Key information
Duration
- Full-time – 36 months – PhD 3-3.5 years
- Part-time – 60 months – 5-7 years
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting January 2027 – Apply before Oct 2026
- Starting April 2027 – Apply before Jan 2027
- Starting July 2027 – Apply before Apr 2027
- Starting October 2027 – Apply before Jul 2027
Language
English
Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
Cardiff, United Kingdom
Overview
The School of Earth Sciences' postgraduate research degrees are based on independent full-time research work, with an academic supervisor to guide you in discovering new and exciting areas. Cardiff University's facilities and equipment underpin research in all branches of Earth Sciences.
Distinctive features
From the latest analytical techniques to a coastal research vessel, our facilities support research and teaching activities within the School.
These include:
- 3D seismic laboratory – We use high-resolution, industry-sourced seismic data and cutting-edge analytical and interpretive techniques to address a wide ranging of research questions.
- Electron microbeam facility – Our microscope can be used to image objects such as minerals and microfossils at a magnification far exceeding the capabilities of an optical microscope.
- Terrestrial laser scanner – Offering superior measurement capability in adverse atmospheric conditions.
- RV Guiding Light – Our coastal research vessel enables us to better understand marine issues, from sea level rise through coastal erosion and management.
- Palaeoclimate and climate systems facility – Our Palaeoclimate and climate systems facility can offer high precision trace element and stable isotope analyses in a range of natural materials.
Programme Structure
Research themes:
- the composition and dynamic evolution of the Earth's mantle and crust, including its mineral and petroleum resources.
- Earth's surface, including in and under its oceans, where life has evolved and profoundly affected environments over billions of years.
- causes and consequences of changes in the Earth system, in the ocean, atmosphere and on land, from the geological past into the present and future.
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
GPA – Upper Second Class
English requirements
- TOEFL iBT – 90
- PTE Academic – 69
- IELTS – 6.5
Other requirements
General requirements
Graduates in appropriate science subject such as Geology or Environmental Science, with at least a First Class or 2:1 Honours degree, or a master's.
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
International: 50,857 AUD / year (≈ 26,700 GBP / year)
Domestic: 9,535 AUD / year (≈ 5,006 GBP / year)
Part-time tuition fees: £2,503
Living costs
Cardiff, United Kingdom: 1,196-2,030 AUD / month
