PhD Biography at University of Buckingham

Programme overview

The cutting-edge PHD in Biography remains unique to Buckingham and is consistently rated ‘excellent’ by external examiners and inspectors. The PhD in Biography is an advanced research degree, awarded on the basis of a thesis and an oral viva voce examination. The primary purpose of the PhD is the preparation and presentation of a substantial piece of independent and original academic research, completed in three years if studying full-time and usually six years if studying part-time. There is also the possibility of early submission in cases where the student makes particularly rapid progress.

Faculty: School of Humanities and Social Sciences | Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time | Study mode: full-time, part-time | Intake: September 2026, January 2027 | Location: Buckingham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Some students know from the outset the precise subject on which they intend to work. For most, however, the definition of a research proposal is a gradual process, with the student starting with a general area of interest, and then focusing on a more closely defined topic as a result of further reading and consultation, usually with their supervisor and the Biography Programme Director. Every PhD student in the School of Humanities is supported by two supervisors.

Career pathways

Founded by eminent historian Professor Emeritus Jane Ridley thirty years ago, this Programme has produced many alumni who have gone on to successfully publish academic and popular biographical works.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a first or upper second-class degree at undergraduate level and a Master’s degree. Students without a Master’s degree and wishing to undertake doctoral research may enroll on the relevant MA programme in their first year and, given appropriate progress, ‘upgrade’ to PhD registration at the start of their second year of full-time study; the first year of MA study counts as the first of the three years required for the PhD. Part-time options are also available.

Domestic applicants: GBP 8,267 a year (2026/27). Full-time (3 years); From £8,267 per year Source

International applicants: GBP 14,500 a year (2026/27). Full-time (3 years); From £14,500 per year Source

Intake: September 2026, January 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/course-redirect/?coursecode=RDPF3PBI

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