English Drama & Film - Research

A UCD PhD is a four year research degree, undertaken within a clearly structured programme leading to the production of a thesis of around 100,000 words which will make an original contribution to knowledge. The programme includes taught modules, a Research and Professional Development Plan and the possibility to develop teaching skills.



All students are assigned a primary supervisor. In some cases where the work is interdisciplinary, co-supervision will be offered. Students are supported by supervisors in their programme of independent research, which frequently culminates in the production of research worthy of peer-reviewed publications.



The School of English, Drama and Film and the College of Arts and Humanities at UCD are consistently ranked highly. Members of the School have attracted some of the most competitive research grants and awards available in Ireland and internationally. These include funding from the following bodies: European Research Council, Irish Research Council, Fulbright Ireland, Marie Sklodowska-Curie Award Enterprise Ireland and the Irish Foundation.



At the School of English, Drama and Film, we offer wide-ranging experience in the supervision of PhD students Many of our PhD students have been successful in obtaining postdoctoral funding following their research.

It is expected that PhD students will have an academic background necessary to support doctoral level research. The majority of our candidates have a strong graduate and postgraduate record (a high MA result of 2:1- 1:1 or GPA above 3.2). The School requires an IELTS band 8 if English is not your first language. A potential supervisor will be able to advise on the knowledge they expect their students to have gained before applying for entry to the programme.



In addition to subject specific knowledge, all PhD and MLitt students are expected to have a basic understanding of research methods before applying for entry to the PhD and MLitt programme. It is compulsory to complete Research Intergrity Training during all UCD research degrees.

4/6 years, FT/PT, On Campus.

Z124 English, Drama & Film Doctor of Philosophy Part-Time Commencing January 2026 Graduate Research



Z123 English, Drama & Film Doctor of Philosophy Full-Time Commencing May 2026 Graduate Research



Z124 English, Drama & Film Doctor of Philosophy Part-Time Commencing May 2026 Graduate Research



Z123 English, Drama & Film Doctor of Philosophy Full-Time Commencing September 2026 Graduate Research



Z124 English, Drama & Film Doctor of Philosophy Part-Time Commencing September 2026 Graduate Research