Postgraduate research in Culture, Heritage and Society

Help to enrich local, national and international communities through research by joining a team of expert researchers in the field of Culture, Heritage and Society. Using creative practices and top-flight facilities, you can help to lead research in the arenas of regeneration of cities, social justice, philosophy, tourism, film and media production, augmented and virtual realities, theatre and drama, music, history and archaeology.

Table showing MPhil/PhD subjects in Culture, Heritage and Society, with locations and modes of study
SubjectLocationMode of Study
Art and Design On campus Full time, part time
Film, Media and Music On campus Full time, part time
Film, Theatre and Music On campus Full time, part time
Film, Theatre and Music Distance learning Part time
History and Archaeology On campus, distance learning Full time, part time
Humanities On campus, distance learning Full time, part time
Humanities by Published Work Distance learning Full time
Sociology and International Relations On campus, distance learning Full time, part time
Social Sciences On campus Full time, part time

Ready-to-go research projects

In addition to offering supervision for a project that you propose, we also have a list of ready to go PhD projects designed by our experts, which means that the research proposal is already written.

View all projects

Speak to the Graduate School about postgraduate research.

Our researchers

World renowned in their fields, our researchers are here to support you through every step of your research career.

Professor Carola Boehm

Professor

Having degrees both from the arts (music) as well as the sciences (electrical engineering, computer science) I am a genuine interdisciplinarian.

Carola's profile

Professor Neil Brownsword

Professor

Prof. Brownsword is an artist, researcher and educator. His research into the legacy of deindustrialisation in relation to North Staffordshire's ceramic industry, has had national and international cultural impact.

Neil's profile

Dr Sharon Coleclough

Senior Lecturer

Sharon works across all areas of film and media production, focusing upon specialisms in sound design, editing, acting and performance in film. She is an active researcher with international publications on lighting, sound and representation in film.

Sharon's profile

Facilities

As a postgraduate research student, you'll have access to all of our specialist facilities, and the expertise of our technicians, to help your research succeed.

Visualisation and Simulation Studio

This multi-purpose space facilitates training, research and academic practice related to object digitisation, through the use of laser scanners and close range photogrammetry.

Composite Materials Workshop

A workspace with the equipment necessary to shape, mould and form with a wide range of materials including plastics, fibre glass, carbon fibre and resins.

Motion Capture Stage

The Motion Capture Stage is an industry standard facility that provides training and sessions within Motion Capture, promoting innovation and realism within Animation practices.

Support and funding

Study options

Our postgraduate research students work on their research in a range of different modes to fit around their work and life commitments – you might be on campus as a full-time or part-time researcher, or you may be studying as a Distance Learner. Your preferred option will be discussed as you go through your research proposal with your potential supervisory team.

Browse study options

Fees and funding

Before you start your application, it's important to consider how you will fund your studies and cover living costs. There are lots of options available to postgraduate students to help support your work, which is why we have put together a detailed guide explaining the costs involved in postgraduate study, and the help that's available to pay for it.

Explore the funding options

How you will be supported

The Graduate School works centrally to support you as a postgraduate researcher by listening, providing development opportunities, managing your journey, and acting as a gateway to pastoral support as you require. 

Visit the Graduate School


How to apply

Interested in researching in the field of Culture, Heritage and Society? You will need to go through our application process. This is to ensure we can meet your specific needs and support your research topic.

Start your postgraduate career by completing our MPhil/PhD enquiry form. We’ll put you in touch with a member of staff to have an informal conversation about your proposed research and qualifications.

 

 

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

Top 5 for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2025

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023