PhD Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Planning at Harvard University

Programme overview

The PhD in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Planning is for those entering teaching and advanced research careers in the history and theory of architecture, architectural technology, landscape architecture and urban form, or in the social, economic, technological and ecological analysis of the built environment. Students are enrolled in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences although they work mainly with GSD faculty.

Faculty: Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences | Department: PhD Program in Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning | Intake: Application deadline January 5, 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Cambridge, MA, United States

What you will study

Small cohorts with close faculty contact and interdisciplinary work with History of Art and Architecture, Visual Studies, Anthropology, American Studies, History of Science, the Kennedy School and SEAS.

Career pathways

Most graduates secure faculty positions at schools such as Columbia, Yale, MIT, UC Berkeley, Toronto, McGill, The Courtauld and the University of Basel.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Programme: a professional degree in architecture, landscape architecture or urban planning is recommended but not required; applicants must propose a major subject matching the interests of a member of the PhD standing committee. A writing sample on a related subject (maximum 20 pages) and a personal statement are required; design portfolios are not typically considered. GRE General is required. Three letters of recommendation are required (at least one from a faculty member at the school of the most recent degree unless out of school for more than five years). English proficiency for non-native speakers: an undergraduate degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction, or TOEFL iBT minimum 5 (95 for tests taken before January 21, 2026) with Speaking minimum 4.5, or IELTS Academic minimum 7 with Speaking minimum 6.5. A master's degree does not count as proof. Application deadline January 5, 2027 (5:00 p.m.).

USD 59,048 a year (2026-27). Harvard Griffin GSAS full tuition for PhD students, required for the first two years of study, 2026-27; reduced tuition is $15,352 in years three and four and the continuation fee is $3,906 after year four; PhD students may receive grants covering tuition Source

Intake: Application deadline January 5, 2027

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