Overview

The History degree at University of Plymouth is suitable for people who have a particular research question or topic in mind, and wish to explore this through independent study in order to produce an original contribution to the subject. If you aspire to a research career this is the most appropriate research degree to undertake.

Key facts

You will be guided by a small supervisory team of academic experts under the direction of a Director of Studies. You will be expected to fully engage with skills development and training and to present your research in a range of scholarly contexts.

Your PhD will be assessed via submission of either a written thesis (approximately 80,000 words), or one that combines critical writing with artistic, creative and/or professional practice, and a viva voce (an oral examination).

Programme Structure

It particularly welcome doctoral research in the following areas:

British and Irish social, cultural and political history

Twentieth-century political history of the USA

Modern world history especially Japanese history

Gender history

Material history

Heritage and history

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months
Part-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-10-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

IELTS

6.5

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PTE Academic

65

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TOEFL^® IBT

90

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Duolingo English Test

120

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Plymouth, United Kingdom

Disciplines

History View 138 other PhDs in History in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

IELTS

6.5

Book an IELTS test now!

PTE Academic

65

Schedule a PTE test!

TOEFL^® IBT

90

Schedule TOEFL®

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

Start preparing for IELTS with Free Practice Tests.

Other requirements

General requirements

Masters degree or equivalent from a UK higher education institution in a relevant subject. Students who are making exceptional progress in a ResM programme, may progress directly into our PhD programme without having to complete the masters.

Applicants normally have to supply a research proposal, personal statement, and occasionally evidence that they are prepared to undertake the proposed project. This may include a portfolio, or a sample of critical writing, depending on their area of study.

Other UK or overseas qualifications may also be accepted – with academic reference

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 now

Starting 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 University of Plymouth and/or in United Kingdom, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fee

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International

18750 GBP/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 18750 GBP per year during 24 months.
National

5005 GBP/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 5005 GBP per year during 24 months.

Part-time:

National: £3,305 per year

International: £9,375 per year

Living costs for Plymouth

731 - 1387 GBP /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for History.

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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