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We have 33 Design PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

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Design PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

We have 33 Design PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Are you passionate about design? Do you have a creative mind and a desire to push the boundaries of artistic expression? If so, a PhD in Design could be the perfect next step for you.

What's it like to study a PhD in Design?

Studying a PhD in Design is an exciting and rewarding journey. It allows you to delve deep into your chosen area of design and explore it from a research perspective. Whether your interests lie in graphic design, fashion design, industrial design, or any other design discipline, a PhD in Design gives you the opportunity to contribute new knowledge and insights to the field.

During your PhD, you will work closely with a supervisor who will guide and support you throughout your research. You will conduct extensive literature reviews, engage in critical analysis, and develop your own unique research question. This will involve conducting experiments, creating prototypes, and exploring innovative design solutions.

Entry requirements for a PhD in Design

To pursue a PhD in Design, you will typically need a Master's degree in a relevant field, such as design, fine arts, or visual communication. However, some universities may consider applicants with a Bachelor's degree if they have a strong portfolio and relevant work experience.

In addition to academic qualifications, you will also need to demonstrate a passion for design and a clear research proposal outlining your intended area of study. This proposal should highlight the significance of your research and how it contributes to the existing body of knowledge in the field of design.

PhD in Design funding options

Funding for PhDs in Design may be available from various sources, including governments, universities and charities, business or industry. See our full guides to PhD funding for more information.

PhD in Design careers

A PhD in Design opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue academic careers as professors or researchers, contributing to the development of design theory and practice. Alternatively, you can explore careers in the industry, working as design consultants, creative directors, or design strategists. The skills and knowledge gained during your PhD, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and research expertise, are highly valued in various sectors, including advertising, marketing, and product development.

Embarking on a PhD in Design is not only a chance to deepen your understanding of design but also an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the field. It is a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and intellectual growth that will shape your future career and contribute to the advancement of design as a whole.

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Biodesigning the future of scent experience using microbial organisms

Based at Central Saint Martins, UAL, in collaboration with Haeckels. Project overview. Working with microbial organisms such as bacterial, algae, fungi and yeasts, this project aims to explore how scents of the future can be produced, designed and experienced. Read more
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Examining the impact of Design HOPES’ interventions across NHS Scotland

The AHRC/ UKRI funded Design HOPES Green Transition Ecosystem (GTE) Hub aims to empower novel research to respond to significant green transition challenges in innovative, design-led collaborative ways. Read more

PhD Bursary in Hidden Histories of Making

. Hidden Histories of Making. Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is pleased to offer one part-time fees only bursary for the above PhD opportunity to outstanding applicants seeking to begin a programme of research with AUB in September 2024. Read more

PhD Studentship in Computer Science: Human-Computer Interaction/Interaction Design – Digital technologies for social justice and transformative futures

Award Summary. 100% Home fees covered and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance £18,622 (2023-24 UKRI rate). Overview. Interested in social change? This PhD will explore how design and digital technologies can contribute to social justice endeavours and transformative futures.  . Read more

Research Degrees at UCA

Studying a creative research degree at UCA means joining a vibrant and progressive top ten research community with a wealth of specialist resources for creative research and practice. Read more

PhD in Art, Design and Media

The School of Art and Media at the University of Brighton welcomes students for PhD research study in multiple areas across contemporary fine art, visual communication, screen and media studies, digital media arts and sound, photography, fashion, textiles, design and craft. Read more

PhD in Design, Architecture, Technology and Engineering

Based on the south coast, an hour from London, the University of Brighton has built a reputation on research excellence and a dynamic, diverse and creative student community and the University of Brighton’s research responds directly to the most pressing global challenges, with impact at the heart of our ambitions and success. Read more

Research degrees in the School of Design

Our PhD course will allow you to become an expert in a specialist area and gain high-quality research training in Design. Your PhD can be taken full-time (three years standard, four years maximum) or part-time (five years standard, seven years maximum). Read more

Design for early detection of symptoms of anxiety and depression in university students

Anxiety, depression, and psychological distress can have a severe impact on university student quality of life and academic performance, and recent studies have highlighted the role that the COVID-19 pandemic has played in exacerbating symptoms. Read more

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