History PhD at Royal Holloway, University of London

Programme overview

We are one of the largest and most diverse history departments in the United Kingdom. We offer expert supervision in a wide range of subject areas, both in geographic and chronological terms - from the Reconstruction South of the US to colonial Tahiti, and from ancient Rome to contemporary Britain.

Department: History | Duration: 4 years full time or 5 years part time | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Egham, England, United Kingdom

Career pathways

We are proud of our many successful postgraduate research students that have gone on to academic positions in the UK and around the world. Several recent holders of doctoral awards have joined the civil service, or are working in the burgeoning heritage and museum sector.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

We require a UK Bachelor honours degree at 2:1 or equivalent in History or a cognate subject such as Politics or English Literature. Non-standard backgrounds may be considered. For the MPhil/PhD we normally require a good Masters degree in History or in a subject that is cognate with History (such as Politics or English Literature). Before applying applicants must contact and secure a before submitting your application for your research project. Alternatively, you can get in touch with the Director of Postgraduate Education making an informal enquiry for your chosen research degree to inquire whether there is any other additional material they require you to submit in your application. A research proposal is required at point of application. Applicants will also be asked to provide two references in support of the application. English language: IELTS: 6.5 overall. Writing 7.0. No other subscore lower than 5.5.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27) Source

International applicants: GBP 27,500 a year (2026/27) Source

Duration: 4 years full time or 5 years part time

Apply through the official page: https://royalhollowayacuk.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login

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