MPhil/PhD Theatre, Drama and Performance at Anglia Ruskin University

Programme overview

Our PhD research programmes will allow you to join one of our research projects or explore your own interests in Theatre, Drama and Performance, supported by the expertise of our staff. At Anglia Ruskin, our theatre, drama and performance research focuses on twentieth-century, contemporary and experimental performance, interrogating both theatre-making processes and performance outcomes. It covers a broad spectrum of performance forms, including text-based theatre work; interdisciplinary and collaborative performance, involving such aspects as digital media, interculturalism, medicine, dance, physicality and music; devising and directing strategies; critical theory; and live art practice.

Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Humanities, Education and Social Sciences | Duration: MPhil: full-time 1-3 years, part-time 2-4 years.; PhD via progression from MPhil, including that period: full-time 2.5-5 years, part-time 3.5-6 years.; PhD: full-time 2-4 years, part-time 3-6 years. | Study mode: full-time, part-time | Intake: January 2027, April, September 2027 | Location: Chelmsford, England, United Kingdom

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

MPhil or PhD with progression from MPhil: You’ll need a Bachelor degree or equivalent with first or upper second class honours, in a related subject area. PhD: You’ll need a Master degree or equivalent in a related subject area. Please note we consider candidates for PhD with progression from MPhil in the first instance. If you want to be considered for direct entry to the PhD route then this can be discussed at interview if you are shortlisted. Please note you’ll also need to provide academic justification for this request. If English is not your first language, you'll require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component (or equivalent test). If you don't meet our English language requirements, we offer a range of courses which could help you achieve the level required for entry.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Tuition fee: UK students, 2026/27 (per year) Source

International applicants: GBP 17,500 a year (2026/27). Tuition fee: International students, 2026/27 (per year) Source

Intake: January 2027, April, September 2027

Duration: MPhil: full-time 1-3 years, part-time 2-4 years.; PhD via progression from MPhil, including that per

Apply through the official page: https://www.aru.ac.uk/study/apply-online?course=&route=r0176

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