PhD Physical Geography at University of Manchester

Programme overview

Specialist doctoral training in physical geography supervised by researchers with very strong reputations for research quality. Top 10 Geography department in the UK (QS World Rankings by Subject 2026). Undertake research on a topic of your choice, supervised by an expert in that field.

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities | Department: School of Environment, Education and Development | Duration: 3 Years [Full-time], 6 Years [Part-time] | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Manchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

A PhD in Physical Geography will allow you to benefit from the supervision of world-leading academics that have very strong reputations for research quality. The University of Manchester is one of the best places in the world to study physical geography, and our department has a global reputation for its research and teaching.

Career pathways

As a postgraduate researcher, you'll have access to a dedicated researcher development training to support your professional development throughout your PhD journey and beyond. Our researcher development programme will enable you to become more aware of your developing researcher identity, equipping you with the skills you need during your PhD and prepare you to integrate into the researcher community.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

- Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent) English language: IELTS test minimum score - 7.0 overall, 7.0 in writing, 6.0 in other sections. Interview: As part of the offer making process applicants will be required to undertake an interview assessment.

Domestic applicants: GBP 6,000 a year (2027/28). PhD (full-time) Source

International applicants: GBP 23,000 a year (2027/28). PhD (full-time) Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 Years [Full-time], 6 Years [Part-time]

Apply through the official page: https://www.humanities.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/how-to-apply/

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