Curious about studying PhD Built Environmentat University of Plymouth? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy
Online
Full Time
Oct 2026
2 Year
We welcome applications for doctoral research that deals with various aspects of the built environment, especially those that focus on broad areas of building performance, construction management and architectural engineering. We have a track record in interdisciplinary research projects and working with industry partners, as well as a strong international network.Our expertise encompasses building science, building performance simulation, monitoring, architectural design and decision making, high performance buildings, building quality management, value engineering, defect detection and prevention, in-situ measurement, earth buildings, condition surveys of listed buildings, occupant behaviour, thermography and thermal visualization.This full time doctoral programme is suitable for people who want to develop themselves as a researcher and make a contribution to knowledge in the domain of buildings. Research is typically based on a particular research question or topic that is of deep interest to the applicant, however we are happy to help you develop your ideas.You will be guided by a small supervisory team of academic experts under the direction of a Director of Studies. If you do not already have a masters degree, you may be interested in one of our masters level research degrees (which enables a transfer directly into the PhD programme if you are making excellent progress), or else an MPhil degree. Further details about the University’s research degree awards.As part of your studies you will engage with skills development and research training; you will also be expected to present your research in a range of scholarly contexts such as research seminars, national and international conferences and peer-reviewed academic journals. The actual studies are typically carried out in close interaction with the supervisory team, providing regular feedback along the way. Where possible we encourage joint publications, allowing you to engage with the international scientific community as part of a team. Your PhD will be assessed via submission of either a written thesis (approximately 80,000 words) and a viva voce (an oral examination).Duration:- Full time: 2-4 years, Part time: 4-8 years
This is a research-based module for ResM and Phil/PhD students is designed to develop critical and reflective tools and techniques used in the three fields to support students research skills. The module will provide students with knowledge of current debates relating to approaches, theories, practices, skills and methodologies of research within the fields of Art, Design and Architecture.
This module provides students with research skills training and a critical awareness of different methodological approaches in the arts, humanities, business, education, social sciences, law and associated fields, to enable them to make appropriate choices in their own research. It is designed to complement and support individual research projects carried out by students.
4.2The University of Plymouth's campus is centrally located within Britain's Ocean City, perched on the south western coast...
