Overview

A PhD enables you to follow a programme of self-directed, independent study, supported by experienced supervisors who are themselves experts in their area. We may use industry experts to support some projects, and others may be run in full collaboration with an industry partner.

Current interests

Our Built Environment research at Birmingham City University is wide ranging:

Our work in construction plant and machinery had four-star, world leading, impact.
We are developing new approaches to Building Information Modelling (BIM) including applications to heritage buildings.
We have developed ‘serious games’ for public consultation and training in planning and environmental management, which have been used by government, local authorities, schools and other agencies.
We have a world-leading reputation in urban form and post-catastrophe reconstruction.
We are developing new construction materials and techniques such as timber laminates.
We are working on building energy use and management.

Programme Structure

Areas of research in which staff are currently active include:

Digital built environment including BIM (Building Information Management)
Renewable energy, energy management in buildings, customer energy management behaviour
Nano-fluids and heat transfer
Sustainable and innovative materials for construction
Construction waste management
Automation in construction
Water management, urban drainage systems and flood resilience
Real estate – property and asset management, risk
Planning and development law

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months
Part-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-07 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-04-30 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-05-30 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-02-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-30 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-10-30 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Architecture Civil Engineering & Construction Environmental Economics & Policy View 41 other PhDs in Environmental Economics & Policy in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

To apply for our built environment PhD research degree you should have, or expect to be awarded, a Masters degree in a relevant subject area from a British or overseas university.
Exceptional candidates without a Masters degree, but holding a first class or upper second class Bachelors degree in a relevant subject area, may be considered.
We also welcome enquiries from potential PhD researchers with appropriate levels of professional experience.
We find it most effective to work with inquirers to focus their research ideas before a formal application is made.
Alternatively please send us an initial PhD enquiry containing your brief PhD research proposal (1000-2000 words), and/or any questions or queries you may have.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

15120 GBP / year

≈ 15120 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

5006 GBP / year

≈ 5006 GBP / year

Living costs

Birmingham

United Kingdom

765 - 1134 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Built Environment.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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