Overview
Key Features
Our Architecture (Practice-based) programme from Loughborough University is tailored for practitioner architects wishing to explore an original research topic while remaining in practice. Unlike some practice-related PhD models, our programme does not involve the submission of an extended piece of self-reflective commentary by an architect on their previous built work and designs. Instead of this passive approach, we take an active one, which involves:
- an architect creating new, research-led work while in practice
- critical reflection and analysis of this in written and practical form
- presentation and defence of this work via the ‘design critiques’ typical of architectural pedagogy and practice.
This approach reflects the close alignment of theory and practice in LU-ARC, Loughborough's new architecture division and also reflects changes in RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) expectations, whereby practices are encouraged to build upon their design intuitions with original research that facilitates evidence-based design approaches.
The PhD will take the format of a written thesis of 40,000 words, as well as a substantial practical component. The practical component might take the format of contributions to the completion of a building project, hand-drawn or computerised visualisations (plans, elevations, sections, axonometrics, etc), virtual spaces, traditional hand-made models, 3D printed models, structural and material prototypes, mock-ups and installations. It is expected that a semi-public exhibition and discussion of the work should take place towards the end of the period of study. The formal examination, however, will consist of analysis and interrogation of the practical and written components in line with the standard viva-voce regulations and practise, and this will be conducted jointly by an internal academic referee, as well as an appropriately qualified external practitioner.
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Visit programme websiteProgramme Structure
Research :
- Building structures and materials
- Building performance and systems
- Digital fabrication
- Automated and AI design
- Human robot co-creation
Check out the full curriculum
Visit programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Part-time
- 72 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
Each research project has its own deadline. If you apply with your own research project, you can apply anytime.
Language
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Delivered
Disciplines
Architecture View 46 other PhDs in Architecture in United KingdomExplore more key information
Visit programme websiteAcademic requirements
English requirements
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Student insurance
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:
- Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
- Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
- Liability
- Home contents and baggage
- Accidents
- Legal aid
We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
Get your student insurance nowStarting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Loughborough University and/or in United Kingdom, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Other requirements
General requirements
You will need to be a qualified practitioner architect with a minimum of three years of practice experience. Applications will proceed via submission of an outline of the topic and methodology, a digital portfolio of design work, as well an interview.
As the PhD will be situated in practice, several formal commitments will be required from the practice concerned. These include:
- a commitment to allow the candidate to work on their research for a minimum of 500 hours per annum
- a commitment to release the candidate for regular tutorials and crits
- safeguards on the IP (Intellectual Property) of the resulting research if that research is done in collaboration with others in the practice.
You will also need to formally agree with the School on any extra financial contributions that might be required, for example, materials required for manufacture or access to specialist laboratories or computation, and these will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit programme websiteTuition Fee
-
International
27500 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 27500 GBP per year during 72 months. -
National
4849 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 4849 GBP per year during 72 months.
Dependent on start date. Please see website.
Living costs for Loughborough
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Please see our website for a list of research degree funding and scholarships.
Check for any work restrictions
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Scholarships Information
Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Architecture (Practice-based).
Available Scholarships
You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.
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