PhD Design University of Lincoln

Our webinars, subject masterclasses, question and answer sessions, and student panel talks are a great way to discover what it is like to live and study at the University of Lincoln.

Lincoln School of Design brings together an engaged community of artists and creatives aiming to address applied design research problems in the profession, society, and more widely in the world. These include a design for a changing population, new forms of production, and designing new cultural experiences.

Research students can explore broad areas including the history and theory of design, social design, interior design, and design creativity and practice. Research may be either thesis-based or practice-based.

A structured programme of research skills development is designed to enable students to develop the competencies required for their studies and future career. An experienced supervisory team is available to offer expertise and guidance, supporting students in applying for funding, attending conferences, and publishing work. There may be opportunities for students to contribute to undergraduate teaching at the University, following appropriate training.

How You Study

Research students normally have two internal supervisors with specialist knowledge of their subject areas, and they have regular meetings with them for advice, monitoring and other support. Students are introduced to the relevant research methods through taught units and are encouraged to give presentations at postgraduate seminars, which are held regularly throughout the year.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the vast majority of time is spent on independent study and research. Students will have meetings with academic supervisors, however, the regularity of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of the programme.

Prioritising Face-to-Face Teaching

At the University of Lincoln, we strive to ensure our students’ experience is engaging, supportive, and academically challenging. Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we have adapted to Government guidance to keep our students, staff, and community safe. All remaining Covid-19 legal restrictions in England were lifted in February 2022 under the Government’s Plan for Living with Covid-19, and we have embraced a safe return to in-person teaching on campus. Where appropriate, face-to-face teaching is enhanced by the use of digital tools and technology and may be complemented by online opportunities where these support learning outcomes.

We are fully prepared to adapt our plans if changes in Government guidance make this necessary, and we will endeavour to keep current and prospective students informed.

How You Are Assessed

Assessment is via the submission of a final thesis and, usually, by an accompanying oral examination. Practice-based research assessment is via a body of practice work, an accompanying written commentary on that practice, and an oral examination.

Fees and Funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.

Entry Requirements 2023-24

First or second-class honours degree in a relevant subject.

Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.

Research Areas and Topics

Research students can explore broad areas including history and the theory of design, social design, interior design, and design creativity and practice. Research may be either thesis-based or practice-based.

How to Apply

Enrolment Dates

To support your experience within the postgraduate research community, new students are encouraged to enrol in October, February, or May.

In addition to meeting peers across the University who are starting their research programme at the same time, there is access to a central training programme designed around the first three months of study, and targeted support aligned to each stage of the postgraduate research journey. Alternative enrolment dates may be agreed upon with your supervisor on an individual basis.

Career Opportunities

This programme is designed to prepare students to embark on further study at the doctoral level, as well as for careers in teaching and a wide range of other fields.