Anthropology, Media and Performance PhD

One of the central aims of this programme is to combine visual, aural and textual media in an imaginative, self-reflexive and critically aware manner to generate original knowledge in one or more of the academic fields from which it draws, namely Anthropology, Applied Theatre, Screen Studies and Performance/Media Practice. The methods of assessment have therefore been devised to test both the development of skills and competences in the use of performance and media practice for the purposes of ethnographic research, and development of text-based writing and intellectual abilities.

In the training phase, students will be able to draw on a broad range of modules. These involve an equally broad range of assessment methods, ranging from conventional 4000-word assessment essays to portfolios of practical work. Each student will have be assigned at least two supervisors, normally with one in Drama, the other in Anthropology. One of these supervisors will be considered the `principal supervisor' and will be primarily responsible for monitoring the student's progression.

The thesis, produced in the third year, will provide evidence of the creation and interpretation of knowledge that extends the frontiers of the disciplines of Drama (incorporating Applied Theatre, Screen and Performance Studies) and/or Social Anthropology through original research. It will consist of the following: 1) a practical outcome, typically a media production (in the form of film, photography and/or audio recordings) and/or a theatrical performance; 2) a 20-50,000 word dissertation containing a presentation of the research as a contribution to the academic discipline of Drama (including Applied Theatre, Screen and Performance Studies) and/or social anthropology; an exploration of ethical issues of research and practice; a statement of methodology. The thesis will be examined by means of a viva, as provided for in University regulations.

Postgraduate study is supported in the Martin Harris Centre for Music and Drama through an exclusive postgraduate computer cluster and postgraduate common room.  Postgraduates are also able to borrow DVDs and videos from the Lenagan Library in the basement of the Martin Harris building.

As well as seminars and public lectures in the larger School of Arts, Histories and Cultures, postgraduates in Screen Studies are encouraged to participate in our regular Research Encounters seminar series, which brings together staff and postgraduate students to discuss their recent and current research.

For Screen Practice at Drama, postgraduates are able to book professional digital video cameras, equipment for sound recording, an AVID suite for non-linear editing and a digital recording studio available for audio projects.

The Centre for Screen Studies also collaborates with the Media Centre at the University of Manchester, providing advanced audio-visual facilities and extensive technical support.

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Support Office. Email: disability@manchester.ac.uk