Our PhD programmes offer an interdisciplinary approach to practice-based research, designed for artists and curators.
We make a distinctive contribution to creative knowledge through practice-led, theoretical, and art historical modes of enquiry.
Our doctoral community
Our international postgraduate community provides a supportive, stimulating and critical environment for the development of innovative doctoral research.
As a PhD student at Reading you will have access to the Doctoral and Researcher College. Located in the Old Whiteknights House, this facility provides space for doctoral researchers to work and network with others.
Our specialist staff
Our staff specialise in key areas of focus including exhibition and curatorial practice, publication projects and critical art writing.
Our academics also regularly exhibit work or curate exhibitions at prestigious international institutions.If you need support developing a PhD proposal, read more about our staff and their specialisms.
Our research
Our research aims to propose new modes of art practice and stimulate public discourse around art.
Learn more about how our research informs our teaching
Our research programmes allow artists and curators to contribute to the wider cultural context through original critical work, deepening their understanding of their practice.
We also work with international museums, galleries and collections in sharing our research to both specialist and non-academic audiences.Learn more about how our research informs our teaching
Presenting opportunities
You will also be involved in opportunities to communicate your work and network with other researchers. You could present a seminar, speak at conferences and workshops, and visit or host researchers from elsewhere.
Reading School of Art holds a regular PhD seminar series, which aims to give you the opportunity to practise speaking about your work at a friendly, supportive, critical and informal event. There are also opportunities to teach on undergraduate courses.
Reading School of Art holds a regular PhD seminar series, which aims to give you the opportunity to practise speaking about your work at a friendly, supportive, critical and informal event. There are also opportunities to teach on undergraduate courses.
Developing a PhD
Need help developing your PhD proposal? Learn more about our areas of specialism, types of degrees and what your study options are.
Support and supervision
Produce focused research in your own area of expertise with the help of supervisors suited to your needs.
You will receive regular support from two supervisors, and meet twice a semester for colloquia to discuss your research.
You will receive regular support from two supervisors, and meet twice a semester for colloquia to discuss your research.
Facilities
As a PhD student at Reading School of Art, you will have access to the fine art workshops and facilities, such as audio visual studio, editing suites and a sculpture workshop.