Applied Research Collaborative Studentships (ARCS)
The Applied Research Collaborative Studentships (ARCS) funds doctoral research projects that are developed in collaboration with external organisations across creative, heritage, third and business sectors based in Scotland. The projects are designed and supervised by two higher education institutions (HEIs) and at least one other partner.
ARCS are intended to encourage and develop collaboration between SGSAH’s HEIs and non-HEI organisations and businesses across Scotland. ARCS are supported by the Scottish Funding Council, which meets 50% of the costs of each studentship. The remaining 50% of costs are met by HEIs (in a 25-25 split).
ARCS guidance documentation for 2026 with full information about the application process, including an application template and marking criteria, will be available here from early October 2025. We will also publish an updated timeline for the application process in early October, but it is anticipated that the closing date will be mid February 2026.
You can view a zoom recording of a SGSAH information session on applying for collaborative PhDs from September 2023 by clicking here and entering password Y5cWN1^?