PhD Heritage and Preservation Studies (Distance Learning) at Durham University

Programme overview

The PhD in Heritage and Preservation Studies is a five-year part-time distance-learning doctorate for professionals in archaeology, heritage, museums and conservation, turning an applied project from their employment into doctoral research.

Department: Department of Archaeology | Duration: 5 years part-time (distance learning) | Intake: Induction in early October | Study mode: online | Location: Durham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Candidates travel to Durham at least four times in five years, usually annually, for stays of at least one week: induction in early October and two formal work reviews (usually May or June). Between visits they join hybrid seminars, termly fora and monthly online meetings with the supervisory team.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants are professionals employed in archaeology, heritage, museums or conservation with an applied project based on materials or issues they engage with through employment. Applicants normally hold a masters-level qualification in a related area with evidence of research training, and a strong project proposal developed with a supervisor before application. A standard UK visa is sufficient for study visits.

Domestic applicants: GBP 23,750 a year (2026/27). Home/Islands full-time fee for PhD in Heritage & Preservation Studies (Distance Learning), 2026/27 entry Source

International applicants: GBP 35,500 a year (2026/27). Overseas full-time fee for PhD in Heritage & Preservation Studies (Distance Learning), 2026/27 entry Source

Intake: Induction in early October

Duration: 5 years part-time (distance learning)

Apply through the official page: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/how-to-apply/

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