University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The PhD is a primarily research-based programme, supervised by staff with expertise across American history, politics, literature and culture. You will develop, refine and execute an original research project leading to a substantial doctoral thesis. Candidates commonly work on topics such as political and diplomatic history, race and ethnicity, migration and transnational connections, cultural and media history, urban and social histories, and the history of law, labour and gender.

Although the emphasis is on independent research, the programme includes structured research training. Training typically covers research methods and historiography, archival skills, oral history, quantitative and qualitative approaches where relevant, and professional skills such as publishing, grant writing and public engagement. Students can also take relevant advanced taught modules from across the Faculty to support their project, subject to approval by supervisors and programme regulations.

Facilities and resources available to doctoral researchers include access to the University’s extensive library collections and digital databases, special collections and archives, and opportunities to collaborate with research centres and interdisciplinary groups with a focus on American studies and transatlantic research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a good honours degree (UK upper-second class or equivalent) and a relevant master’s degree with a strong research component. Exceptional applicants with equivalent professional or research experience may be considered. Your application must include a research proposal that demonstrates the originality and feasibility of the proposed project, academic transcripts, a current CV, and academic references.

International applicants should demonstrate proficiency in academic English through an approved qualification or equivalent evidence. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview with potential supervisors to discuss their proposal and fit with the School’s research expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates of a PhD in American Studies and History pursue a wide range of careers. Many continue in academia and research, taking teaching or postdoctoral positions. Others move into roles in cultural and heritage organisations, archives and libraries, museums, and curatorial work, where historical research skills are highly valued.

Transferable skills developed during the doctorate — advanced research and writing, critical analysis, project management, public communication and digital research methods — are also in demand in publishing, journalism, policy and think tanks, education, non-governmental organisations and the creative industries.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a supportive research environment with experienced supervisors working across American studies and historical fields, and links to interdisciplinary research networks. The School provides structured doctoral training, regular research seminars, and opportunities to present work at conferences and public events.

Nottingham’s library and archival holdings, combined with access to digital resources and regional partnerships, give doctoral students strong foundations for archival and empirical work. The University also offers resources to support career development, funding application advice and opportunities for collaborative and public-facing research.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to identify potential supervisors whose expertise matches their project and to contact them informally to discuss research fit before applying.