PhD in Art, Design and Media

The School of Art and Media at the University of Brighton welcomes students for PhD research study in multiple areas across contemporary fine art, visual communication, screen and media studies, digital media arts and sound, photography, fashion, textiles, design and craft.

We are a pioneering institution with a long history in the provision and development of research by art and design practice. Recent postgraduate research student successes include prize-winning projects at the 2023 Ivor Novello Awards for Best Sound Art, artist commissions, participation in international festivals, and gallery exhibitions, and contributions to academic conferences and journals, as well as a significant uptake in future academic employment.

We look forward to applications for research degrees from all suitably qualified home, EU and international students, for externally- funded and self-funded PhD students.

Find the support you need at the university of Brighton.

The University of Brighton’s research develops and expands through internationally active research centres and research groups and PhD students in art, design and media are likely to be aligned with one or more of these. Research with real-world impact is at the heart of our ambitions and success, and we respond directly to the most pressing global challenges through themes of Equality and Inclusivity, Wellbeing, Climate Change, and Creative Sustainable Economies.

The professional development and progression of our doctoral students is our priority. Our doctoral training programme and vibrant research environment will help you develop your knowledge and skills to become a competent and confident early career researcher. From research plan to viva, our workshops and specialist staff guide doctoral students through the major milestones of their PhD. You will be welcomed into a community of around 500 doctoral students of diverse ages, experiences and backgrounds. Full-time and part-time options for home-based students will help balance work and life commitments.

The School of Art and Media provides a unique annual programme of Research Methods talks by current supervisors, equipping students with a wide range of practical and theoretical knowledge and skills. Resources in the School of Art and Media include professional and industry-standard facilities and workshops for craft, printmaking, book arts, photography, fashion and textiles, digital media and XR labs, design archives, and practice-based studio space. PhD students in art design and media at the University of Brighton can choose to submit a practice-led PhD project (with an examination of practice outputs and a shorter written thesis) or a standard-length written thesis analysing and reflecting on your own practice and/or that of others.

The city of Brighton

Brighton is a vibrant and creative seaside city on the South-East coast of the United Kingdom. By train, it is only one hour away from London, 30 minutes away from London's Gatwick Airport and 90 minutes away from London's Heathrow Airport, attracting visitors and students to a growing international population. The city's progressive attitudes mean it leads the way in arts, creative technology, sexuality and gender studies and issues, as well as environmental and sustainable education and policy.

How to Apply

You will need to submit a detailed research proposal to your application for a self-funded position. This proposal will need to be appropriate to the level of study (PhD) and suitable for the University of Brighton – Most importantly, we must ensure we have the right supervisors/experts for your project and we have all the resources in place so you receive the support you need.

To develop your research idea, we therefore recommend you approach one of our researchers who may become your lead supervisor. For the five steps leading to a PhD application at the University of Brighton, information on tuition fees and funding, entry requirements and deadlines, visit our PhD application website.

Alternatively, your application may outline your suitability for an advertised funded research project as detailed on our PhD funding and opportunities page.

For more information

FAQ: Brighton as a city and the University of Brighton as a place to study

FAQ: PhD funding UK for overseas students, visas and language requirements

FAQ: Support and facilities during your PhD studies