Skip to main content Skip to navigation

PhD Programmes

This programme allows you to think outside the box and pursue original and innovative interdisciplinary research. The PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies is our first degree, and it allows students to pursue research projects in line with the core aims of the Centre. Students applying to this programme will draw from more than one discipline in conducting their research, and often seek to combine or innovate at the level of research method. Contemporary challenges often fall between or cut across disciplinary expertise and this degree is designed to meet these challenges. Apply here

We also offer the joint a programme PhD in Media and Communication in collaboration with Centre for Cultural and Media Policy Studies (CCMPS). The programme is for students who wish to engage directly with the field of contemporary media. Students on this programme are able to combine research supervision with members in CIM and CCMPS and will have access to the research commuities of both Centres. If you wish to apply for this degree, you will need to apply through the Centre for Cultural and Media Policy Studies.

  1. Determine if you are eligible to apply for a PhD. There are no deadlines to apply for entry to the PhD, but there are deadlines relating to scholarships. If you wish to be considered for a scholarship, please consult the Funding Information below and work towards the deadlines specified. We recommend that candidates submit their applications as early as possible.
  2. Consider how you will fund your research. Full-time PhDs typically last between 3 to 4 years. In order to fund your study, you may need to apply for a scholarship, loan, or rely on support networks. Whatever the case, a clear funding strategy is needed before you commence your studies.
  3. Try to identify a potential supervisor, and make contact with them before submitting your application. Details of our academic staff members' expertise and areas of interest are avaailable on our Staff Profile pages.Link opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window If you require assistance identfying which member of staff is best placed to supervise your proposed research, please feel free to contact our Director of Postgraduate Research Studies (n.calvillo@warwick.ac.uk) Please note, Nerea Calvillo is on leave between September 2022-January 2023. During this time all inquiries are to be addressed to the Interim PGR Director: Maria Puig de la Bellacasa at Maria.Puig-de-la-Bellacasa@warwick.ac.uk
  4. You may wish to nominate one co-supervisor from outside CIM. If you wish to do this, please make clear why this is the case in your application.
  5. Write your research proposal. Your research proposal should be around 2,000 words (and include references), but the focus is on quality. The proposal should be uploaded along with your application. Your proposal should consider: the main research question/s; the background context of the study and existing research; the discipline/s upon which the project will draw; theoretical frameworks (what theories with the work draw on and why?); methodological approach (i.e. ethnography, digital methods, GIS, discourse analysis); the topic, main examples or case studies; and any possible issues the project may have (such as access to data or specific archives).
  6. Organise the supporting documents. This will involve uploading your CV, academic transcripts, language test results (if needed) and referee information. We recommend that you let your referees know in advance that you intend to apply and send them your application materials so they are best positioned to comment on your suitability for the programme.

For any academic questions please contact CIM’s PGR Director Nerea Calvillo at n.calvillo@warwick.ac.uk (possible supervisors, grants, etc). Please note, Nerea Calvillo is on leave between September 2022-January 2023. During this time all inquiries are to be addressed to the Interim PGR Director: Maria Puig de la Bellacasa at Maria.Puig-de-la-Bellacasa@warwick.ac.uk

For any administrative questions, please contact CIM’s PGR Administrator at CIM@warwick.ac.uk (documents required, transcripts, application process, etc)

CIM PhD Programme

CIM offers doctoral students the opportunity to carry out an interdisciplinary research programme of their own design. Through our wide in-house expertise, as well as the links we foster with other departments, we offer a stimulating environment that will challenge and support you throughout your study. The diverse expertise and research interests of our academic staff can be found here.

Our other courses:

MA Digital Media and Culture

MASc Data Visualisation

MSc Big Data and Digital Futures