The faculty is a thriving research community and many staff contributed to its success in the last Research Assessment Exercise in 1996 where it gained a 3A rating in both Art and Design and Drama, Dance and Performing Arts. The faculty's achievement in establishing a strong and innovative research culture over recent years has attracted an increasing number of postgraduates from Britain and many other countries to study here. To further strengthen its research activities the faculty has appointed a Professor of Research.
Active researchers are, of course, most closely involved in supervising postgraduate work.
By drawing on the established strengths of the faculty in teaching and research, the Graduate School is creating distinctive approaches to postgraduate study related to the best in contemporary creative and academic practice nationally and internationally. As well as its many collaborations with industries and organisations in Britain, the faculty has established strong links with academies and organisations worldwide, which further strengthen its undergraduate, postgraduate and research provision and many current research projects have international dimensions. Prospective research students are welcome to submit project proposals for consideration at any time. Acceptance is dependent on the availability of suitable supervision as well as the merit of the proposal itself. As an integral part of its overall educational provision the faculty is committed to the expansion of the university's role as a major provider of art and design activities for both the city and the region.