Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Acting on Organisations - Dramatic Pedagogies, Work Culture & Performance
Fully FundedCoventry, United Kingdomphd· £21,805 per year (UKRI rate for 2026/27)
Project Overview
This collaborative project investigates how actor training skills are translated, adapted, and mobilised beyond the rehearsal room and stage.
Basic Information - Full Project Title: Acting on Organisations: How Dramatic Pedagogies Shape Work, Culture and Performance - Host Institution: University of Warwick - Department: Centre for Cultural and Media Policy Studies - Partner: Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), London - Study Level: PhD - Duration: 3.5 years - Start Date: January 2027 - Funding Type: Fully Funded (Home fees) - Stipend:
This innovative collaborative project investigates how actor training skills are translated, adapted, and mobilised beyond the rehearsal room and stage. Recent research shows that performing arts graduates apply capabilities such as communication, collaboration, adaptability, creativity, leadership, and resilience across diverse professions. However, there is a significant gap in understanding how these skills are enacted within organisations or how they actively contribute to shaping organisational cultures and outcomes.
The project invites applicants to explore the experiences of RADA graduates across different career pathways. It seeks to understand how dramatic pedagogies inform professional practice across various sectors, from corporate environments to public services. Furthermore, the research will examine the contribution of drama-based approaches to organisational learning, leadership development, and structural change.
Methodological approaches may include mixed methods research combining alumni career tracking, in-depth interviews, focus groups, comprehensive surveys, and detailed organisational case studies. This will provide a robust empirical foundation for the thesis.
How to Apply
Prospective candidates should apply via the University of Warwick's PhD application portal for the relevant programme. Ensure all required documents, including academic transcripts and a research proposal, are submitted before the deadline.