PhD Architecture
Course overview
The PhD in Architecture at the University of Strathclyde is a degree with lots of research work within three to four years. This programme is for candidates with a strong academic or professional background in architecture who wish to pursue advanced research.
The degree is focused on developing independent research, while being guided by academic staff within the Department of Architecture. Candidates work closely in consultation with their supervisors to complete their research project. This project will go on to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge in the discipline.
Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, training workshops, and academic events that support the development of both subject expertise and relevant skills. Training in advanced facilities, with the use of industry-standard tools, will help enhance your professional skills, ready for the work environment.
Entry requirements
To apply, you will need to submit an online application with a detailed research proposal (2-3 pages) outlining your project. Include your academic transcripts, a CV highlighting any relevant experience, and two references from academic or professional contacts.
Grade Requirements:
- You will need a first-class or upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or a master’s in architecture or a related field like urban design or conservation.
- International qualifications are fine if they are equivalent.
- Significant professional experience can also work
English Proficiency:
- If English is not your first language, aim for an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5.
- TOEFL or PTE are accepted—check the university’s site for details.
Scholarships
Asylum Seeker Scholarship
Value: Cost of tuition fees and essential study costs.
BBA International Scholarship
25% fee reduction per year (three years in total).
Faculty of Engineering International Scholarship for Masters Study
The value of the scholarship award is £6,000 and will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Up to £6,000Faculty of Engineering International Scholarship for Undergraduate Study
Value: 15% of tuition fees for each year of study - typically £4,650 for first year.
Faculty of Engineering: Dean’s International Excellence Award for Masters Study
Dean’s International Excellence Awards for Masters Study worth between £9,000 and £12,000 to exceptional applicants joining a postgraduate taught programme in September 2026.
Up to £9,000Faculty of Science International Excellence Scholarship for Postgraduate Taught Masters Students
The scholarships value will range from £7,000 to £8,000.
Up to £7,000Faculty of Science International Masters Scholarship
Scholarships of £6,000 are available to new international fee-paying students.
Up to £6,000Faculty of Science International Scholarship for MRes Physics
Scholarships of £7,000 are available to new international students joining the MRes Physics in the academic year 2025/26.
Up to £7,000Faculty of Science Scholarship for Online Masters Students
Scholarships of £1,900 are available to new students joining one of our online programmes in September 2026.
Up to £1,900Faculty of Science Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students
Scholarships of between £6,000 - £7,000 per year of study are available to new international students joining an eligible undergraduate degree in the Faculty of Science in the 2026/27 academic year.
Up to £6,000Humanities & Social Sciences Alumni Scholarship: Postgraduate Taught
Value: 20% tuition fee discount.
Up to 20% of feesHumanities & Social Sciences Dean's International Excellence Scholarship
The Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences is delighted to offer a number of Deans Excellence scholarships worth £10,000 to international students.
Up to £10,000Humanities & Social Sciences: International Masters Scholarships
The scholarships will be awarded to the value of £6,000 or £8,000.
Humanities & Social Sciences: Undergraduate International Dean's Excellence Scholarship
Value: £5,000 per year of academic study.
Up to £5,000Law Postgraduate Community Bursary
Value: £700
Up to £700Masters Scholarship for Physics International Students
Scholarships of £7,000 are available to new international fee-paying students joining a postgraduate taught masters degree in the Department of Physics in September 2026.
Up to £7,000MBA Part Time - Female Leader of the Future Scholarship
he value of each award will be £6500 - deducted from tuition fees.
Up to £6,500MBA Part time Visionary Scholarship
The value of each award will be £6500 - deducted from tuition fees.
Up to £6,500SBS International Masters Scholarship
Scholarship awards will range from £7,000 to £9,000, depending on the programme and course fee.
Up to £7,000Strathclyde Business School Dean's Excellence Award for International Students
Value: Varies by course fee - Between £10,000 and £12,000
Up to £10,000Strathclyde Business School Dean's Excellence Awards (Undergraduate)
Value: 25% fee reduction per year.
Strathclyde Full Time MBA 60th Anniversary Scholarships
Value: 50% of Full Time MBA tuition fee.
Up to 50% of feesTuition Fee Reduction of 25% for NHS Employees
Up to 25% of tuition fees
Undergraduate Scholarships for Physics International Students
Scholarships of £7,000 per year of study are available to new international students.
Up to £7,000
Career opportunities
A PhD in Architecture opens doors to high-level roles, such as:
- Academic Researcher or Lecturer
- Lead Architect in Innovative Practices
- Urban Policy Consultant
- Heritage and Conservation Specialist
- Sustainable Design Expert
Cost of study
International students are looking at paying £26,250 annually.
Admission
Apply through Strathclyde’s online portal or UCAS. For further assistance, kindly reach out to one of our trained counsellors.
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