PhD Algebra, Geometry and Topology at University of Edinburgh

Programme overview

PhD in Algebra, Geometry and Topology in the School of Mathematics at Edinburgh, for students who are not part of the AGQ Centre for Doctoral Training. Research is based in the Hodge Institute, covering pure mathematics, algebra, geometry, topology and quantum field theory.

Faculty: College of Science and Engineering | Department: School of Mathematics | Duration: 4 years full-time; 8 years part-time (with or without an internship) | Intake: Multiple start dates | Study mode: full-time | Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research students complete taught courses worth 120 credits in total, 60 of them in Year 1. Research interests include non-commutative ring theory, representation theory, algebraic and symplectic geometry, category theory and algebraic, geometric and arithmetic topology.

Career pathways

Graduates go into academia and research, industry (tech, finance, consultancy, cryptography and security, quantum technologies) and the third sector (public engagement, government, policy, education).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A UK first class honours degree, or its international equivalent, in an appropriate subject; or a UK 2:1 honours degree plus a UK masters degree, or their international equivalents; or relevant qualifications and experience. Applicants provide a personal statement, academic CV, transcripts, degree certificates and two references, plus research topic and published work if applicable. International applicants: IELTS Academic overall 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component (equivalent TOEFL-iBT, C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency, Oxford ELLT and Oxford Test of English Advanced scores also accepted). Application deadline for 2027 entry: 19 December 2026 (applications made through the AGQ CDT; no application fee).

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/7). Scotland and rest of UK fee rate, per year (2026/7 rate; 2027/8 home rate not yet set) Source

International applicants: GBP 30,450 a year (2027/8). International/EU fee rate, per year Source

Intake: Multiple start dates

Duration: 4 years full-time; 8 years part-time (with or without an internship)

Explore more study programmes

STEM