Arts by Research

The Arts by Research programme at the University of Bedfordshire offers an innovative and dynamic opportunity for postgraduate students to engage in advanced artistic investigation and practice. Designed for individuals seeking to develop their scholarly and creative capabilities, this programme emphasizes the integration of research methodologies with practical arts-based projects across a wide range of disciplines, including fine arts, visual arts, media, performance, and cultural studies. Students are encouraged to pursue original and independent research that contributes to contemporary arts discourse, pushing boundaries and exploring new aesthetic and conceptual territories. The programme provides a vibrant, supportive environment where emerging artists and researchers can collaborate, critically reflect, and produce innovative works that reflect contemporary societal issues, personal narratives, and experimental ideas. Through a combination of supervised research, studio practice, seminars, workshops, and presentations, students refine their theoretical understanding and practical skills, culminating in a substantial body of creative work and a comprehensive thesis or exegesis. The University of Bedfordshire’s Arts by Research programme also offers opportunities for exhibition, publication, and dissemination of student work, fostering engagement with wider audiences and the professional arts sector. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced supervisors, and an active arts community, students are well-supported in achieving their academic and artistic ambitions. Graduates of this programme are equipped to pursue careers in academia, creative industries, curatorial practice, and independent artistic practice, making significant contributions to the arts and cultural sector both nationally and internationally. Whether you are an emerging artist or a seasoned practitioner looking to deepen your research and practice, the Arts by Research programme provides an inspiring platform for artistic growth, intellectual development, and creative exploration.

The Arts By Research program at the University of Bedfordshire offers a distinctive opportunity for postgraduate students to engage in independently driven artistic inquiry across a wide range of disciplines within the arts. Designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and scholarly excellence, this program enables students to develop their own research project under expert guidance, culminating in a substantial body of original work that contributes to contemporary arts practice and theory. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to explore innovative approaches and interdisciplinary methodologies, pushing the boundaries of traditional artistic practices. The curriculum provides a supportive environment where students can refine their ideas, experiment with different mediums and techniques, and critically reflect on their work in relation to current debates in the arts sector. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including dedicated studios, workshops, and digital labs, which facilitate the development of their creative practice. Throughout the course, students participate in seminars, workshops, and peer critique sessions, fostering a collaborative learning community that enhances their professional development. The Arts By Research program aims to prepare graduates for diverse careers in the arts, whether as practicing artists, curators, researchers, or educators. Upon successful completion, students produce a major portfolio or thesis that demonstrates advanced artistic practice and research skills, which can be showcased in exhibitions, performances, or published work. The program emphasizes the importance of originality, professional practice, and academic rigor, providing students with the tools necessary to contribute meaningfully to the cultural and creative sectors. Overall, this program offers an enriching environment for artists seeking to deepen their understanding of artistic processes, develop innovative work, and engage with contemporary issues through art.

Applicants are required to hold a relevant undergraduate degree, typically a Bachelor's degree with a minimum classification of 2:2 or equivalent in an arts-related discipline. Prior research experience, whether through academic projects, professional practice, or personal creative pursuits, is highly desirable. A well-written research proposal outlining the intended area of investigation, research questions, methodology, and potential contribution to the field is essential for application. The selection process also considers the applicant's portfolio, which should demonstrate relevant artistic or academic work that aligns with the proposed research interests. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English; a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no sub-test below 5.5 is generally required unless they have completed previous studies in English-medium institutions. Applicants are advised to include references from academic or professional sources who can attest to their research capability and readiness for postgraduate study. A personal statement outlining motivation, relevant experience, and objectives for undertaking the Arts by Research program is mandatory. Additionally, applicants may be asked to participate in an interview or submit a presentation of their work to assess their suitability and commitment to the research area. Candidates are encouraged to contact potential supervisors to discuss their research ideas prior to application. The program aims to cultivate independent research skills, critical analysis, and original creative or scholarly outputs, which may take the form of a thesis, practice-as-research work, or a combination of both, aligned with the individual’s research plan. Overall, successful applicants will demonstrate a clear, achievable research plan, strong academic or professional background in relevant fields, and a compelling motivation to contribute original knowledge or creative insights through their research.

The University of Bedfordshire offers flexible financing options for students pursuing the Arts By Research programme, designed to accommodate a diverse student body with varying financial backgrounds. Funding opportunities include government-backed loans, scholarships, bursaries, and external funding sources. UK students may be eligible for postgraduate loans provided by the UK government, which can cover tuition fees up to a certain limit, helping to reduce financial barriers to advanced study. International students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities offered by the university, which reward academic achievement and potential contribution to the university community; these scholarships often provide partial tuition fee waivers. Additionally, the university has partnerships with various arts organizations and funding bodies that may offer grants and fellowships for research projects aligned with the programme’s focus.

Students are also advised to consider external funding options, including independent research grants and sponsorship from arts foundations and professional arts bodies. The university's financial support team provides guidance on eligibility criteria and application processes for all available funding sources. Payment plans are available to facilitate manageable installment payments throughout the academic year, and some students may be eligible for work-study opportunities, allowing them to earn while studying to offset expenses. Furthermore, prospective students are encouraged to contact the university’s admissions and financial aid offices early to discuss individual circumstances and explore personalized funding solutions. Overall, the university strives to ensure that financial considerations do not hinder access to arts research education by offering comprehensive and varied financial support options tailored to meet student needs.

The Arts by Research program at the University of Bedfordshire offers a unique opportunity for students to engage deeply with their chosen artistic discipline through an investigative and experimental approach. This program is designed for practitioners who want to explore innovative methods of artistic creative practice, combining theoretical study with practical application. Students enrolled in this program typically pursue studio-based research, where they develop original work in areas such as fine arts, performance, digital media, or multidisciplinary practices. The degree promotes a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to interact with industry professionals, fellow artists, and academics to enhance their practice and develop a critical understanding of contemporary arts discourse.

The program emphasizes the importance of individual research projects, allowing students to tailor their study areas according to personal interests and professional aspirations. Through a combination of seminars, workshops, and one-on-one supervision, students are guided to produce a substantial body of work that contributes new ideas or techniques to their field. Additionally, the program encourages extensive critical reflection and contextual analysis, helping students situate their practice within wider social, cultural, and political frameworks. The Arts by Research is suitable for emerging artists, practitioners, or academics wishing to advance their research skills and artistic output.

Students benefit from excellent facilities, including state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and digital resources, which support experimentation and innovation. The program also prepares graduates for further research careers, exhibitions, or professional practice, emphasizing the development of a personal artistic voice and a rigorous research methodology. The assessment usually involves the presentation of a major body of work accompanied by a written thesis or research report. The program is typically completed over a period of 1-3 years full-time or part-time, offering flexibility for working professionals. Overall, the Arts by Research program at the University of Bedfordshire aims to foster creative growth, critical inquiry, and public engagement through an intensive research environment tailored to individual artistic pursuits.