Research rating (RAE 2001): 4-5*

INTRODUCTION
This programme is designed to encourage you to develop a way of seeing thought in a chosen domain of enquiry as a reflection of the evolving relation between humans and things, between humans and their environment.

This programme is based entirely on research, leading to completion of a thesis, and is designed for candidates who wish to pursue independent work with the support of a supervisor. It is examined by a thesis of 25–50,000 words. You will acquire a portfolio of critical orientation and communication concepts, skills, and contacts relevant for working practices in contemporary institutional structures, and in the conditions dictated by the culture of information society. You will be encouraged to develop a concrete material (graphic, digital) base for your conceptual work. In researching your topic this way you will come into contact with professionals from within and outside the University and this may be a natural starting point for making useful contacts and gaining experience for your career. The project may also serve as a basis for a PhD degree. Examples of project titles can be found at www.phil.ncl.ac.uk

RESEARCH SPECIALISMS
The research programme hosted by the Centre for Research in Knowledge Science and Society (KNOSSOS) occupies a new ground at the interface between specialist thought and human uses of thought. Our research is about the concepts and practices humans need when they ‘match’ knowledge with the ‘human condition’, with the requirements of the actual place or context in which a book, a painting, a computer program or ecological strategy comes to life. It addresses the urgent need to understand the changing role of knowledge in society and to gain access to the new career opportunities this change brings about.

Areas of supervision include conceptual issues informed by the continental philosophy tradition (for example Heideggerian – Dr L Iyer; Nietzschean – Dr M Baldwin; Hegelian – Dr D Rose); new personalised approaches to educational methodology and learning in the post-mechanical age (Professor M Jaros); being at the interface between knowledge generation and application (for example in communication and object-based enquiry – Professor M Jaros; in science, religion and cosmology – Dr G McCartan; and in information technology and computer modelling – Dr J Hagon). Please look at our website for publications and contact us for further details.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
Applicants whose first language is not English require IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 575 (paper-based) or 233 (computer-based), or equivalent. The INTO Newcastle University Centre, www.ncl.ac.uk/into, can provide extra tuition to help you meet our English language requirements.

TYPICAL FUNDING
All students: The Centre for Research in Knowledge Science and Society (KNOSSOS). Research councils; Arts Council England; British Council; DTI. Large research institutions which run programmes concerning the knowledge-human interface over a wide range of areas(eg The Wellcome Trust, NATO Research Fund, UN/UNESCO, Socrates-Erasmus and other European schemes such as European Commission Directorate General for Education and Culture, eLearning Initiative).
International students: can also apply for University scholarships.
For more information about these funding opportunities, see www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding

Applications are considered throughout the year although specific deadlines for funding may apply. We will discuss your needs and background with you and then decide on a theme for your research.

For general application guidelines and to apply online or to order an application form, see www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply

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