Program Overview

Architecture (Social Science) PhD

Overview

The Architecture (Social Science) PhD program at the University of Nottingham is a research-based degree that explores the social aspects of architecture. The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the complex relationships between architecture, society, and culture.

Research Areas

Research in architecture at Nottingham covers a diverse multidisciplinary field, including:

• Architectural history, theory, and criticism
• Philosophy of technology
• Critical and cultural theory
• Architecture and the body
• Architecture and language
• Museums and national identity

Entry Requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis, and the university accepts a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements for the 2025 entry are as follows:

Home/UK Students

• Degree: 2:1 (or international equivalent) and/or a master's at merit level or above in a relevant subject
• Additional information: Students are encouraged to get in touch with a member of academic staff about their research proposal before submitting an application.

EU/International Students

• Degree: 2:1 (or international equivalent) and/or a master's at merit level or above in a relevant subject
• International and EU equivalents: The university accepts a wide range of qualifications from all over the world.
• IELTS: 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in each element)
• English language requirements: In addition to IELTS, the university also accepts other English language qualifications, including TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB, and O level English.

Fees

• Home/UK: £5,006
• International: £23,000

Funding

There are many ways to fund a research degree, including scholarships and government loans. The university's guide to postgraduate funding provides more information.

Support

Researcher Training and Development

The Researcher Academy is a network for researchers and staff who support them. The academy promotes a healthy research culture, cultivates researcher excellence, and develops creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Graduate Centres

The university's graduate centres are dedicated community spaces on campus for postgraduates. Each space has areas for studying, socializing, computer work, seminars, and kitchen facilities.

Student Support

Students have access to a range of support services, including:

• Academic and disability support
• Childcare services
• Counselling service
• Faith support
• Financial support
• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Visa and immigration advice
• Welfare support

Careers

The university's careers advice and graduate destinations provide support for students considering a career in academia, industry, or other fields. Expert staff work with students to explore PhD career options, apply for vacancies, develop interview skills, and meet employers.

Where You Will Learn

Department of Architecture and Built Environment

Students will study in the Department of Architecture and the Built Environment, a collection of beautiful buildings set in a scenic park. The department has dedicated studio space for all students, with the Centre for 3D design nearby, providing a wide range of equipment and support for model-making and built projects.

University Park Campus

The University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings, and modern facilities. The campus is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003. Most schools and departments are based on the campus, which has libraries, shops, cafes, the Students' Union, sports village, and a health centre.