Built Environment PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

A PhD in Built Environment is closely related to Architecture, but takes a slightly more technical view of the subject area, incorporating research in Construction and Engineering alongside traditional architectural topics.

What’s it like to do a PhD in Built Environment?

PhDs in Built Environment offer doctoral students the chance to undertake interdisciplinary research in Architecture, Construction and Engineering, exploring the ways in which these subjects inform one another. Possible research topics include:

• Air quality
• Building acoustics
• Building quality management
• Civil and structural engineering
• Construction industry
• Construction law
• Energy efficiency
• Surveying
• Sustainability
• Thermography

The nature of Built Environment as a study area means that there are likely to be many real-world applications resulting from your research, such as the use of concrete as a building material.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for a typical PhD in Built Environment usually involve a Bachelors and a Masters degree in a related subject. You’ll also need to submit a compelling research proposal detailing your study plans. Any professional experience in Built Environment or Architecture that you have will strengthen your application.

PhD in Built Environment funding options

In the UK, PhDs in Built Environment are funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), depending on the focus of your research. This funding will provide a tuition fee waiver and a living cost stipend. You may submit your own research proposal before being considered for funding, or apply for a project that already has funding attached.

It’s also possible to apply for a PhD loan to help with the costs of a doctorate in Built Environment (although this can’t be combined with Research Council funding). Other options for financial support include university scholarships, graduate teaching assistantships and charities.

If you’re considering a part-time PhD in Built Environment, it may also be worth asking your employer if they’re happy to sponsor you.

PhD in Built Environment careers

A PhD in Built Environment prepares you for employment in a range of industrial sectors, from construction and civil engineering to architectural practice and urban consultancy work. It also provides you with a great platform to begin a full-time career in research or university teaching.