The Department of Architecture at HKU invites applications for its MPhil/PhD program, commencing on 1 September 2026. This program offers an independent research degree in architecture, architectural history, landscape architecture, and urbanism, designed for individuals aiming to pursue teaching or advanced research careers. PhD dissertation topics at HKU address a wide range of critical issues related to the built environment in Asia, China, and the broader global context. The multidisciplinary MPhil/PhD curriculum emphasises the intersections of technology, history, and culture, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to tackle the environmental, social, and aesthetic challenges shaping past, present, and future architectural practices. In addition to their coursework and personal research agendas, MPhil and PhD students actively participate in design workshops, international exchanges, and study travel opportunities, fostering a holistic approach to scholarly inquiry.
Application deadline: 1 December 2025.
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact a potential advisor to discuss their research project before applying. Advisors’ research profiles and contact details can be found on the faculty postgraduate programmes website:
https://www.arch.hku.hk/programmes/arch/mphil-and-phd/people/
Basic Information
Admission Requirement: Master’s degree in Architecture or related fields
Program Language: English
Funding Duration: 3 to 4 years
For academic enquiries please contact Program Director Prof. Cole Roskam, roskam@hku.hk
For general enquiries please contact rpgarch@hku.hk
Information on the various PhD funding models offered can be found at: https://gradsch.hku.hk
Admission Requirements
https://www.arch.hku.hk/programmes/arch/mphil-and-phd/admissions/
Summary of admissions steps:
1. Identify potential supervisor(s)
2. Contact the potential supervisor(s) to discuss your proposed research proposal
3. Submit online application at: https://extranet.hku.hk/rola/servlet/CreateUserScreen/loginForm
Applicants must propose 1 potential supervisor or a maximum of 2 potential supervisors with priority when submitting the application.
How to apply: https://gradsch.hku.hk/prospective_students/application/how_to_apply
4. Submit the following supporting documents via the online application system by the deadline:
– Degree certificates
– Transcripts of all tertiary studies with grading scheme
– A personal statement (1 page)
– A research proposal (of no more than 10 pages)
– Two recommendations
– Two writing samples in English (e.g. journal publication, book chapter, essay writing as part of a course assignment in an institution)
– Official score report of English language proficiency tests (if applicable)
5. Shortlisted applicants are invited for interviews by the Admission Committee within a month of the application deadline.