PhD Garden History at University of Buckingham

Programme overview

Course outline The PhD in Garden History 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 | Location: Buckingham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

There is an enormously broad range of possible thesis subjects in Garden History, ranging from the history of specific garden design styles, the critical assessment of the work of specific garden-designers from the 17th and the 20th century, or the creation of particular gardens. Studies may also be situated within aspects of the evolving attitudes towards power and nature and studies within the relationship between garden history, literature, art and culture more widely.

Career pathways

The University’s Course Directors, students’ supervisors, and the Research Officer and Tutor for Graduate Students are available to discuss students’ post-graduation plans and how they may utilise most effectively the skills acquired during their studies.

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. Age is usually an irrelevancy. In exceptional cases, extensive and relevant work experience may also qualify a student for postgraduate research. Students without a Master’s degree and wishing to undertake doctoral research may enrol 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. Wherever possible, students are encouraged to begin their PhD studies at the start of the academic year (the Autumn Term, beginning in late September), in order to be in step with their peers.

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

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

Apply through the official page: https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/course-redirect/?coursecode=RDPF3PGH

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