Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Anthropology at University of Cambridge

Programme overview

The PhD in Biological Anthropology is an opportunity for original research leading to a thesis within a structured research environment that encourages both independence and collaboration. The PhD is normally obtained after three years of study (five years part-time) on an approved topic within the field of Biological Anthropology, and includes an oral examination on the thesis. The thesis topic is normally proposed by the student and then decided between the student and the supervisor, and assistance is provided on elements of methodology and analysis, as well as with the written presentation.

Faculty: School of the Humanities and Social Sciences | Department: Department of Archaeology | Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 4-7 years part-time | Study mode: full-time | Intake: January 2027, April 2027, October 2027, January 2028, April 2028 | Location: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

A successful thesis will show that the doctoral student can design and carry out investigations, assess and interpret the results obtained, and place the work in the wider perspective of the subject. A PhD thesis in Biological Anthropology must represent a significant contribution to knowledge.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a Masters (Merit). Applicants must have achieved an overall mark of at least 68 in a UK MA or MPhil or the equivalent from a non-UK institution and, where available, a dissertation mark of at least 68 or the equivalent, or possess relevant professional experience, and have an original and feasible research project idea to develop during their PhD. Applicants must contact potential supervisors before applying to discuss project ideas, costs and feasibility, particularly for projects involving fieldwork. English language: IELTS (Academic) 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each element.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,208 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

International applicants: GBP 42,546 a year (2027/28). University Composition Fee (tuition) for 2027 entry; maintenance/living costs excluded. Source

Intake: January 2027, April 2027, October 2027, January 2028, April 2028

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 4-7 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/aaarpdpba/apply

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