This article explores the subject of practice-based research, its application in the creative arts and its role in generating new forms of knowledge in the context of the PhD. Our aim is to provide more clarity about the nature of practice-based research, the approach we advocate and how it contributes to new knowledge that can be shared and scrutinized in a form that is both accessible and rich in its representation of the full scope of creative arts research. We draw on examples spanning over 35 years of experience in supervising interdisciplinary PhD research programs in the arts, design and digital media.

As soon as the creative arts migrated from academies into colleges and universities, questions about accreditation and evaluation arose. From its inception, the master of fine arts (MFA) degree has been problematic. Although the College Art Association published standards for the MFA in 1977, confusion remains between this terminal degree and the nonterminal master’s degree (MA) in fine arts. Some believe that the solution to this problem is to establish the PhD as the terminal degree in fine arts; however, this solution is problematic in other ways: Standard approaches to research and publication in PhD programs do not mesh with the reality of studio-based creative inquiry and production. A better solution might be the development of a doctor of fine arts (DFA) degree.

Many art academics within U.S. institutions have little understanding of the Creative Arts PhD. Moreover, this has lead to the proliferation of a great deal of misinformation as U.S. academics struggle to sift through a growing body of literature on the subject. The author, who believes there is a very real and demonstrated need for more critical “nuts and bolts” or basic information on how such programs have been developed, implemented, staffed and legitimated, created a case study that focuses upon the developmental path and outcomes of a practice-led Creative Arts PhD program. A primary goal of the study was to critically assess the viability of applying the gathered data/findings toward the development of an appropriately adjusted program within a specific U.S. institution. Access to the complete “Case Study: The Development and Evolution of the Creative Arts Practice-led PhD at the University of Melbourne, Victorian College of the Arts” is available on www.mitpressjournals.org/toc/leon/50/5 .