PhD History of Western Architecture at University of Buckingham

Programme overview

Having a historical perspective enables people to make sense of today’s rapidly changing world and is one of the five most popular subjects. The PhD in the History of Western Architecture 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 | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September 2026 | Location: Buckingham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Every PhD student in School of Humanities is supported by two supervisors. Supervisors are experts in their field of study and support students throughout the PhD. Students will also benefit from the advice and support of other academic members of the Faculty who will be involved in progression through the various stages of the PhD, including Annual Review meetings with a senior professor (where progress is monitored and support offered towards the planning of the next period of study).

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

Apply through the official page: https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/course-redirect/?coursecode=RDPF3PWA

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