Postgraduate research
The School of the Arts & Media (SAM) hosts a vibrant community of postgraduate students pursuing research and creative practice in disciplines spanning creative writing, film, literature, media, music and, theatre and performance studies.
As a Higher Degree Research (HDR) student in SAM, you will work under the guidance of world-leading experts in your field while also participating in the school’s rich and interdisciplinary research culture. The school coordinates an annual suite of HDR workshops to foster academic progress and professional development, as well as organising regular social events where you can connect with other HDRs.
Students in the School of the Arts & Media can pursue four HDR programs: PhD, PhD (Creative Practice), Master of Arts (Research) and Master of Philosophy. Consult the relevant handbook entries for eligibility requirements and other details.
Research with us
All HDR applicants in the School of the Arts & Media must complete the School’s Expression of Interest (EoI) form. If your EoI is accepted, you will then be invited to submit a formal application to the UNSW Graduate Research School.
The first step in preparing to submit an Expression of Interest is to contact a potential supervisor for your project. If you do not already have a supervisor in mind, you can browse a directory of academics in the School of the Arts & Media to find a researcher whose expertise aligns with your proposed project.
If you wish to apply for a scholarship, you will find information about the application process and scholarship deadlines here. Please note that the School of the Arts & Media EoI deadline is normally approximately one month earlier than the UNSW scholarship deadline.
Application process
- Find and work with a nominated supervisor to develop your research proposal.
- Verify scholarship conditions and English language requirements.
- Prepare your EoI submission.
- Submit your EoI to the School of the Arts & Media.
Supervisor-led steps
- Work with your applicant to develop a research proposal.
- Obtain referee reports.
- Support your applicant’s EoI submission preparation.
- Submit supervisor's documents.
SAM HDR Team
The SAM HDR team supports Higher Degree Research candidates throughout every stage of their research journey in the School of the Arts & Media. Together, they manage the full lifecycle of candidature, from initial inquiries and admissions, through progress milestones, seminars and examinations. The team ensures HDR candidates are well‑guided, informed and supported.
John Attridge
John Attridge is the Postgraduate Research Convenor in the School of the Arts & Media. His main area of responsibility within the SAM HDR team is candidature, which involves everything between admission and examination.
Laetitia Nanquette
Laetitia Nanquette is the HDR Examinations coordinator, which means she focuses on the examination process and organises some of the HDR seminars.
Kim Burwell
Kim Burwell coordinates HDR Admissions, dealing with inquiries, expressions of interest, and applications for entry and scholarships.
Supervisors, scholarships and current candidates
Find a research supervisor
We're home to a dynamic network of academics and practitioners, all connected by curiosity, creativity and a commitment to progress for all.
Scholarships and prizes
At UNSW, we recognise our emerging researchers with awards and prizes. We also provide postgraduate researchers with the opportunity to apply for a wide range of prestigious scholarships.
Current research candidates
Meet some of the open-minded, progressive and strategic minds completing their postgraduate research at the School of the Arts & Media.