United KingdomDoctoral studies at the AA combine advanced research with a broader educational agenda to prepare graduates for practice in global academic and professional environments. Current PhD research encompasses architectural theory and history, architectural urbanism, advanced architectural design, the city, emergent technologies and sustainable environmental design in architecture. History and theory research is directed by Mark Cousins and Marina Lathouri. Research on urban and housing issues, policy, strategic thinking and spatial design is directed by Jorge Fiori. Research in emergent technologies in architectural design, including active material systems and urban metabolic design is directed by Michael Weinstock and George Jeronimidis. Research on sustainable environmental design in architecture is led by Simos Yannas and Paula Cadima. ‘City- Architecture’, a collective design research agenda, is directed by Pier Vittorio Aureli and Maria Giudici.
Research groups organised under these streams come together in joint symposia and student-led events. Candidates with an architectural background may apply for the studio-based PhD in architectural design which allows them to combine writing with design research.
PhD studies at the AA are full-time for their entire duration. This starts with a preparatory period during which candidates attend selected courses and seminars while developing their research proposals. Approval of proposals initiates the formal period of PhD study, which has a maximum duration of four years. Typically, some 30 doctoral candidates are enrolled in the programme at any particular time, each guided by two supervisors, one of whom as Director of Studies. During their studies, PhD candidates are expected to produce work worthy of publication in journals and presentation in international conferences. Research travel bursaries are available to support the dissemination of excellent work.
Applications are welcome from graduates in architecture and related disciplines. Applicants should hold a Masters degree or equivalent qualification or professional experience in the area of their proposed research project. Applicants should be prepared to undertake an interview, in person or virtually. Visiting doctoral and post-doctoral scholars from other institutions may apply to join the AA PhD programme or one of the postgraduate Design Studios for study periods of three to six months. Enquiries should be addressed to the AA Admissions Office.
The AA is a Partner Institution and Affiliated Research Centre of the Open University (OU), UK. The OU is the awarding body for research degrees at the AA.
The following documentation should be submitted to AA Graduate School PhD Admissions Coordinator, 34-36 Bedford Square, London WC1B 3ES, UK:
Online Application Form (see www.aaschool.ac.uk/APPLY/ADMISSIONS/postgradApp.php)
A first degree in architecture or related discipline
A Masters degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification or professional experience in the area of the proposed PhD research
Design portfolio if applying for PhD in Architectural Design
Two reference letters (from academic and/or professional referees)
Statement of up to 1500 words on proposed PhD research and how this relates to AA teaching and research programmes.
Evidence of funding to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of PhD study.
Availability to attend an interview at the AA School or online.
For further information contact Dr Simos Yannas, Head of PhD Programme simos@aaschool.ac.uk
Applications to Simone Rogers, PhD Admissions Coordinator Simone.Rogers@aaschool.ac.uk
Entry Qualifications
A first professional degree in architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, urbanism or other related discipline, or upper second class honours degree in the history of art or architecture.
Professional, academic or research experience following applicant’s first degree.
Post-professional Masters degree (MA, MSc or MArch) or equivalent qualifications or professional experience in the area of the proposed PhD research.
Proof of proficiency in spoken and written English: IELTS result of 6.5 or higher or equivalent qualification.
Registration Mode
PhD studies at the AA are full-time for the entire duration. The normal period of full-time study is of three calendar years from the date of registration with the OU up to a maximum of four years of OU registration. The equivalent full-time period for the MPhil is of two years with a maximum of three years.
