This programme gives you the opportunity to film and edit an hour-long documentary film as part of your research, accompanied by a 30,000 word written defence. Nominally, the audio-visual component of the PhD is a documentary film, although the department is open to applications that may also incorporate elements of drama, avant-garde or essayistic filmmaking. Indeed, the term ‘documentary’ is already an extremely broad one which encompasses many different modes of engagement and representation. We would therefore encourage applicants to consider the style and structure of their film in detail when compiling their application, and also to consider why a film is the most appropriate method for pursuing their research. You will work with supervisors and technicians to develop this practice-based project, using our editing suites and filming equipment. You may wish to compare this programme to the Film Studies PhD where you will produce an 80,000 word thesis rather than the filming and editing requirement of this course. The Audio-visual PhD enables you to make an original contribution to the disciplines of film and television studies, preparing you for prospective careers in the media industries, academia and related disciplines. The Department brings together the expertise of our Film Studies and Creative Writing staff, opening up exciting new opportunities for postgraduates to benefit from synergies between the two fields. Your degree will provide excellent preparation for employment and this will be further enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University.