Creative practice researchers will soon have the opportunity to incorporate practical elements into their research, alongside their written thesis, for doctorates undertaken at The University of Auckland.

The University is proposing to introduce an allowance for creative practice to be incorporated into PhD research.  This option for study is hoped to be available to students by July 2010.

The examination for candidates approved to incorporate creative work within their PhD will comprise the presentation of a body of creative work (including mediums such as fine art, performances or films) and a written thesis as an integrated whole.  The maximum word count for a written thesis presented alongside creative work will be less than that required for a PhD without a creative work component.
 
“Creative practice research can reveal cultural and artistic knowledge that is embodied or expressed through methods other than text,” says Dr Nicholas Rowe, Associate Dean (Postgraduate) of the University’s National Institute of Creative Arts and Industries. “Creative practice research addresses a contemporary global direction in philosophy that recognises that not all knowledge is language or text-based and that philosophical understandings may be realised through various mediums.”

“A number of people have been eagerly waiting for this announcement” says Dr Rowe. “The University of Auckland has already been approached by other New Zealand universities which are interested in how creative practice research can be incorporated into a PhD. It is anticipated to become a popular option with creative practitioners looking to further their research.”

A public discussion on the nature and importance of creative practice research will be held during The University of Auckland’s Creative PhD Research Seminar on Tuesday 18 May.  In this seminar leading creative practice researchers will reflect on how creative arts and academia can combine to contribute new knowledge.  For information and registration visit:  www.creative.auckland.ac.nz/phd

Further information
The University of Auckland’s National Institute of Creative Arts and Industries comprises the School of Architecture and Planning, Elam School of Fine Arts, the Centre for New Zealand Art Research and Discovery (CNZARD), the School of Music and the Dance Studies Programme.