36 Fully Funded PhD Scholarships

Birmingham City University

School of Architecture, Built Environment, Computing and Engineering

BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY

For almost two centuries, Birmingham City University has shaped thousands of lives. We have helped redefine a city, influenced the region, and impacted further afield. From our roots as the Birmingham Government School of Design, we have forged a formidable history.

As an anchor institution, we recognise the enduring importance of research and enterprise activity, which is acknowledged within our newly launched Strategy 2030, setting us on our path to 2030 and Beyond.

Scholarship Call:

Birmingham City University is excited to announce that the new School of Architecture, Built Environment, Computing and Engineering (ABCE) is launching a call for up to 36 PhD students to join the School and carry out a variety of innovative funded doctoral research projects. We are offering these fully funded PhD studentships at home or international fee rates, plus a stipend set in-line with UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) rates, for 36 months. These opportunities are ideal for highly motivated individuals with a strong academic background and a keen interest in pursuing impactful research in the advertised School priority areas. These projects are all scheduled to commence in February 2026.

Successful applicants will benefit from supervision by experienced and research-active colleagues, access to dedicated doctoral training, and state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Birmingham.

What makes this scholarship call unique?

  • Full-time Tuition Fee Scholarship (Home and International) and a UKRI-equivalent stipend for 36-months.
  • With 36 awards available for the 2025/26 cycle, these funded studentships mark a significant investment in future academic leaders.
  • Open to full-time UK, EU, and international applicants embarking on a Computing, Built Environment or Engineering PhD research programme.

BCU for your doctoral studies

BCU is a dynamic, anchor university with a powerful civic mission, dedicated to addressing real-world problems through impactful research and innovation. As one of our postgraduate researchers, you’ll benefit from:

  • Expert supervision: Work closely with international experts operating at the cutting edge of their fields.
  • Practical experience: Access to industry partnerships, civic engagement initiatives, and applied research projects.
  • Comprehensive support: BCU’s Doctoral Research College guides you through every stage—onboarding, progress reviews, training, and the final viva.

Who can apply?

  • These Studentships are open to both Home and International candidates.
  • To apply for a Research Degree within the School of Architecture, Built Environment, Computing and Engineering, you should have, or expect to be awarded, a Master’s Degree in a relevant subject area from a British or overseas University.
  • Exceptional candidates without a Master’s Degree, but holding a first class or upper second class Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant subject area, may be considered.
  • We also welcome enquiries from potential PhD researchers with appropriate levels of professional experience.
  • Each Studentship will also have its own set of essential and desired criteria based on the project content and context.
  • International candidates must also provide a valid English language qualification, such as International English Language Test System (IELTS) or equivalent with an overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.

How to Apply

  • Visit BCU’s Research Degrees and Scholarships page (see link below) for full details on the variety of funded research projects on offer, how to apply, eligibility criteria and admissions requirements.
  • Complete BCU’s Doctoral Studentship Proposal Form for the advertised proposal of your choice, also providing required academic certificates and transcripts, references, and proof of English proficiency.
  • Each Studentship has its own Project ID number, which is listed on the individual advert for the project. Please ensure you include the Project ID number of the studentship you wish to apply for in your application and on your completed Doctoral Studentship Proposal.
  • Incomplete applications, or applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

Complete applications (following all of the required criteria listed on our webpage), must be submitted before the deadline of Midday (UK Time) on Wednesday 17th September 2025.

For full details and application instructions, visit BCU’s official page via the 'Apply' button below.