University of York

What you'll study

This practice-led PhD allows you to develop an original research project that places a substantial practice-based output at the centre of the enquiry. Typical projects integrate archival and interpretive historical methods with practical work such as exhibitions, documentary film, oral-history programmes, digital platforms, performance pieces or curatorial interventions. You will produce a practice-based artefact (or a portfolio of artefacts) together with a critical exegesis that contextualises the practice in relation to historiography, method and theory.

During the doctorate you will work with supervisors to refine research questions, locate primary sources and design methodologies that combine practical and written components. Training typically covers advanced research methods, public engagement, ethical practice, issues in material culture, digital humanities tools, and dissemination strategies for non-academic audiences. You will also take part in generic and discipline-specific professional development offered through the University’s postgraduate training programme.

Typical structure

• Initial period of intensive literature review and method development, leading to a clear plan for both practice and written elements.
• Substantial research and production phase, which may involve archival work, fieldwork, technical production, or collaborations with cultural partners.
• Completion of a practice output and a sustained written thesis (exegesis) that explains and situates the practice within historical research debates.
• Assessment by viva voce and evaluation of the practice component according to agreed supervisory and examining criteria.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a good master’s degree in History or a closely related discipline, or an undergraduate degree with significant research experience. Clear evidence of research potential and a well-developed proposal that explains how practice-based methods will address historical questions are essential.

Practice-based applicants should submit a portfolio or audiovisual samples of recent practice work alongside their proposal. Academic references that comment on research ability and suitability for doctoral study are required. Candidates whose first language is not English will need to meet the University’s English language requirements.

Formal entry is subject to the agreement of appropriate supervisors within the Department of History and the availability of resources to support the practice element of the project.

Career prospects

Graduates of practice-based history doctorates go on to a wide range of careers where deep historical knowledge and practical skills are valued. Typical destinations include academic and research posts; roles in museums, archives and heritage organisations; curatorial and exhibition work; documentary and media production; public history and community engagement projects; cultural policy and advocacy; education and teaching; and positions with digital heritage firms or cultural consultancies.

The combination of advanced research training and demonstrable practice experience is particularly attractive to employers seeking candidates who can communicate complex historical ideas to diverse audiences, manage collaborative projects, and produce high-quality public outputs.

Why study at University of York

The University of York is home to an active Department of History with a strong emphasis on research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. York’s collections and research infrastructure are especially supportive of practice-based work: the Borthwick Institute for Archives, other local and national archives, museums and heritage sites provide rich primary materials and partnership opportunities.

York offers structured doctoral training, access to specialist technical and digital skills workshops, and a supportive supervisory environment with experience in practice-led scholarship. The city’s cultural scene and close links with regional and national public-history organisations make it an ideal location for projects that aim to bridge academic research and public engagement.