Faculty of Arts and Humanities at University of Southampton | About the University Department

Dive deep into your specialism in a faculty where curiosity, creativity and social impact meet. At the University of Southampton’s Faculty of Arts and Humanities, researchers are forging new paths of enquiry to understand the things that make us human. If your passion lies in art and design, literature and language, music, archaeology, history, film or philosophy, you’ll be supported to navigate the challenges of PhD research in our inclusive postgraduate community. With flexible programmes, expert supervision, professional training and development and exceptional facilities, you’ll have everything you need to inquire, create and innovate.

Why study at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities?

Gain your PhD at a faculty with a world-class reputation for research. Most of our departments are ranked top 10 in their field (REF 2021).

Work with researchers at the forefront of their specialism who share your passion.

Discover opportunities for research with real-world societal outcomes through our knowledge exchange and enterprise partnerships.

Take your research beyond disciplinary boundaries through centres such as the Centre for Modern and Contemporary Writing and the Centre for Imperial and Post-Colonial Studies.

Join a network of postgraduate researchers from UK and international backgrounds and build connections around the globe in academia and industry.

350

postgraduate students

Top 10

in the UK for research quality (REF 2021)

Southampton United Kingdom

main campus

Visit website

About the Faculty of Arts and Humanities

At the Faculty of Arts and Humanities we are fascinated by the human experience, exploring our past, how we live, how we communicate and express ourselves – and how this knowledge can shape the future.

Our research community includes archaeology, English, film studies, history, modern languages, linguistics, music and philosophy, and encompasses fine art, design, and fashion and textiles at the Winchester School of Art.

Across these disciplines, our networks and partnerships create opportunities for you to make a real-world impact. The Southampton Institute for Arts and Humanities is just one example; it places culture at the centre of world-changing research, with partnerships including the NHS and National Trust, and projects exploring regeneration, economies, wellbeing and the cultural industries.

You can also cross disciplinary boundaries through centres with a focus on international film research, music education and social justice, public engagement with music and global futures in art, design and media.

At Winchester School of Art, you can get involved in innovative research labs to explore new approaches to social engagement or harness the creative and problem-solving potential of e-textiles, data visualisation, immersive technology, smart service design and more.

Depending on your specialism we’ll support you to pursue text, archival, object, site-specific or practice-led approaches, with access to outstanding facilities such as:

Performance and exhibition spaces
Specialist collections, libraries and archives such as the Ghandi papers
Fully equipped studios and workshops for art, fashion, design and textiles
High-spec equipment for archaeology and digital humanities.

Funded PhD opportunities

Student life at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities

Whoever you are and wherever you’re from, you’ll be welcome in our inclusive and friendly research community.

You’ll find plenty of opportunities for socialising, support and self-development, including regular coffee mornings, subject-specific seminar programmes, ‘work-in-progress’ presentations, and events run by our active postgraduate researchers’ society. Dedicated workspaces and study rooms give you a base to work, connect with like minds and share ideas.

Every year the Doctoral College brings the PhD community together for a University-wide celebration of postgraduate research – a great chance to showcase your work and share successes through a research exhibition, a Three Minute Thesis competition and more. You can also build a professional development programme tailored to your future ambitions, with a choice of more than 400 workshops every year.

We’re committed to creating an inclusive environment that breaks down barriers to postgraduate research, through initiatives like the Race Equality Charter, Athena Swan recognition and Black Futures Scholarships. Networks such as a parents’ and carers’ network and LGBTQ+ groups provide a space for PhD researchers with different interests and priorities, and the University’s comprehensive support services are there for any wellbeing or learning needs you may have.

Depending on your research field, your base will be Southampton or Winchester – two cities rich in culture, heritage and green spaces. Among the safest cities in the UK, both have a mild climate, with coast and countryside in easy reach and good connections to the rest of the UK and Europe.

Frequently asked questions

Can I propose my own research topic?

Yes, we welcome original proposals. You’re encouraged to contact potential supervisors to discuss your ideas and ensure they align with the expertise within the faculty. You’ll find more detail about what to include in your proposal in our research proposal guidelines.

What support will I receive during my PhD?

Our welcoming and friendly Doctoral College is at the heart of our thriving PhD research community. Through the Doctoral College you’ll have access to training, career development, funding advice and wellbeing support. It also coordinates interdisciplinary events and provides access to dedicated study spaces.

How do I apply for a PhD?

Applications are made through our online portal. Before you apply, we recommend you check the eligibility criteria and prepare your documents, such as your CV, personal statement, references, and a research proposal if required. You’ll receive a confirmation email after you’ve submitted your application, and if you’re shortlisted, we’ll be in touch to arrange an interview. Visit our website for more guidance on applying for a research degree.

Can I study part-time or remotely?

If you need to balance your PhD with other commitments, most programmes offer part-time options. Remote study may be possible via the University’s PhD by Distance Learning route, depending on your project and supervision needs. Learn more in our distance learning policy.

What funding or scholarships are available?

The University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries, including the prestigious Presidential Scholarships, Black Futures Scholarships, and Innovation and Social Impact awards. You can find more details on the Doctoral College funding page. We are also one of 50 universities to offer studentships under the new AHRC Doctoral Landscape Award programme – applications will open in 2025 for a 2026 start.