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PhD Research

The National College of Art and Design is the major provider of postgraduate studies in art and design nationally, and is committed to growth and excellence in this area. We offer a range of specialisms and interdisciplinary options, and are currently expanding the range of opportunities and programmes for postgraduate study. (See www.ncad.ie/postgraduate)

The College provides a unique interdisciplinary, practice-oriented and a theoretically-engaged context for postgraduate work in the studio. NCAD also provides a unique context for written thesis workof a historical, critical or theoretical nature which addresses the study of art, design, education or cultural practices in general.

We welcome applications from graduates in art or design practice, history of art and design, and education. However, we are also open to applications from other disciplines including (but not limited to) performance studies, philosophy, history, cultural studies, communications and new technology/new media subject areas.

A key requirement in applying to pursue research-led or practice-based postgraduate work is the submission of a research proposal.

This should be a concise, clear and detailed outline of a programme of work. It should identify the context of the project proposed, the aim of the project and the question or theme at the heart of the research project.

Entry Requirements and Application Procedure

Educational Standard

  1. An approved bachelor degree at a minimum level of 2nd Class Honours.
  2. The College will consider applications from holders of diplomas in art or design (minimum level 2nd Class Honours or equivalent) in a field of study related to the proposed subject matter for a master's degree.
  3. Applications on the basis of proven relevant work experience will be considered.

Those applying on the basis of 2 or 3 above may be required to pass a qualifying examination appropriate to each case, before being admitted to master's degree studies. Attendance at selected undergraduate lecture courses at NCAD, together with related written work, may be required.

Method of Application

Graduates of NCAD do not need to submit item 5 below. Please send your application material to The Registrar, to arrive at the National College of Art and Design by Thursday 1 April 2010 (entry one) and Wednesday 1 November 2010 (entry two).

  1. Completed application form (PDF 84k)
  2. A recent CV
  3. Two references: Reference 1: Completed reference form from the head of the faculty/department in the college from which the applicant is graduating or has graduated. Reference 2: Completed reference form from the applicant's course tutor or present employer.
  4. Certified transcripts of courses followed.
  5. Certified copies of degree/ certificates and/or other appropriate third level qualifications bearing the official stamp of the institution.

AND The following items for PhD research:

  1. Five copies of research proposal. Please refer to the College guidelines on the format of the proposal. Download: Proposal Format Guidelines for Postgraduate Applications (PDF 112k)
  2. Five copies of two examples of recent written work: for example an essay, a published article, or other relevant text etc.
  3. Studio applicants only: If you are proposing to do a studio (i.e. practice-based) PhD you must also include documentation of your previous or current work, which you should send in whichever is the most appropriate of these formats:
    • Slide form (35mm) - 12 - 20 slides clearly marked with your name and numbered. Slides should be accompanied by a numbered slide list, giving title of work, medium (if applicable) and date.
    • Videotape (VHS) or DVD. Short work no longer than 15 minutes or else a 15 minute compilation of clips from different work
    • Computer disc (Mac or PC) with information on file format. Please ensure that images provide reliable and clear information about the nature of your work
    • Please ensure your name is clearly marked on this material.

* Please note that the submission of an application form alone is not a complete application. Please refer to this page for the items which must accompany it. Emailed applications cannot be accepted.

Download: Application to Masters and Doctoral Programmes - checklists for applications (PDF 260k)

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Interdisciplinary Research Projects

The College especially welcomes interdisciplinary researchers and practitioners, and we are committed to tailoring research supervision to the needs of the individual practitioner or researcher. If you have a specific interdisciplinary project that you would like to propose for study at NCAD, please contact the Head of Research and Postgraduate Development at postgraduate@ncad.ie. Further information is available on-line at www.ncad.ie/postgraduate


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