PhD by Practice at Bath Spa University

Programme overview

The PhD by Practice involves producing a substantial body of new work, for example in art, creative writing, design or music, that makes an original contribution to knowledge. It is offered through a practice-based or a practice-led pathway.

Faculty: Graduate College (all Schools of Study) | Duration: Full-time: minimum 24 months, maximum 60 months; part-time: minimum 36 months, maximum 84 months | Study mode: full-time; part-time | Location: Bath, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Pathway 1 (practice-based) combines an exhibition, performance or other presentation with documentation and a written component of about 20,000-40,000 words; Pathway 2 (practice-led) combines a body of new work with a 60,000-80,000 word dissertation.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Student-led research degree: you develop a research proposal and secure a supervisor before applying through the Bath Spa admissions portal (contact the relevant School Higher Degrees Tutor or [email protected]).

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Research degrees standard band, UK full-time annual fee Source

International applicants: GBP 17,485 a year (2026/27). Research degrees standard band, international annual fee Source

Duration: Full-time: minimum 24 months, maximum 60 months; part-time: minimum 36 months, maximum 84 months

Apply through the official page: https://www.bathspa.ac.uk/how-to-apply/research-degrees/apply-now/

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