phd urban planning uk

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MPhil/PhD Regional and Urban Planning Studies

• Graduate research
• Department of Geography and Environment
• Application code L8ZR
• Starting 2024
• Home full-time: Open
• Overseas full-time: Open
• Location: Houghton Street, London

This programme offers the chance to undertake a substantial piece of work that is worthy of publication and which makes an original contribution to the social scientific study of urban planning. You will begin on the MPhil, and will need to meet certain requirements to be upgraded to PhD status.

The MPhil/ PhD in Regional and Urban Planning Studies is part of a vibrant, innovative and interdisciplinary graduate training programme that addresses the opportunities, problems, politics and economics of urban and regional planning in cities around the world. Our emphasis is on “understanding the causes of things”, to quote the School’s motto. We do this by employing analytical skills and theoretical insights gained from the social sciences and the fields of planning, architecture, economics and the environment.

Our programme aims to produce top-quality social scientists who are able to engage with the conceptual foundations of urban planning and employ robust and appropriate methods in their research.

As well as taking your time to look through the sections below,  we also encourage you to take a look at our  FAQs , which cover a range of frequently asked questions, including on the application process and funding.

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for mphil/phd regional and urban planning.

The programme is offered in the following alternative formats:

Either  the MPhil/PhD in Regional and Urban Planning

Or  combined with the MSc Regional and Urban Planning Studies progressing onto the MPhil/PhD in Regional Planning (1+3 route)

MPhil/PhD in Regional and Urban Planning

The minimum entry requirement for this programme is a taught master’s degree (or equivalent), with a minimum of 65 per cent average and at least 70 in the dissertation, in a related.

Most students take four years to complete the PhD.

1+3 Route: MSc Regional and Urban Planning Studies (1 year) + MPhil/PhD in Regional Planning

The 1+3 route is suitable for those individuals who do not hold a relevant an ESRC recognised postgraduate research training degree and is aimed at students graduating with an undergraduate degree in planning, urban geography or closely related subject. (See entrance requirements for the  MSc Regional and Urban Planning Studies programme ).

The 1+3 Combined PhD Programme is only available as part of an ESRC Funded pathway.

The 1+3 scheme provides funding for a one year research training MSc programme plus three years in a linked PhD programme. Progression from the master’s onto the PhD programme is dependent upon performance in the master’s programme (Students must score 65 per cent overall and at least 70 in their dissertation to comply with the Department’s usual PhD entry criteria).

Once on the PhD Programme, 1+3 students will follow the same programme structure as ordinary PhD students but adjusted to account for courses already taken on the MSc.

In practice, most students take four years to complete the PhD in addition to the year of study for the relevant MSc.

How to apply

To apply for the 1+3 route, an application must be submitted for the relevant master’s programme, including a research proposal for the PhD aspect of the pathway. Applicants must also indicate their wish to be considered for the 1+3 pathway and associated funding within their personal statement. If you apply for the PhD programme directly, will not be considered for the 1+3 pathway.

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet our minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission. 

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Assessing your application

We welcome applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of members of staff at the School, and we recommend that you investigate  staff research interests  before applying.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your:

- academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications) - statement of academic purpose - references - CV - outline research proposal - sample of written work.

 See further information on supporting documents

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE, but we recommend that you do.  See our English language requirements .

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 23 May 2024 . However, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must have submitted your application and all supporting documents by the funding deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details.

Fees and funding

Every research student is charged a fee in line with the fee structure for their programme. The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover  living costs  or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for MPhil/PhD Regional and Urban Planning

Home students: £4,829 for the first year (provisional) Overseas students: £22,632 for the first year

The fee is likely to rise over subsequent years of the programme. The School charges home research students in line with the level of fee that the Research Councils recommend. The fees for overseas students are likely to rise in line with the assumed percentage increase in pay costs (ie, 4 per cent per annum).

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

Fee status​

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Scholarships, studentships and other funding

The School recognises that the  cost of living in London  may be higher than in your home town or country, and we provide generous scholarships each year to home and overseas students.

This programme is eligible for  LSE PhD Studentships , and  Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funding . Selection for the PhD Studentships and ESRC funding is based on receipt of an application for a place – including all ancillary documents, before the funding deadline.  

Funding deadline for LSE PhD Studentships and ESRC funding: 15 January 2024

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.  Find out more about financial support.

External funding 

There may be other funding opportunities available through other organisations or governments and we recommend you investigate these options as well. 

Further information

Fees and funding opportunities

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page.

Programme structure and courses

In addition to progressing with your research, you are expected to take the courses listed below. You may take other courses to those listed but must discuss this with your supervisor.

(* denotes a half unit)

Training courses Compulsory (not examined) Planning Practice and Research or Staff/Research Students Seminar Provides background sessions for MPhil/PhD students in their first year of study. It also provides the forum in which first year full-time and second year part-time MPhil/PhD students must present their work in advance of submitting their major review documents.

Compulsory (examined) Courses to the value of one unit from the list of options on the relevant MSc degrees Relevant advanced research method courses to the value of one unit from the following: Applied Quantitative Methods* Techniques of Spatial Economic Analysis* Fundamentals of Social Science Research Design* Qualitative Research Methods* Doing Ethnography* Non-Traditional Data: New Dimensions in Qualitative Research* Special Topics in Qualitative Research : Introspection-based Methods in Social Research* Survey Methodology* Causal Inference for Observational and Experimental Studies* Special Topics in Quantitative Analysis: Quantitative Text Analysis*

Transferable skills courses Compulsory (not examined) Research Project Seminar Presentations by research students of aspects of their own research, stressing problems of theory, methodology and techniques.

Second year

Training courses

Compulsory (not examined) Staff / Research Students Seminars Provides background sessions for MPhil/PhD students in their first year of study. It also provides the forum in which first year full-time and second year part-time MPhil/PhD students must present their work in advance of submitting their major review documents.  

Transferable skills courses Compulsory (not examined) Research Project Seminar Presentations by research students of aspects of their own research, stressing problems of theory, methodology and techniques.  

Compulsory (not examined) Staff / Research Students Seminars Provides background sessions for MPhil/PhD students in their first year of study. It also provides the forum in which first year full-time and second year part-time MPhil/PhD students must present their work in advance of submitting their major review documents. 

Transferable skills courses Compulsory (not examined) Research Project Seminar Presentations by research students of aspects of their own research, stressing problems of theory, methodology and techniques. 

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page. 

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s   Calendar , or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the  updated graduate course and programme information page.

Supervision, progression and assessment

Supervision.

You will be assigned two supervisors who are specialists in your chosen research field, though not necessarily in your topic. Your supervisors will guide you through your studies.

Progression and assessment

Once on the MPhil/PhD programme you will go through a First Year Progress Review, taking place in the Spring Term of your first year.

For the First Year Progress Review, you must submit a written progress report containing an extensive and updated research proposal (typically including an introduction to the topic and motivation for the research; aims and objectives/research questions; contribution to knowledge; summary of methods to be used; and outline of the work to be done) and either a comprehensive literature review or a substantive draft of a chapter/paper as evidence of progress made during the year. Normally, there will be a progress review meeting between you and your supervisors to discuss the written material presented. The work has to reach an acceptable standard to enable you to progress. There is provision for a second Supplementary Review in cases where there are doubts as to whether progress has been sufficient to allow entry to the second year. Progression to the second year of the MPhil/PhD programme is also dependent on you having passed all required examinations and obtained at least one merit, and having presented your work satisfactorily in the research project seminar.

All research students are initially registered for an MPhil and have to be upgraded to PhD status. The upgrade from MPhil to PhD usually occurs during the second year of full-time registration on the programme. The exact timing depends on your progress. You are required to submit a formal written upgrade report consisting of an extensive revised research proposal, two substantive draft papers/chapters, of which one can be a literature review, and a detailed plan for completion. You will be asked to discuss your research paper/thesis outline during an Upgrade Meeting in front of an Upgrading Committee normally formed by your supervisors and a third member of staff with relevant expertise. The material is evaluated by the Upgrading Committee, who will recommend transferral to PhD registration if your work is judged to be of sufficient quality and quantity. The upgrade is also dependent on you having completed all required training courses and having made a satisfactory research presentation in the research project seminar.

In addition to these formal arrangements, each year during the Spring Term and throughout the course of your studies, you and your supervisors have to complete a yearly Progress Report Form, detailing progress made, problems arising and plan/timeline for completion. The forms are sent to the Director of Post-Graduate Studies for approval before you are able to re-register for the following session. If perceived lack of progress is identified, it can trigger a more formal annual review of progress in which you will be asked to produce specific written documents to be evaluated by a review panel.

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Wellbeing Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme  and arranging  exam adjustments.  They run groups and workshops.  

IT help  – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre  – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Quick Careers Facts for the Department of Geography & Environment

Median salary of our PG students 15 months after graduating: £35,000          

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

• Government, Public Sector and Policy   
• Financial and Professional Services              
• Education, Teaching and Research            
• Real Estate, Environment and Energy 
• Other Professional, Scientific and Technical Activities

The data was collected as part of the Graduate Outcomes survey, which is administered by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Graduates from 2020-21 were the fourth group to be asked to respond to Graduate Outcomes. Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and who were working in full-time employment.

We prepare students for a variety of careers in academia, international organisations (eg the World Bank, OECD, UNEP, European Commission), urban planning, community development, NGOs and national and local governmental institutions.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Enrico Orru

My PhD allowed me to achieve a more comprehensive and critical understanding of the main issues underlying my field of work and to gain strong methodological and analytical skills. After my PhD I've published in journals such as Papers in Regional Science and The Annals of Regional Science . I've worked for the President of the Italian region Sardinia, by providing advice and support in education, labour markets, innovation and regional economic development. Since 2015 I have been working as a research consultant for Eurofound (European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions).

Sabina Uffer

My PhD focused on the effects of a changing housing strategy on Berlin's urban development. During my research, I worked at LSE Cities on the project Resilient Urban Form and Governance, conducting comparative research on residential and commercial real estate in Hong Kong, Singapore, New York, Paris, London, and Berlin; and I taught research methodology in social science.

Now, I'm head of research for the Cities team at BuroHappold, undertaking projects at the intersection of urban development and infrastructure planning with an emphasis on housing, transportation, and waste. My expertise lies in developing and executing research projects and policy analysis around national and local urban issues in the US, the UK, Germany, and Switzerland. 

Support for your career

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the  support available to students through LSE Careers .

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

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Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

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Register your interest

Related programmes, mphil/phd human geography and urban studies.

Code(s) L8ZG

MPhil/PhD Economic Geography

Code(s) L7ZQ

MSc Regional and Urban Planning Studies

Code(s) L8U4

MSc Geographic Data Science

Code(s) F9UZ

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DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development

• Entry requirements
• Funding and costs

College preference

• How to apply

About the course

The Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Sustainable Urban Development is a part-time doctoral programme that provides outstanding students an opportunity to pursue in-depth and rigorous research about the pressing challenges of urban sustainability and the processes of environmental, economic, and social development in urban environments around the world. 

Students admitted to the programme are usually motivated to undertake detailed research in preparation for an academic career and other research-intensive occupations; to have a substantial impact on future policy-making processes; or to pursue and/or advance their professional career at organisations and institutions operating in the field of sustainable urban development. The course provides support and an intellectual environment by leading scholars in the field to pursue your own independent research.

Pattern of teaching and learning

This is a part-time DPhil programme, taken over a minimum of four years and a maximum of eight years. You are required to have a good general knowledge of the field within which research falls, and of the methods appropriate to the study of this field. Throughout the period of study, you will be part of a thriving international graduate community of students engaged with sustainable urban development, including students on the part-time MSc in Sustainable Urban Development . 

Students are expected to attend the programme’s two doctoral training weeks each academic year (usually held in October and June), and to contribute to additional online research and reading seminars. Students should meet regularly with their supervisor during their doctoral research – usually once or twice a term - but also will be motivated and capable of maintaining consistent independent and self-directed studies throughout the year.

As a part-time student you will be required to attend course activities and related obligations in Oxford for a minimum of 30 days each year.

There will be flexibility in the dates of attendance, which will be determined by mutual agreement with your supervisor. You will have the opportunity to tailor your part-time study and pattern of in-person attendance in liaison with your supervisor. It is expected that you will join all online course activities during your period of study.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department for Continuing Education and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside the Department for Continuing Education.

Students admitted to this degree will conduct their own research under the guidance of a University supervisor, who will advise on all aspects of training, development and academic progress. In being admitted to the degree you must be prepared to work independently a good deal, and you will need considerable personal motivation.

In the case of students admitted to the DPhil who require specific help to adjust to an academic programme or to a new range of skills, the supervisor will work with them to ensure that they have additional support.

Students on the DPhil are required to attend a minimum of 30 days of university-based work each year for the duration of your studies, usually that involves meeting their supervisor once a term.

Students  will be admitted initially as a Probationary Research Student (PRS), in line with University regulations on doctorates. During the probationary period, you will develop and begin work on the thesis topic. You will develop research skills through a range of training and skills development primarily offered via the Department for Continuing Education Graduate School, as well as across the University.

Students must apply for a Transfer of Status from PRS to DPhil status between the sixth and the eighth academic term after admission, each academic year at Oxford having three terms. This involves the submission of a piece of written work that is examined by two assessors, neither of whom will be your supervisors. This process is to ensure that your work is of potential DPhil quality and that the methodology of the research is appropriate and feasible. Upon successful completion of the Transfer of Status, you would usually undertake a period of primary fieldwork/data collection over one to two years.

You will also be required to apply for a Confirmation of Status as DPhil sometime between the twelfth and eighteenth term after admission. This will also involve the submission of a piece of written work that is assessed by two assessors, neither of whom will be your supervisors. The Confirmation of Status assessment is different to the Transfer of Status assessment as the assessors will be focusing on how the research is progressing, the quality of the draft chapters/papers, and on the plan for completion. The assessors will be looking to ensure that you are making the appropriate amount of progress in the development of your thesis, so that thesis submission will be achieved within the time limit.

You will be expected to submit a substantive academic thesis of around 100,000 words after the eighteenth or, at most, twenty-fourth term from the date of admission. To be successfully awarded a DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development you will need to defend your thesis orally (viva voce) in front of two appointed examiners.

Graduate destinations

It is expected that students will already be in employment, working within some area related to urban development. The DPhil may enhance professional practice, career prospects and help secure promotions and other opportunities.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2024-25

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• a master's degree with distinction overall, or a distinction grade on the dissertation as a minimum, in a discipline relevant to sustainable urban development;  and
• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any discipline.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA normally sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

• As this is a part-time DPhil, it is anticipated (although not required) that many applicants will have professional experience in a field relevant to sustainable urban development.
• No publications are expected or required. 

Further guidance

• It is essential that applications be submitted as early as possible and to ensure that all required materials are submitted by the advertised deadlines.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University's  higher level . If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are normally held as part of the admissions process for the candidates who meet the admissions criteria and present a promising research proposal.

The department endeavours to hold interviews within six weeks of application deadline.

Interviews may be held via Microsoft Teams, at the discretion of the Programme Director, when travelling to Oxford is difficult or impossible for the candidate within the interview period. The interview will normally last around 30-45 minutes and will be conducted by a minimum of two assessors from the Admissions Panel. Applicants will be asked to discuss the key aims of their research proposal succinctly, explaining the relevance of the research question in the context of existing knowledge and outlining the rationale for the research methods proposed.

The interview will seek to determine whether the applicant:

• recognises the academic rigour required, and has the intellectual capacity and on-going capacity to maintain independent and proactive independent research study to complete a part-time DPhil;
• shows evidence of possessing research methods skills on which to build on in order to conduct the proposed research project;
• shows a good understanding of the relevant debates underpinning the proposed area of study; and
• has independently assessed which academic(s) would be a relevant doctoral supervisor.

How your application is assessed

Your application will be assessed purely on your proven and potential academic excellence and other entry requirements described under that heading.

References  and  supporting documents  submitted as part of your application, and your performance at interview (if interviews are held) will be considered as part of the assessment process. Whether or not you have secured funding will not be taken into consideration when your application is assessed.

An overview of the shortlisting and selection process is provided below. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide  more information about how applications are assessed . 

Shortlisting and selection

Students are considered for shortlisting and selected for admission without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation, as well as other relevant circumstances including parental or caring responsibilities or social background. However, please note the following:

• socio-economic information may be taken into account in the selection of applicants and award of scholarships for courses that are part of  the University’s pilot selection procedure  and for  scholarships aimed at under-represented groups ;
• country of ordinary residence may be taken into account in the awarding of certain scholarships; and
• protected characteristics may be taken into account during shortlisting for interview or the award of scholarships where the University has approved a positive action case under the Equality Act 2010.

Processing your data for shortlisting and selection

Information about  processing special category data for the purposes of positive action  and  using your data to assess your eligibility for funding , can be found in our Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy.

Admissions panels and assessors

All recommendations to admit a student involve the judgement of at least two members of the academic staff with relevant experience and expertise, and must also be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies or Admissions Committee (or equivalent within the department).

Admissions panels or committees will always include at least one member of academic staff who has undertaken appropriate training.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the  About  section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

The  Rewley House Continuing Education Library , one of the Bodleian Libraries, is situated in Rewley House. The department aims to support the wide variety of subjects covered by departmental courses at many academic levels. The department also has a collection of around 73,000 books together with periodicals. PCs in the library give access to the internet and the full range of electronic resources subscribed to by the University of Oxford. Wifi is also available. The Jessop Reading Room adjoining the library is available for study. You will have access to the Central Bodleian and other Bodleian Libraries.

The Graduate School provides a stimulating and enriching learning and research environment for the department's graduate students, fostering intellectual and social interaction between graduates of different disciplines and professions from the UK and around the globe. The Graduate School will help you make the most of the wealth of resources and opportunities available, paying particular regard to the support and guidance needed if you are following a part-time graduate programme. The department’s graduate community comprises over 700 members following taught programmes and more than 80 undertaking doctoral research.

The department provides various  IT facilities , including the Student Computing Facility which provides individual PCs for your use. Many of the department's courses are delivered through blended learning or have a website to support face-to-face study. In most cases, online support is delivered through a virtual learning environment. 

Depending on the programme you are taking with the department, you may require  accommodation  at some point in your student career. Rewley House is ideally located in central Oxford; the city's historic sites, colleges, museums, shops and restaurants are only a few minutes’ walk away. The department has 35 en-suite study bedrooms, all with high quality amenities, including internet access.

The Rewley House dining room has seating for up to 132 people. A full meal service is available daily. The department operates a Common Room with bar for students. 

Department for Continuing Education

The need for new learning opportunities throughout life is now recognised throughout society. An intensive, initial period of higher education is not always enough in times of rapid social, economic and technological change. The Department for Continuing Education is known worldwide as a leading provider of extended learning for professional and personal development.

The department provides high-quality, flexible, part-time graduate education, tailored for adults. Students can undertake graduate-level certificates, diplomas and taught master’s degrees in a wide range of subjects. Increasing numbers of courses are delivered in mixed mode, combining intensive periods of residence in Oxford with tutored online study.

The department recruits adult students of all ages on a regional, national and international level. Many courses are offered jointly with other academic departments around the University. Courses are offered in the following areas:

• Mathematical, physical and life sciences
• Medical and health sciences
• Social sciences .

All postgraduate students on the department's courses are members of its Graduate School. The Graduate School aims to provide a stimulating and enriching environment for learning and research. It also fosters intellectual and social interaction between students coming from different disciplines and professions. Interdisciplinary research seminars, training opportunities and other events are offered by the Graduate School in support of this goal.

All masters' and DPhil applicants are considered for Clarendon Scholarships . The department is committed to seeking scholarship support for other students wherever possible.

View all courses   View taught courses View research courses

The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25. You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships , if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit our dedicated Funding pages, which contain information about how to apply for Oxford scholarships requiring an additional application, details of external funding, loan schemes and other funding sources.

Please ensure that you visit individual college websites for details of any college-specific funding opportunities using the links provided on our college pages or below:

Please note that not all the colleges listed above may accept students on this course. For details of those which do, please refer to the College preference section of this page.

Further information about funding opportunities for this course can be found on the department's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2024-25

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Continuation charges

Following the period of fee liability , you may also be required to pay a University continuation charge and a college continuation charge. The University and college continuation charges are shown on the Continuation charges page.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

Please note that you are required to attend in Oxford for a minimum of 30 days each year, and you may incur additional travel and accommodation expenses for this. Also, depending on your choice of research topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur further additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the range of likely living costs for full-time study is between c. £1,345 and £1,955 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on our living costs page. The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. When planning your finances for any future years of study in Oxford beyond 2024-25, it is suggested that you allow for potential increases in living expenses of around 5% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. UK inflationary increases will be kept under review and this page updated.

If you are studying part-time your living costs may vary depending on your personal circumstances but you must still ensure that you will have sufficient funding to meet these costs for the duration of your course.

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . For some courses, the department may have provided some additional advice below to help you decide.

The following colleges accept students on the DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development:

• Blackfriars
• Campion Hall
• Harris Manchester College
• Kellogg College
• Linacre College
• Regent's Park College
• St Catherine's College
• Wycliffe Hall

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines and when to apply  in our Application Guide.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable per course application. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Readmission for current Oxford graduate taught students

If you're currently studying for an Oxford graduate taught course and apply to this course with no break in your studies, you may be eligible to apply to this course as a readmission applicant. The application fee will be waived for an eligible application of this type. Check whether you're eligible to apply for readmission .

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

You do not need to make contact with the department before you apply but you are encouraged to visit the relevant departmental webpages to read any further information about your chosen course.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents .

For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. You should not upload a separate document. If a separate CV/résumé is uploaded, it will be removed from your application .

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Proposed field and title of research project

Under the 'Field and title of research project' please enter your proposed field or area of research if this is known. If the department has advertised a specific research project that you would like to be considered for, please enter the project title here instead.

You should not use this field to type out a full research proposal. You will be able to upload your research supporting materials separately if they are required (as described below).

Proposed supervisor

If known, under 'Proposed supervisor name' enter the name of the academic(s) who you would like to supervise your research. Otherwise, leave this field blank.

Referees: Three overall, of which at least two must be academic

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

Whilst it is recommended that all references be from experienced scholars and teachers of graduate students, one professional reference is acceptable.

Your references will support your intellectual ability, academic achievement, and personal motivation.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

Research proposal: A maximum of 3,000 words

You should provide a succinct overview of the research project you plan to undertake for your DPhil, written in English.

A suggested structure for your research proposal would include:

• an introduction stating your research question as succinctly as possible and a justification for why this is a significant and interesting question to address;
• a literature review providing a brief overview of the existing literature, both theoretical and topic specific, stating how your research fits within that literature, and showing the contribution your research will make to existing knowledge;
• a research methodology outlining how you will answer the research question, which should make reference to overall methodological approach, case selection (where a case is used), data to be collected, and methods of data collection and analysis;
• a schedule of work outlining a preliminary timeline leading to the completion of the research project; and
• a bibliography of the works cited in the research proposal.

The bibliography and any footnotes should not be included in your word count.

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

The quality of your research proposal is key in assessing your academic ability to undertake doctoral study. The proposal will be assessed for:

• coherence and originality
• evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study
• the ability to present a reasoned case
• the feasibility of successfully completing the project in the time available for the course
• preliminary knowledge of research techniques
• capacity for sustained and intense work.

It will be normal for your ideas subsequently to change in some ways as you investigate the evidence and develop your project. You should nevertheless make the best effort you can to demonstrate the extent of your research question, sources and methods at this moment.

Written work: One essay or other piece of written work, a maximum of 2,000 words

Your written work can be either an essay, a chapter of a thesis, a published scholarly paper, or work written specifically to support your application. Extracts from longer pieces of work are acceptable, but should not come from the same piece of work; and should be prefaced by a note putting it in context. It is not necessary for this piece of written work to relate closely to the chosen area of study.

Your work should be written in English and the word count does not need to include any bibliography or brief footnotes. Please note that multi-authored works are not acceptable.

This will be assessed for:

• a comprehensive understanding of the subject area
• the ability to construct and defend an argument
• powers of analysis
• powers of expression
• familiarity with the literature on the subject area.

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice . You'll find the answers to most common queries in our FAQs.

Application Guide   Apply

ADMISSION STATUS

Closed to applications for entry in 2024-25

Register to be notified via email when the next application cycle opens (for entry in 2025-26)

12:00 midday UK time on:

Friday 19 January 2024 Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships

Friday 1 March 2024 Applications may remain open after this deadline if places are still available - see below

A later deadline shown under 'Admission status' If places are still available,  applications may be accepted after 1 March . The 'Admissions status' (above) will provide notice of any later deadline.

*Three-year average (applications for entry in 2021-22 to 2023-24)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered by the Department for Continuing Education

• Course page on the department's website
• Funding information from the department
• Academic staff
• Departmental research
• Continuing Education Graduate School
• Postgraduate applicant privacy policy

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ [email protected] ☎ +44 (0)1865 286948

Application-process enquiries

See the application guide

Other courses to consider

You may also wish to consider applying to other courses that are similar or related to this course:

View related courses

Visa eligibility for part-time study

We are unable to sponsor student visas for part-time study on this course. Part-time students may be able to attend on a visitor visa for short blocks of time only (and leave after each visit) and will need to remain based outside the UK.

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

Discover more about this subject area

PhD Planning and Environmental Management / Programme details

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

Programme description

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PhD Planning and Environmental Management provides a vibrant and nurturing research environment for those who are interested in pursuing research in:

• urban and regional planning;
• future cities and data analysis;
• environmental planning and management;
• environmental impact assessment;
• green infrastructure, urban design and regeneration;
• housing and property development.

Our planning, property and environmental management research focuses primarily around the making of future cities - embracing issues such as spatial analysis, urban governance and sustainability.

We aspire to create better cities by critically analysing and helping shape better policies for promoting equitable and sustainable cities for future generations.

Our research focuses on the UK, Europe and other international arenas such as China and Latin America.

Staff members and research students are also active in engaging with the Manchester Urban Institute , particularly via the Spatial Policy and Analysis Laboratory and the Global Urbanism Research Group .

Postgraduate research students are regarded as an integral part of our research culture, and we recruit high-calibre students from all over the world to join our diverse, multidisciplinary, and international team.

Special features

Manchester is a city where planning has been taught and researched for more than 50 years, and urban development and environmental impacts are right on your doorstep.

We have one of the longest established and largest professionally recognised planning departments in the UK.

Our research addresses the urgent challenges that cities face.

Over recent years we have broadened our work beyond planning and environmental management, towards the themes of real estate and urban design.

Planning, Property and Environmental Management is part of the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED), a unique interdisciplinary collaboration between the disciplines of Architecture, Education, Geography, International Development, and Planning, Property and Environmental Management.

What unites us is a shared commitment to highlight and address the uneven relationships between societies, economies and the environment.

We want to understand better the world in which we live, and to offer solutions to the problems within it.

We acknowledge that a complex and interconnected world presents many challenges for analysts, but researchers in SEED are pioneering new evidence, measures, concepts and theories in order to address these challenges in practice.

SEED's world-leading research is rooted in everyday life but international in relevance and scope, addressing social, economic and environmental concerns across the globe.

Our PhD and professional doctorate research community, grouped around a range of dynamic centres and themes, is central to the SEED research agenda across all our disciplines.

Additional programme information

We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

All appointments are made on merit.

The University of Manchester and our external partners are fully committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Teaching and learning

We provide excellent doctoral research training on research methodology and substantive content.

Based on an individual skills audit, you may take course units on planning theory, research design process, and quantitative and qualitative methodologies, together with course units that support your specific research specialism.

Our students are proactive in an interdisciplinary forum where PhD students share their work and hosting their own PhD seminar series as well as participating in the department's own academic seminars.

PhD students also can work as Teaching Assistants, following a training session accredited by the Higher Education Academy.

When you become a postgraduate researcher, you'll join a diverse and vibrant community of doctoral students from nearly 100 different countries, all studying within the Faculty of Humanities.

You'll be assigned to a specific research grouping that complements your research interests and have access to a variety of interdisciplinary research institutes.

Our working environments are often spacious and open plan, giving you plenty of opportunities to communicate with colleagues and staff within the School, and you will have your own desk space as well as access to our fantastic range of libraries on campus.

All our academic supervisors are research active and will support you to work on challenging research problems and develop rigorous, creative and original research.

You can expect to meet with your supervisor at least once a month to discuss progress on your project.

You will have access to a large and diverse community of internationally recognised academic experts offering an environment that will stimulate intellectual debate and development. We provide additional financial support for several activities related to your PhD, including:

• presenting at international conferences;
• attending workshops that provide relevant professional opportunities;
• conducting fieldwork in the UK and overseas.

What our students say

Discover what it's really like to conduct postgraduate research at The University of Manchester on our student spotlights page.

You can develop your practical skills in our project studio, model-making workshop, and computer suites with specialist design and spatial analysis software.

For more information, see Facilities

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service.

For more information, email  [email protected]

Level: Postgraduate research

Duration: 4-8 years part-time

Closed to applications for entry in 2024.

Applications for 2025 entry will open in September 2024. 

To be notified when applications open,  please register your interest .

Questions? Email: [email protected]

DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development

Course details.

The Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Sustainable Urban Development is a part-time doctoral programme that provides outstanding students an opportunity to pursue in-depth and rigorous research about the pressing challenges of urban sustainability and the processes of environmental, economic, and social development in urban environments around the world. 

Students admitted to the programme are usually motivated to undertake detailed research in preparation for an academic career and other research-intensive occupations; to have a substantial impact on future policy-making processes; or to pursue and/or advance their professional career at organisations and institutions operating in the field of sustainable urban development. The course provides support and an intellectual environment by leading scholars in the field to pursue your own independent research.

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• a master's degree with distinction overall, or a distinction grade on the dissertation as a minimum, in a discipline relevant to sustainable urban development;  and
• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any discipline.

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department for Continuing Education and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside the Department for Continuing Education.

Online open event

Following on from our recent  online info session ,  this open event provides an opportunity for those considering applying to really get to know the course, teaching staff and potential supervisors.

This event is now full. If you would like to be notified of other future events,  please sign up to our emails .

Quick links

Who should apply, programme details, assessment methods.

• Application details – fees, funding and how to apply

The DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development is a research doctorate, which culminates in a substantive academic thesis of around 100,000 words. As such, successful applicants will have a very strong academic record, as well as showing great aptitude through their academic proposal, and a display of future potential. Although we are keen to attract individuals for whom there is a strong overlap between academic and career interests, DPhil candidates will be examined solely on the intellectual quality of the final thesis and performance in a viva voce. Intellectual drive, ambition and vision are therefore crucial attributes.

There is an expectation that candidates will read widely and in depth throughout their time on the programme, and show the ability to think about and critique current theoretical thinking in their chosen area of study. It is hoped that the final thesis might substantially advance theoretical thinking (in addition to broadening the empirical base) within a number of interdisciplinary areas.

This DPhil programme is taken over a minimum of four years (12 terms) and a maximum of eight years (24 terms). Students are required to attend a minimum of 30 days of university-based work each year for the duration of the studies, to be arranged with the agreement of the supervisor. As part of the minimum 30 days per year requirement, students are expected to take part in three termly Doctoral Weeks (see below).

Students admitted to this degree conduct their own research under the guidance of a University supervisor, who will advise on all aspects of training, development and academic progress. Students must be prepared to work independently a good deal, and will need considerable personal motivation. Students are required to have a good general knowledge of the field within which research falls and of the methods appropriate to the study of this field. Throughout the period of study, students are part of a thriving international graduate community of peers engaged with sustainable urban development, including students in our  MSc in Sustainable Urban Development .

Students are admitted initially as a Probationary Research Student (PRS), in line with University regulations on doctorates. During the probationary period, students develop and begin work on the thesis topic. They will develop research skills through a range of training and skills development offered during the termly Doctoral Week, as well as via the Department’s  Graduate School and other units across the University .

The termly Doctoral Week brings together students from all cohorts on the programme to discuss relevant topics in sustainable urban development, as well as to develop research skills and engage it additional research training and development.

Students must apply for a Transfer of Status from PRS to DPhil status between the 6th and the 8th terms after admission (each academic year at Oxford has three terms). This involves the submission of a piece of written work that is examined by two assessors (neither of whom will be supervisors). This process is to ensure that the student’s work is of potential DPhil quality and that the methodology of the research is appropriate and feasible. Upon successful completion of the Transfer of Status, students usually undertake a period of fieldwork over one to two years.

Students will also be required to apply for a Confirmation of Status as DPhil sometime between the 12th and 18th terms after admission. This will also involve the submission of a piece of written work that is assessed by two assessors (neither of whom are supervisors). The Confirmation assessment is different to the Transfer assessment as the assessors will be focusing on how the research is progressing, the quality of the draft thesis chapters, and on the plan for completion. The assessors will be looking to ensure that the student is making the appropriate amount of progress in the development of the thesis, so that thesis submission will be achieved within the time limit.

Dr Nihan Akyelken

Role: Potential Supervisor

Keywords: Transport and mobility; mobility-related social exclusion; inequalities and access; urban economic inequalities; labour and work; mega projects; governance of mobility innovations.

Dr Idalina Baptista

Keywords: urbanisation in Africa; energy infrastructures; colonial and post-colonial infrastructures; urban planning and governance; urban theory.

Dr Patricia Canelas

Keywords: Property Development and Investment; Developer/Investor behaviour; Planning (de)regulation; Development Value Capture; Housing and Build-to-Rent; Land- and Property-Ownership; Neighbourhoods and Place-making.

Dr Debbie Hopkins

Keywords: Transport and mobilities; sustainable tourism; low carbon transitions; work and labour; infrastructures; energy systems.

Dr David Howard

Keywords: Urbanisation and development geographies of Latin America and Caribbean societies; housing, land tenure and informality; urban security; urban colonial legacies; place-making; Dominican Republic, French Guiana Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago.

Dr Nigel Mehdi

Keywords: Economics of sustainability; urban economics; real estate markets, smart cities and big data.

Dr Vlad Mykhnenko

Keywords: Urban and regional economies; shrinking cities; resilience; economic convergence, divergence and territorial cohesion; fiscal federalism, devolution and local government finance.

Award of the DPhil is dependent upon completion of a 100,000-word doctoral thesis within an area of Sustainable Urban Development to the satisfaction of two examiners (neither of whom are supervisors) and defending that thesis in a more formal viva voce with the two examiners.

Application details

Funding opportunities.

Please see the our 'sources of funding' page for help and information with regard to funding doctoral studies. We further recommend that applicants search for funding opportunities via the online  Fees, Funding and Scholarship search tool .

In order to be considered for many scholarships, applicants are required to apply by the January deadline. However, applicants should note that some scholarships require additional application materials and may have different deadlines, so applicants should make sure they check the application process for each scholarship carefully.

How to apply

Applications for this course should be made via the University of Oxford  Graduate Admissions website . This website provides information on fees and entry requirements along with help on preparing and submitting your application.

Before submitting an application you may email the Programme Director with a clear research proposal so that he may consider appropriate supervision in the first instance. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact us via [email protected] . 

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support

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Urban studies

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Doctorate Urban planning courses in United Kingdom

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PhD in Urban Studies

Glasgow , United Kingdom

THE world university rank:  87

Course qualification

Entry score

Total course fee

AUD 131,860 ? GBP  70,560 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

PhD Urban Planning and Design (China)

Suzhou , United Kingdom

THE world university rank:  168

AUD 51,708 ? CNY  240,000 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

MPhil/PhD Urban Design

London , United Kingdom

THE world university rank:  801

AUD 115,489 ? GBP  61,800 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

PhD Urban Studies

Edinburgh , United Kingdom

THE world university rank:  351

AUD 106,833 ? GBP  57,168 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

PhD/MPhil Planning

Liverpool , United Kingdom

AUD 122,497 ? GBP  65,550 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

MPhil/PhD in Urban Planning, Design and Participation

AUD 81,291 ? GBP  43,500 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

PhD by Published Work Urban Design

AUD 28,872 ? GBP  15,450 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

PhD in Urban Studies and Planning

Sheffield , United Kingdom

THE world university rank:  105

AUD 116,779 ? GBP  62,490 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Mphill/Phd in Urban Design and Planning

AUD 97,101 ? GBP  51,960 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

PhD in Urban Planning (new)

Dundee , United Kingdom

THE world university rank:  301

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• Department of Urban Studies and Planning

Funding your PhD for entry in 2024-25

The Department of Urban Studies and Planning invests heavily in PhD study and the development of our postgraduate community.

Applications are assessed on the basis of academic success and qualifications, experience, research background, an excellent, original and well-articulated research proposal, the potential impact of the research and a good match with supervisor/department expertise.

Scholarship opportunities for 2024/5 entry 

Now closed - Decisions are made and communicated to applicants between the end of February to the end of April, depending on the scheme. If you have any questions about scholarships please see our  FAQs

Urban Studies and Planning Funding Application Process

Applicant-led scholarships.

• White Rose ESRC DTP Pathway Scholarships
• White Rose ESRC DTP AQM Open Competition Scholarships
• WRoCAH AHRC DTP Open Competition Scholarships
• University of Sheffield Research Scholarships  
• China Scholarship Council

Scholarships offered with an existing research project

The following funding competitions are currently closed:

• ESRC Collaborative Studentships - White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership / University of Sheffield
• ESRC Network Studentships  - White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership / University of Sheffield
• ESRC CDT Data Analytics Scholarships - ESRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Data Analytics
• AHRC Collaborative Scholarships - White Rose College of Arts and Humanities

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MPhil in Planning, Growth and Regeneration

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Course closed:

Planning, Growth and Regeneration is no longer accepting new applications.

The unequal distribution of income, jobs, and welfare across cities, places, and regions is one of the defining issues of our time, and it is increasingly seen as a waste of economic potential, as well as a challenge for social cohesion and sustainable development. The MPhil in Planning, Growth and Regeneration (PGR) is the flagship programme of the University of Cambridge aiming to address issues of urban and regional planning and development.

The programme is based on renowned planning research and practice at the Department of Land Economy, with input from leading planning and relevant professionals. It provides advanced skills training to professionals involved in managing local economic growth and regeneration through place-based public policy, regulating land use, and undertaking strategic planning at different subnational scales.

The course features a multidisciplinary approach which draws from Urban and Spatial Planning, Economics, and Geography, with additional specialism in Law, Finance, and Environmental Policy. It aims to enable students to 1) understand the nature, processes and challenges of planning, growth, and regeneration in an urban/regional context, 2) develop key analytical skills for assessing and devising spatial planning solutions based on international best practice; and 3) work cooperatively with relevant professionals to develop effective and just planning policy solutions.

Core and optional modules focus on both Global North and Global South policy examples and case studies, with the goal of identifying the different spatial planning and developmental challenges and opportunities at different urban, local, and regional scales. Most teaching material draws on original cutting-edge research carried out by lecturers and international best practices, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods.

The focus of the course is applied and policy-relevant, and graduates from PGR are expected to join private (such as consultancies, real estate developers and financial professionals) and public organisations (such as civil service and NGOs) leading spatial planning and development practice at the subnational, national, and international scale. PGR is also an excellent starting point for a career in postgraduate research in local and regional planning and development, with the possibility to progress to the PhD in Land Economy.

The programme is targeted at two groups of applicants. First, those who have finished a degree in a relevant discipline and aim to gain a better understanding of urban and regional planning and development, and build up applied research skills. Second, practitioners, managers and planners who have some work experience in relevant sectors and want to widen their current knowledge in the interdisciplinary environment of Land Economy.

The MPhil in Planning, Growth and Regeneration is designed to provide students with the following competences in spatial planning and development:

• Understanding the process of and key considerations for land-use and infrastructure planning and development at various spatial levels;
• Designing efficient and effective spatial planning policies to manage transformative socio-economic, environmental and technological changes;
• Evaluating alternative approaches for the design and implementation of spatial plans, and then assessing their outcomes;
• Addressing the legal implications of planning policies for landownership, land/property law and use rights, and resources management;
• Developing an interdisciplinary and cooperative approach for understanding and managing growth and decline.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course, students will:

• Have gained in-depth knowledge of contemporary urban/regional planning and development topics, explored through both academic and practical policy lenses.
• Have learned to identify, critically review and synthetise large amounts of literature from a wide range of sources.
• Be able to identify the factors that lead to variations in local, urban, and regional growth and development, and the consequences of territorial imbalances for society, the economy, and the environment.
• Possess the skills to assess the scope for planning policy intervention to manage growth and decline, and identify the opportunities and constraints imposed by socio-economic, environmental, and institutional factors.
• Have developed independent research skills, for example, the ability to independently identify, critically review and synthetise a wide range of materials from multiple sources, as well as being able to identify research gaps, conduct sound empirical research designs, and develop coherent arguments in both oral and written format.

Approval of an application to continue to the PhD degree will depend on three criteria:

• Availability of a supervisor
• Approval by the Degree Committee of a research proposal
• Achievement of a minimum overall mark and minimum dissertation mark in the MPhil examination as prescribed by the Degree Committee in any offer of admission

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

10 months full-time, study mode : taught, master of philosophy, department of land economy, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, michaelmas 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Funding Deadlines

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

Similar Courses

• Land Economy MPhil
• Land Economy PhD
• Real Estate Finance MPhil
• Environmental Policy MPhil
• Land Economy Research MPhil

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MPhil/PhD Upgrade Seminar: Ahmed Jawdat

22 May 2024, 10:00 am–11:00 am

Hybrid Third Places as Catalysts for Innovative Placemaking: An Urban Design & Planning Exploration of the Connection Between Physical & Digital “Third Places”, Emerging Technologies, and Their Role in Social Interactions and Placemaking in Saudi Neighbourhoods.

Event Information

The term “third place” was coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg (1999), referring to the place where people socialise in the city beyond their home (first place) and work (second place). These third places are the epicentre of public social life and interactions, crucial to well-being. “Placemaking” discourse has also emphasised social interactions as one of its key aims. With the rise of social media, scholars have argued that it could be a form of a “digital third place” (Digital-TP) since it embodies most of Oldenburg’s third place characteristics. As technology and Digital-TPs evolve, it is essential to understand their impact on our “physical third places” (Physical-TP) and their potential opportunities in urban design and planning. This research uses Saudi Arabia as the main context of investigation.

Since oil was discovered in Saudi Arabia in 1938, cities across the country have undergone significant transformations. Imported development schemes, such as Dhahran’s Aramco camp in 1939 (Al-Naim, 2008) and the car-centric Doxiades plan of Riyadh in 1968 (Elsheshtawi, 2022), influenced design and planning across major cities, resulting in modern neighbourhoods with limited “third places” that do not meet Oldenburg’s principles. However, the last seven years have seen significant shifts and reforms under Saudi Vision 2030, driving a new era of cultural and urban transformations. Key vision initiatives include the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism, highlighting six core values including: “authenticity”; understood as environments that belong “physically and emotionally to the place” (Architecture and Design Commission, 2022). Notably, recent years have seen an increase in public social life, both “physically” and “digitally”. In certain cases, the integration of both realms is driven by “authenticity”.

This research will investigate the connection between Physical-TPs, Digital-TPs, and emerging technologies and how they can be strategically integrated to promote “physical” social interactions and innovative placemaking strategies in Saudi neighbourhoods. To achieve this, a mixed-method approach will be used. The empirical part of the study will involve digital surveys, semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and digital and physical observations. The research will conclude with the development of an urban design and planning strategy, which practitioners, decision-makers, and researchers can utilise.

Image Caption:  Collage image showcasing AlJadidah district in AlUla, Saudi Arabia with an overlay of people interacting with the third place physically and digitally. Background Image is taken in January 2023, and the people sketched are generated using DALLE.E AI software.

Supervisors: Dr Susan Moore (BSP), Professor Peter Bishop (BSA) and Professor Andy Hudson-Smith (CASA) Upgrade Panel members: Professor Mathew Carmona (BSP), and Professor Peter Bishop (BSA)  

About the Speaker

Ahmed jawdat.

Researcher in Urban Planning and Design at The Bartlett, University College London (UCL)

Ahmed Jawdat is an Architect, Urban Designer and Planner. He is currently a researcher in Urban Planning and Design at The Bartlett, University College London (UCL). Ahmed completed his studies in the United States between Miami and New York City. He obtained his Bachelors of Architecture from the University of Miami (B.Arch), and his Masters in Architecture and Urban Design (Ms.AUD) from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation (GSAPP). Prior to starting his PhD, Ahmed worked on different projects across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which are part of the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 and are key in improving and transforming the urban landscape in Saudi cities. Ahmed started his career at the UN Habitat Future Saudi Cities program, where he worked on the development of city profiles for various cities across Saudi Arabia, and giving recommendations on how to enhance the neighbourhoods and city wide level planning and design. He then worked on urban development, master planning, regeneration, and strategy formation in leading government and semi-government entities, including The Royal Commission for AlUla, The Architecture and Design Commission (affiliated with the Saudi Ministry of Culture), and Saudi Downtown Company.