Applying for a PhD in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Doing a PhD in Arts, Humanities, or Social Sciences lets you study a topic you care about and learn a lot about people, culture, and society. It is different from science or technology because you usually pick your own research idea. You need to think about what interests you and what new questions you can explore.

In this guide, I’ll explain the PhD application process for a research area in AHSS. I will show you how to choose a research idea, find a supervisor, write a research proposal, and get ready for interviews. I’ll also share some tips on funding and other helpful advice you can use to start your PhD journey with confidence.

Applying for a PhD is a big step, so it’s worth thinking about a few practical things before you start.

Your subject
First, decide what you want to study. Arts and Humanities include subjects like History, Literature, Philosophy, Music, Art, and Theatre. Social Sciences cover areas like Politics, Economics, Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work. Arts and Humanities focus on culture, while Social Sciences are about society.

Your research idea
Your research idea is the heart of your application. Unlike STEM, AHSS students usually come up with their own project. Make sure it’s something you enjoy as you'll be spending the next three to four years on it. It should also be original, even if it’s just a tiny gap in current knowledge. Start brainstorming early; endless cups of tea help.

Where to study
Pick a university that has academics who know your topic. A good match with a supervisor can even help with funding. Think about your own situation too. For example, can you move cities? Can you afford rent and coffee? Setting boundaries now will reduce any headaches later.

Eligibility
Most AHSS PhDs require a Masters degree, usually in the same or a related subject. Your Bachelors degree matters less, though it might affect funding chances if the competition is fierce.

Finding a supervisor
A good supervisor makes a huge difference. Check staff pages, see who’s working on topics you like, and consider their experience. Senior academics are busy but knowledgeable; junior ones have more time but maybe less wisdom. Pick your poison.

Funding

Funding is tricky. Most PhDs aren’t automatically funded. Main options:

• Research Councils – AHRC and ESRC provide the biggest grants for AHSS subject.
• University scholarships – Check what your chosen uni offers.
• Charities and trusts – Small grants, but you can apply to many.
• Self-funding – Doctoral loans or part-time work are options.
• Reapply – Didn’t get funding? You can always try again next year… assuming your bank account survives.

Deadlines
Finally, note all deadlines. Some are early for funding applications. A good rule: try to have most things ready by Christmas. Then you can tweak your proposal over the holidays without panicking.

Applying for a PhD in Arts, Humanities, or Social Sciences usually happens through the university’s online application portal. Each department will list what they need, so check early and try not to leave it to the last minute.

What you’ll need

Most applications ask for some combination of:

• Research proposal
• Cover letter or statement of intent
• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Two references
• Writing sample

You’ll also need a staff member willing to supervise you. You can name them in your application.

What makes a strong application

A strong PhD application shows that your project is doable in three to four years and that you’ve thought carefully about your topic. You don’t have to try to change the world in one go. Ambitious plans in this case are better for novels not PhDs.  

A good application also shows that your university and supervisor are the right fit and that your research will make a contribution. Think about both academic impact and wider public impact.

Social Sciences

If you’re in Social Sciences, your proposal will likely involve data—interviews, surveys, or stats. You’ll need to explain how you’ll collect, store, and use the data, and consider any ethical rules. Also, show how your work connects to existing research.

Arts and Humanities

An Arts and Humanities research proposal may also involve new data, but more often you’ll work with existing sources like archives, libraries, or historical collections. Be clear about where you’ll work and any research trips you plan. Ethical rules still apply if you’re collecting new human data.

Contacting supervisors

Get in touch with potential supervisors early. Many are happy to give feedback on your proposal. They can help you shape your project to fit their expertise and the department’s resources and point out useful reading you may have missed. Just don’t expect an instant reply, they’re busy people.

Applying for funding usually happens alongside your PhD application. Most students with Open Doctoral Awards (DTPs) submit a proposal explaining why their project deserves funding. The university reviews applications first and then sends the strongest ones to the Research Council. You’ll usually find out around March if your proposal is under consideration, and by Easter whether it’s been successful.

If you’re applying for a Collaborative Doctoral Award (CDP), the process is a bit different. The project is already defined, so you don’t need a research proposal. Instead, you write a personal statement showing why you’re the right person for the project. The university decides if you’re suitable.

In all cases, check the university’s website for exact deadlines and any extra documents you might need. And start early as funding committees don’t respond well to last-minute panic emails.

For more details on funding options you can use our PhD funding guide.

Tips from the author

Applying for an AHSS PhD can feel exciting and daunting as with any PhD applications but here are some tips I’ve cooked up to help calm the nerves and get you ready for the journey:

• Talk to potential supervisors early: They can guide your research idea and check if your project fits their expertise.
• Research the archives and sources: Make sure the materials you plan to study are available and accessible before you even start writing.
• Draft your research questions first: AHSS proposals work best with clear, focused questions. This will make a good way to keep you focused on your topic.
• Tailor your proposal to the department: Show how your work fits their strengths and ongoing research.
• Ask for feedback on your proposal: Different academics or peers can spot gaps or unclear ideas. Having that second eye is never a bad shout.

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