PHD Architecture

Program Overview

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Course summary

PHD Architecture

Investigate a research topic of your choice during a period of supervised study and make an original contribution to knowledge in architecture.

How you learn

You’ll work with an experienced Director of Studies and at least one other supervisor with expertise in your chosen research area and methods. They’ll support you in defining and implementing your research programme, providing direction as you develop as an independent researcher. They’ll also help you plan training and professional development.

You’ll join a dynamic and inclusive community of researchers and PhD students in the Sheffield Creative Industries Institute – with opportunities to share your work at the university and beyond. You’ll receive training and guidance on professional standards in research practice, including ethics, project management and enhancing your personal effectiveness and communication skills. You’ll also explore how to publish your research and establish an academic profile.

You learn through:

• independent study
• supervision and feedback
• approved research activities
• researcher development training workshops
• level 7 research methods modules (as necessary)
• presenting your research at conferences and seminars
• taking part in lively debate and discussion with your peers
• writing and defending a doctoral thesis

Course support

Your learning is supported by access to:

• a dedicated postgraduate research tutor for architecture
• a postgraduate research administration team
• a library research support team and 24-hour access to library facilities
• an Academic Skills Centre with sessions specifically for doctoral researchers
• the University English Scheme for international students
• a programme of support for doctoral student wellbeing

Applied learning

Networking opportunities

Throughout your course you’ll have chances to interact with other PhD students, academics and specialists in your field. Funds are available for you to present your work in professional academic settings at international and national conferences – and/or in public exhibitions – and we encourage you to seek opportunities to engage different audiences with your research. All our doctoral students make a vital contribution to the intellectual life of the University from the earliest stages of their research.

All Sheffield Hallam PhD students are supported to enter the national ‘3-minute thesis’ competition. As an architecture PhD student, you’ll also expand your network for future research and employment by collaborating with the local community, professional bodies and industry.

Live projects

Doctoral projects explore and offer real-world critical insights on environmental, social and political issues. Some are developed in collaboration with external partners, such as local metropolitan borough councils, local and international charity organisations, creative and business industries and architecture-related professional bodies.

Field trips

Field studies within and outside the UK may take place for PhD research projects that involve case studies or field data collection – all discussed as part of the admissions process. Financial support is available to conduct approved fieldwork activity.

Future careers

Researchers can enter professions as acknowledged experts in their chosen specialism.

Career opportunities can be found in:

• architectural firms
• the construction sector
• roles related to government policy-making
• academic research
• teaching positions

Equipment and facilities

Doctoral researchers in the Sheffield Creative Industries Institute are based at the City Campus. You’ll have access to office and academic community space to work and convene. There’s 24-hour library access and a library research support team on hand to offer expert advice and training on all aspects of information and publishing.

Other facilities include:

• specialist laboratories for research and study
• dedicated computing suites and simulation software
• a range of industry-standard equipment for field studies
• digital fabrication, laser cutting and 3D printing facilities
• printing, copying and scanning service
• technician support for accessing specialist facilities

Where will I study?

You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

City Campus

City Campus is located in the heart of Sheffield, within minutes of the train and bus stations.

Adsetts library

Adsetts Library is located on our City Campus. It's open 24 hours a day, every day.

Entry requirements

All students

Applicants will need to provide evidence of:

• A relevant undergraduate degree qualification (2.1 or above)
• A relevant masters level qualification (Merit or above) with strong performance (60%+) in research related modules and dissertation. Note that studentship applicants must have all degree results in hand before applying

To apply, candidates must submit a fully complete online application including:

• A 1,500-word research proposal
• Degree certificates
• Module transcripts
• Details of two referees who can comment on your academic ability and readiness for PhD study
• Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

All suitable candidates are invited to an interview and asked to give a short presentation about their proposed research. You will be asked questions about the project proposal and your interest in PhD level study. You are encouraged to find out more about our areas of research interest and expertise before applying. Potential supervisors can be identified through the research centre website linked above or by contacting the Postgraduate Research Tutor for advice.

International Students (additional information)

If you are an International student (including non-UK European) see International Entry Requirements for guidance on entry requirements for your country.

All international applicants are required to show evidence (current within the last two years) of English language ability before embarking on a PhD. For this course, it must be at a minimum level of IELTS 7.0 with 7.0 in all skill components (or equivalent). For more information about the different English language qualifications we accept see English Language Qualifications. We also accept successful completion (within the last two years) of a UK degree course taught in English.

If evidence of English Language ability is not supplied at application, an offer of PhD study would be conditional on provision of such evidence.

Students who are based overseas may be able to study for a PhD by Distance Learning, subject to establishing a satisfactory distance learning agreement, as part of the application process.

Fees and funding

Home students

Our tuition fee for UK postgraduate research students will be aligned to the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) fees which have not yet been confirmed for 2025/26. For an indication of the tuition fees, please view the 2024/25 course page.

If you are studying an undergraduate course, postgraduate pre-registration course or postgraduate research course over more than one academic year then your tuition fees may increase in subsequent years in line with Government regulations or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) published fees. More information can be found in our terms and conditions under student fees regulations.

International students

Our tuition fee for International/EU postgraduate research students starting full-time study in 2025/26 is £17,725 per year.

Postgraduate student loans

Up to £12,858 is available in 2025/26 for home students on most masters courses.

Additional course costs

The links below allow you to view estimated general course additional costs, as well as costs associated with key activities on specific courses. These are estimates and are intended only as an indication of potential additional expenses. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.

General course additional costs

Additional costs for Sheffield Creative Industries Institute (PDF, 268.6KB)

Legal information

Any offer of a place to study is subject to your acceptance of the University’s Terms and Conditions and Student Regulations.