Our partnership with Santo Tomas University

The University of Reading and the University of Santo Tomas partnered in 2017 to develop a pioneering Double PhD Programme in Built Environment/Architecture as part of the TNE initiative by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED Philippines). The programme is jointly funded by the Commission on Higher Education and the British Council.

The Double PhD is a three-year advanced doctorate degree in Architecture, Urban Design and Built Environment and is jointly delivered by the University of Reading and University of Santo Tomas.

The aim of the programme is to train first-class researchers in architecture, design, science and engineering. The programme starts with an intensive four weeks of study at the University of Reading, and is followed by PhD supervision visits and exchanges across the two campuses. The programme is delivered via distance education and can be completed in three years.

The University of Reading and University of Santo Tomas are also collaborating on a Mapping Eco Social Assets (MESA) wellbeing project, which is focused on recording and persevering freely available social assets for society.

Entry requirements

Applications should be submitted in person to the University of Santo Tomas Graduate School Office. 

A general weighted average not lower than 1.35 (92%) or A- in the master’s programme.

Applicants eligible to apply to the programme:

• should be licensed architects who have a master’s degree in the field
• should possess advanced research competencies
• should pass the IELTS exam with a score of band 7.0
• should pass the screening by both the University of Santo Tomas and the University of Reading before admission to the programme.
  
  

• The University of Reading is one of the UK’s top-ranking institutions for Building. We are ranked 3rd for Building in the Complete University Guide 2025 and 5th for Building in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. 
• Our talented and internationally diverse team in the School of the Built Environment are actively involved in research, contributing directly to your supervision.
• You will be part of a supportive and collaborative international community of students, staff, and alumni. You will have regular opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research. 
• Our research activities within the School are grouped into three areas: Organisations, people and technology; Energy and environmental engineering; Urban living. These groups bring colleagues across the School together to participate in a number of activities, which are open to PhD students. 

The international student experience

We’ll help you to thrive in our lively academic environment developed from cross-cultural collaboration and both our students and staff communities are made up of people from across the world. At Reading, we have students from around 180 countries studying with us.

Our team of advisers are available to offer support on issues such as money matters, visa queries, accommodation and even help with defining words which might be unfamiliar to you. You can also benefit from the Reading University International Mentoring Scheme, matching you with a current student mentor at the University.