PhD Codex

Academic Requirements:

Applicants are expected to have completed a masters level qualification to a high standard (e.g. at 'merit' or 'distinction' level) as well as either a good 2:1 or first-class honors undergraduate degree in an area of study appropriate to your project proposal (e.g. theatre and performance, drama, dance, live or fine art, performance writing, etc.). We are happy to consider equivalent qualifications (for instance, you may have studied different subjects at undergraduate and master's level but have established an artistic practice since then).

If you do not have a master's level qualification, we recommend you consider applying for our ResM Art, Design and Architecture programme. Students who are making exceptional progress in a ResM programme, may progress directly into our PhD programme without having to complete the masters.

You will also need to provide evidence that you are ready to pursue the project you propose in your application. This will take the form of a sample of critical writing, and if relevant, documentation of relevant creative or professional practice.

If English is not your first language, you must have proficiency in written and spoken English (normally a minimum test score of 6.5 for IELTS, or equivalent). Given the nature of the programme, you’ll be expected to read and engage with complex theoretical texts and debates for which fluency in English is essential.

English Language Requirements:

The following Secure English Language tests (SELTs) are Home Office (UKVI) approved and accepted by the University of Plymouth and the University of Plymouth International College (UPIC). The scores required have been increased from the UKVI minimum specified scores to meet University requirements.

• IELTS (Academic)
• Trinity College London ISE (only a SELT if taken in the UK)
• LanguageCert International ESOL 
• Pearson PTE Academic

A SELT must be taken at an approved UKVI center.

The other tests and qualifications listed here have been deemed acceptable by the University of Plymouth and UPIC to meet our entry requirements and UKVI requirements for study at RQF 6 and above. 

Please note that these tests and qualifications are not SELTs.

When studying on a pre-sessional course or course below RQF 6, a SELT is a mandatory requirement set by UKVI. 

If studying at RQF 6 level and above, the University is permitted to accept other qualifications that we deem meet UKVI and our requirements.