Doctors of Philosophy in Creative Arts in England United Kingdom

This MPhil/PhD Creative Arts programme provides advanced training and research experience at a doctoral level in the Creative Arts, broadly understood to encompass a range of expressive and performing arts (including dance and theatre), embodied traditions of knowledge (including oratory and artisanal techniques), and aesthetics. The programme recognises that certain established cultural forms fall between the conventional disciplinary boundaries of the Western academy (including dance-dramas, puppetry, fashion, perfumery, and digital artworks) and draws upon the collective expertise of members of the School of Arts to create a platform for critical engagement with these forms. Members of the School of Arts cover a broad geographical area, across Asia and the Middle East, Africa, and diasporic cultures. We also have PhD students working on projects that fall outside of this geographical expanse, including research on Europe and the Americas. Staff often have research interests in issues that cross regional boundaries; our Department Staff page has a summary of their interests, research specialisms and activities. Students in the School of Arts use a variety of research methods, including fieldwork, interview, archival research, recording and filming, performance, transcription and analysis, composition, and curatorial projects. A key feature of the degree in Creatve Arts is the scope for Practice Research, where relevant. This may include design portfolios, installations, and performance. Most SOAS research students spend some time doing fieldwork in the regions of their research. Through SOAS’ various connections with individuals and institutions in the universities and governments of Asia and Africa, students may be able to benefit from personal contacts and introductions. -