Studying for your PhD at UCL Geography
Join UCL Geography for a PhD and become part of a top-ten global department, with tailored support, world-class research, and a thriving postgraduate community.
Choosing a PhD in UCL Geography means joining one of the world’s top ten Geography departments, recognised globally for both teaching and research excellence. From your first enquiry through to graduation, you’ll receive tailored support to help you thrive.
Testimonials
Mikaella Mavrogeni, PhD
Meet Mikaella Mavrogeni, a current PhD student at the UCL Department of Geography
20 Sep 2023
Emily Smith, PhD
Starting as an undergrad, Emily tells us how the quality of teaching and the friends and support she made along the way, convinced her to stay on to her PhD.
11 Oct 2022
Ruth Slatter, PhD
With a focus on historical geography, Rith is writing up her thesis and preparing for a career in higher education.
11 Oct 2022
Why Study Here
At UCL Geography, your PhD experience is shaped by a combination of world-class resources, expert supervision, and a vibrant academic community. Our structured training, access to facilities, and supportive environment help you develop the skills and networks you need to succeed.
- Dedicated weekly PhD training seminar in term two of year one
- Research-oriented seminars within and beyond the Department
- World-leading computing and laboratory facilities
- Access to UCL’s world-leading research environment and facilities
- Access to a vast array of resources and opportunities across London
- Around 90 Postgraduate Research students form a thriving community
- Termly socials, fortnightly virtual coffee mornings, weekly seminars
- Student representation at termly departmental meetings
- Personal desk for full-time students; part-time accommodated as far as possible
- In-department training plus UCL-wide development opportunities
What you can study
MPhil/PhD Geography
Advance research across human and physical geography to address global challenges.
MPhil/PhD Human Geography
Investigate how people, places and power shape our changing world.
MPhil/PhD Geography (Practice-Related)
Explore geography through creative and practice-based research.
90 90 Postgraduate Research students form our thriving PhD community.
How to Apply
Applying for a PhD at UCL Geography starts with developing a clear research idea and connecting with potential supervisors. Our step-by-step process guides you from initial discussions through to submission and assessment, ensuring you have the support and guidance you need at every stage.
- Contact academic staff about your ideas, opportunities, and funding.
Work with your prospective supervisor to refine ideas and discuss funding.
- Submit a formal application via UCL Admissions.
- Geography Office or Graduate Tutor can provide support.
- Two academics will assess your application.
- You may be invited for an in-person or remote interview to discuss your ideas, skills, and learn more about the Department.
Do
Reach out early to potential supervisors
Contact relevant academic staff before applying to discuss your project ideas and see if they can support your research.
Make the most of training and development
Take advantage of UCL’s in-department and university-wide training to build research, teaching, and professional skills.
Don't
Submit an application without guidance
Avoid applying without first speaking to a potential supervisor — they’ll help refine your project and give advice on funding.
Worry about feeling isolated
You’ll join a supportive PhD community with socials, seminars, and regular opportunities to connect with staff and peers.
Start your application journey
The first step is to contact a potential supervisor to discuss your project ideas before making a formal application
- Graduate Admissions: Everything you need to know
- How to apply for a UCL Geography PhD step by step
- UCL Doctoral School: Support for all PhD researchers
- Studentships and Scholarships to help fund your PhD
- PhD Supervision guidance: Find your ideal supervisor
- Research Facilities at UCL Geography: Labs and fieldwork
- UCL Scholarships Finder
- UCL Visiting Research Students
Got questions? Get in touch.
Contact us if you have any questions about studying Geography at UCL.
