Geography and environmental science

You can apply for a project advertised by one of our University supervisory teams, propose your own project idea, or apply to one of our doctoral training partnerships.

Advertised PhD research projects

1. Choose your project type

   Decide whether to apply to an advertised research project or create your own proposal.

2. Contact your potential supervisors

   It's a good idea to get in touch with potential supervisors to discuss the specifics of your project. You can find out more about their research interests by visiting their staff profiles.

   It's best to do this well ahead of the application deadline.

3. Gather your supporting documents

   You'll need to send us:

   • your CV with details of your academic record and research interests
   • your academic transcript
   • details of 2 current academic referees, with their institutional email addresses
   • a short statement of your research interests and reasons for choosing the projects you're applying for
   • IELTS or TOEFL certificate if English is not your first language

4. Apply

   When you use the application system, you will need to do the following:

   • For 'programme type' select 'research'.
   • For 'academic year' select the year you want to begin your study.
   • Enter 'geography environmental science' in the search field.
   • Select 'Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences'.
     
     Apply now

Check the specific entry requirements for the project or opportunity you're interested in.

In general, you'll need to have a 2:1 honours undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification. You may also be able to apply if your grade was lower than 2:1, but you'll need to show you've made good process since your degree.

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

Your awarded certificate needs to be dated within the last 2 years.

Advertised projects

Check the specific entry requirements listed on the project you're interested in before you apply.

Our geography and environmental science PhDs are available to study in person or remotely.

A geography PhD can cover both human and physical geography, including areas such as remote sensing and geographic information systems.

Research degrees have a minimum and maximum duration, known as the candidature. Your candidature ends when you submit your thesis. Most candidatures are longer than the minimum period.