Architectural History

DPhil in Architectural History

Course Code | 000055

It is possible to study for a DPhil in Architectural History by part-time research. Admission is usually as a Probationer Research Student (PRS), and the normal period of study is six years. Supervision can be offered in a wide range of topics from the medieval to the modern periods, and the programme encompasses aspects of designed landscapes and interior design.

Supervisors may be drawn from the Department for Continuing Education and from the History Faculty. Anyone wishing to discuss research topics should contact one of the course directors at paul.barnwell@conted.ox.ac.uk or cathy.oakes@conted.ox.ac.uk.

Postgraduate Certificate in Architectural History

Course Code | 000050 

The Postgraduate Certificate provides an introduction to English Architectural History from the middle ages to the present day. It aims to equip students with an understanding of the main styles and themes of Architectural History, and of the development of the historic environment.

Students are also introduced to the basic practical skills associated with analysing and recording buildings.

• Length of programme: One year, part-time
• Core and optional courses: The course consists of four compulsory units:
  • Historical Studies 1: Medieval Landscapes and Buildings
  • Historical Studies 2: Post-Medieval Buildings
  • Site Evaluation and Survey (taught by Oxford Brookes University)
  • Dissertation
• Programme specification

Students have access to the Bodleian Library, its electronic resources, and its dependent libraries. The latter include the library in the Department for Continuing Education, which has significant holdings in Architectural History and related fields.

The library at Oxford Brookes University may also be used. IT facilities, including the Department’s own Learning and Resource Centre, are available.

Information on Academic Staff Profiles

College affiliation is not required for students studying for
the Postgraduate Certificate.

The Certificate is taught in association with conservation courses at Oxford Brookes University. Students from the Oxford Brookes MSc in Historic Conservation are taught as part of the same group. Some teaching is undertaken by staff from Oxford Brookes.

Certificate students who are subsequently accepted onto the Oxford Brookes MSc in Historic Conservation are exempted from units satisfactorily completed as part of the Certificate.

Students who have successfully completed the course have gone on to further study, including reading for research degrees, both at Oxford and elsewhere, in Architectural History and in conservation-related subjects. Others have pursued careers in conservation-related professions.