an advisory panel of academic staff

Present at talks and seminars to showcase your work

Enrol in January or October each year

A woman stood in a workshop with a paintbrush

How You Study

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the majority of time is spent in independent study and research. Students will have meetings with their academic supervisors, but the frequency of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and stage of programme.

Research Areas

The key to success on a postgraduate research programme is to find a research topic that you are passionate about and identify a supervisory team that has expertise in this area. The first thing that all prospective students should do is directly contact a member of staff from one of these areas that you feel is best aligned with your chosen research area to discuss the application process further. The School’s research areas include:

  • Posthumanism
  • Aesthetics
  • Cognitive Science
  • Art-science methodologies

How you are assessed

Students are expected to write an 80,000 word thesis on a subject previously agreed prior to admission to the College.

Students completing a practice-based PhD will be required to produce a substantial body of art and a thesis of between 25,000 - 40,000 words.

The thesis is examined by two examiners and includes a Viva Voce (oral) examination.

How to Apply

Postgraduate Research Application Support

Find out more about the application process for research degrees and what you'll need to complete on our How to Apply page, which also features contact details for dedicated support with your application.

How to Apply
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Research Proposal Guidance

As part of the application process for this programme, applicants will need to submit a research proposal of 1,000-2,000 words. This proposal should:

  • Clearly define the topic you are interested in and demonstrate understanding of your research area.
  • Include two or three research questions that you will explore in your research.
  • Outline the range of research methodologies you will use to undertake the research.
  • Include a provisional bibliography of primary and secondary sources.

In addition, you may wish to:

  • Include a brief literature review of the key works that relate to your topic, particularly if this helps to exemplify the point below.
  • Explain clearly how your research contributes to existing scholarship in the area; what gaps will it fill? how will it further knowledge of the area?
  • Sketch out a provisional plan of work that includes research/archival visits and a timetable for the writing of chapters. If your proposal is for a practice research project, then you should supply links to relevant artwork.

Entry Requirements 2024-25

Entry Requirements

First or upper second class honours degree and a Master's degree. International students will also require English Language at IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each part.

Programme Fees

You will need to have funding in place for your studies before you arrive at the University. Our fees vary depending on the course, mode of study, and whether you are a UK or international student. You can view the breakdown of fees for this programme below. Research students may be required to pay additional fees in addition to cover the cost of specialist resources, equipment and access to any specialist collections that may be required to support their research project. These will be informed by your research proposal and will be calculated on an individual basis.

Programme Fees

Funding Your Research

Loans and Studentships

Find out more about the optional available to support your postgraduate research, from Master's and Doctoral Loans, to research studentship opportunities. You can also find out more about how to pay your fees and access support from our helpful advisors.

Explore Funding Options
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Career Development

A doctoral qualification can be the capstone of academic achievement and often marks the beginning of a career in academia or research. A research programme provides the opportunity to become a true expert in your chosen field, while developing a range of valuable transferable skills that can support your career progression. A research-based degree is also the most direct pathway to an academic career. PhDs and research degrees are a great chance to expand your network and meet diverse people with similar interests, knowledge, and passion.

The University’s Doctoral School provides a focal point for Lincoln’s community of researchers, where ideas and experiences can be developed and shared across disciplines. It also offers support and training to help equip you for both academic and non-academic careers.

Doctoral School

Academic Contact

For more information about this course, please contact:

Dr Jackie Bolton
JBolton@lincoln.ac.uk

Research at Lincoln

Through our research, we are striving to change society for the better. Working with regional, national, and international partners, our academics are engaged in groundbreaking studies that are challenging the status quo. We also understand the importance of providing the best possible environment for pursuing research that can support our communities, improve lives, and make a tangible difference to the world around us.

Explore Our Research
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The University intends to provide its courses as outlined in these pages, although the University may make changes in accordance with the Student Admissions Terms and Conditions.