Architecture by Design

Course Overview

The PhD Architecture by Design at The University of Edinburgh is a postgraduate programme designed for postgraduate students passionate about shaping the built environment. Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, this Russell Group university offers a research-led approach to learning, with a 3-year full-time structure. The PhD Architecture by Design programme is intended for graduates who wish to pursue a rigorous, in-depth study of a specific topic where design methods familiar to architectural practice (such as drawing, surveying, modelling) are developed as research methodologies. As part of ESALA's suite of postgraduate programmes, it affords the opportunity for you to pursue design-led research in architecture at the highest level, combining inquiries conducted by design with knowledge gathered and advanced through writing. The programme will support you as you develop an awareness of the methods and... A minimum ielts score of 6.5 is required for admission. Graduates from this programme benefit from strong career prospects, with 83% student satisfaction rating, a median graduate salary of £24,000 within three years, a 89% continuation rate, and 85% of graduates in employment or further study.

What You'll Learn

Tuition Fees & Funding

Register to access Open Days on demand Related degree programmes Other degrees in Architecture and Landscape Architecture Architectural History PhD, MPhil Architecture MScR Architecture PhD, MPhil Cultural Heritage PhD Landscape Architecture PhD, MPhil You may also be interested in Sound Design MScR Updates to this page Updated 19 October 2025 to clarify study options, additional programme costs and portfolio Revised 'Programme details' on 12 December 2025 to add video

Graduate Outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions