The PhD in Design is for students with prior advanced knowledge of and qualifications in a design discipline who want to pursue a rigorous, in-depth study of a specific topic under specialist supervisory guidance.

We welcome prospective students with a strong idea of what they want to research and how they will carry it out. 

A willingness to engage with primary-source material and existing literature in the field are essential attributes in those wishing to undertake this programme.

Your aim will be to make an original and substantial contribution to knowledge in the chosen area of study.

Undertaking an MPhil or PhD in Design offers you the opportunity to become part of a dynamic and varied research community. We have students engaged in a wide range of research projects covering, deepening and extending the disciplines that make up the School of Design.

We encourage you to explore both discipline-specific areas, and interdisciplinary programmes of research. As such, you may be supervised by a range of academic staff from across the School of Design, Edinburgh College of Art (ECA), Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI), and the University of Edinburgh.

If you'd like to study on a postgraduate research programme at Edinburgh College of Art, you must apply through EUCLID, our online application system. You can find out how to do this on the University of Edinburgh website, where you'll also be able to:

• See detailed entrance requirements for each programme on the Degree Finder
• Get information on what to expect after you apply
• Find out about study modes, start dates and fees
• Find out if, and how, you need to submit a portfolio, showreel or research proposal
• Find out where to go for further advice and guidance.

Read the University of Edinburgh's student terms and conditions

Before you apply

Students are assigned two research supervisors, the second of which may be from another discipline within ECA, or from somewhere else within the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences (CAHSS) or wider University. 

Please ensure that at least one member of staff (see below) maintains an active research programme that aligns with the themes of your proposed project.  

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to make contact with the relevant member(s) of staff via email to explain your research interests prior to submitting an application. Please note that we only accept applications and review application materials submitted through the official EUCLID application portal.

After you apply

Once your application has been submitted for consideration, it will be sent to a team of academic reviewers for their attention. They will then make a decision about your application and research topic, and decide whether it is possible to make an offer of a place to study with us. You may be asked to attend a brief online interview but if this is the case, you will be notified in advance.