The Doctorate by Design from the University of Sheffield, is the first PhD programme in the UK in which you can combine creative practice, with critical analysis in Landscape Architecture.
Using innovative research methods — like film, art, modelling, programming or mixed media — you’ll pursue your unique research question and help advance vital understanding in our profession.
The Doctorate by Design programme creates the space for innovative, inter-disciplinary Landscape Architecture research. You’ll complete a 60,000 word thesis along with design research, using two or three-dimensional mixed media of your choice.
This programme builds upon the Department of Landscape Architecture’s existing PhD programme and creates new opportunities for creative research methods.
You’ll be joining the UK’s largest Landscape Architecture school; be supported by our world renowned academics; and contribute to a vibrant, inter-disciplinary research culture, spanning ecological design, wellbeing, natural resource management and environmental change.
We welcome applications from Landscape Architecture and a range of landscape related fields including Architecture, Urbanism and Fine Art.
A Doctorate by Design can lead to careers in academia, Landscape Architecture, design consultancy and public sector leadership.
With full and part-time routes available, along with flexible start dates, the Doctorate by Design is ideal for those wishing to combine studying with an active professional life, or other commitments.
Specialist training
You will have access to world-class training alongside your doctoral study through the University’s Doctoral Development Programme (DDP) and the Social Science Graduate School.
Training is delivered by specialists in the Faculty from the Sheffield Methods Institute, the department and research centres, and in collaboration with the White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership. Our students also access University wide provision via the Think Ahead scheme.
The Department of Landscape Architecture
The Department of Landscape Architecture is home to the largest Landscape Graduate Research School in the UK; a thriving, interdisciplinary environment where PhD students work both independently and collaboratively to explore the interactions between society, culture, nature and practice.
Our PhD students come to us via a range of funding routes, through the University of Sheffield, as well as UK and international funders.
Potential Supervisors
Click on the profiles below to find out more about the research interests of staff who can offer supervision in the Doctorate by Design.
Dr David Buck
Dr Joseph Claghorn
Andy Clayden
Dr Armina Pilav
Dr James Simpson
University of Sheffield
Renowned for excellence - A world-class University, a unique student experience
A world-top 100 university, we have a global reputation for academic expertise, international outlook and impactful research.
As a research-intensive university, we’re committed to tackling big questions that affect the whole planet. Our research influences policy, changes lives and helps us to understand the world.
At Sheffield, you’re welcomed into a diverse, supportive community of scholars from all over the world. Our reputation attracts some of the leading minds in the world. You will work alongside them, with a strong sense of purpose, in an atmosphere of tolerance, inclusivity and respect.
With world-class facilities and opportunities for research collaboration, we can inspire and nurture you to do research that will change the world around us.
Founded in 1905, the University of Sheffield has grown in reputation and size to become one of the UK’s leading research universities. With almost 29,000 of the brightest students from over 140 countries, learning alongside over 1,200 of the best academics from across the globe, the University is recognised as one of the 50 most international universities in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings).
How to apply
Click here to find out how to apply. In addition to your online application and information about your proposed research topic, please also include an electronic portfolio of creative works. This will be used to assess your visual and creative skills and should be no more than 20 pages, in PDF format.
For queries about your application or creative portfolio, please email Dr David Buck.
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