University of York

What you'll study

This is a traditional research doctorate: you will develop and complete a sustained piece of original historical scholarship under the guidance of a supervisory team. Your work can cover any chronological period or thematic field represented within the Department of History, from medieval to modern history, social and cultural history, political history, and interdisciplinary approaches that engage with archaeology, literary studies, or digital humanities.

• Research project: The central component is an autonomous thesis that makes a substantial and original contribution to knowledge in your chosen field.
• Supervision and training: Regular one-to-one supervision will be provided remotely, supported by online meetings, written feedback and an individual research plan. You will also take part in researcher development training in research methods, historiography, ethics, and professional skills.
• Methods and skills: Typical methodological training covers archival methods, palaeography (where relevant), quantitative and qualitative approaches, source criticism, digital tools for historians (text encoding, GIS, data visualisation), and scholarly communication.
• Progress milestones: You will complete a confirmation of candidature, annual progress reviews, and a final examination including submission of a thesis and an oral viva voce. Distance candidates may be expected to make periodic visits to York for training, supervisory meetings or the viva, depending on the arrangements agreed with supervisors.
• Access to collections: Although primarily remote, the programme is designed to make use of York’s research infrastructure where necessary — including the university library’s electronic resources and specialist archival holdings — with support to access digitised collections and guidance for visiting physical archives such as the Borthwick Institute for Archives if in-person work is required.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification with a substantial research component (for example an MA by research or MRes) or equivalent research experience. Candidates with a strong first degree and significant relevant professional experience may also be considered if they can demonstrate clear research potential.

• Academic qualifications: A UK 2:1 honours degree and a completed Masters with a research element is typical; equivalent international qualifications are acceptable.
• Research proposal: A concise, well-focused research proposal outlining research questions, methodology, sources and a realistic plan for completion is required and will be assessed for feasibility under remote supervision.
• Supervisory fit: Admission depends on identifying an appropriate supervisory team within the Department of History; applicants should contact potential supervisors to discuss suitability before applying.
• English language: If English is not your first language, you will need to meet the university’s English language requirements.
• Practical requirements: Distance students must have reliable internet access and the ability to participate in online seminars and supervision; occasional travel to York may be necessary depending on your project and assessment arrangements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in History from York pursue a wide range of careers. Many continue in academia — securing postdoctoral positions, teaching posts or research fellowships — while others move into roles that value advanced research, analysis and communication skills.

• Academic research and university teaching
• Archives, libraries and museum curation, including specialist roles in collections management and conservation
• Heritage sector and public history, including outreach, interpretation and exhibition work
• Publishing, journalism and writing that require rigorous research and editorial skills
• Policy, research and consultancy roles in the public and third sectors
• Digital humanities and data-driven projects that combine historical expertise with technical skills

Why study at University of York

The University of York’s Department of History has a diverse research culture with expertise across periods and approaches, enabling supervision in a wide range of topics. York supports doctoral researchers with a structured researcher development programme and access to disciplinary and interdisciplinary networks.

• Research support: Access to specialist training, online research resources and a supervisory team experienced in remote supervision.
• Archives and collections: Close links with the Borthwick Institute for Archives and strong digital collections support help candidates access primary sources, whether working remotely or through planned visits.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: Opportunities to work with related centres and departments across the university on collaborative and interdisciplinary projects.
• Flexible study: The distance format allows you to combine doctoral study with professional or personal commitments while benefiting from York’s research environment and doctoral community.