Architecture, Built Environment & Planning - Research Programmes

Overview

100% of our research environment has been judged as being conducive to producing research of world-leading or internationally excellent quality and enabling outstanding impact in terms of its vitality and sustainability. 100% of our research impacts have made exceptional and very considerable impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. The dynamic research culture within the Belfast School of Architecture and the Built Environment strives to support PhD researchers to ensure a positive and progressive experience for all researchers within the School.



We offer our PhD researchers excellent training support and research facilities to facilitate research of world-leading and internationally excellent quality. The 2021 PRES returned excellent results with an overall PhD researcher satisfaction rate of 88%, making Ulster 2nd in the UK for PhD researcher satisfaction and professional development and resources. PhD researchers within the Belfast School of Architecture and the Built Environment are delighted with the quality of their supervision and the supportive school research environment.

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study. We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.



In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.



English language requirements

In order to be admitted to research study at Ulster, you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as part of your application.

Careers and opportunities

PhD graduates are recognised by employers to hold valuable transferrable skills, as the nature of the degree trains candidates in creativity, critical inquiry, problem solving, negotiation skills, professionalism and confidence.



The most recent Ulster survey of PhD graduates found that 92% had secured employment within the first year since graduation (HESA Destination of Leavers Survey 2015), and while two thirds end up in the Higher Education or Research sectors, the range of skills acquired equips the remainder for employment in a wide range of contexts.