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Doctor of Philosophy in Geography and Environmental Studies

Doctoral degree
ID:
0174_100_N118

The Doctor of Philosophy in Geography and Environmental Studies is a research-intensive programme comprising an independent research project and dissertation under academic supervision, aimed at making an original contribution to the field.

The programme focuses on the study and resolution of environmental problems and phenomena from a spatial perspective. You can complete the dissertation on a full-time or part-time basis.

Kontakbesonderhede
Prof A van Niekerk
Programme Leader

Programoorsig

Duur
Three years
Kampus
Stellenbosch
Type
Dissertation

Meer inligting

Vou alles toe

Wanneer jy aansoek doen

When applying for a postgraduate programme, some may require you to upload additional supporting documents beyond completing the standard application form online. Where such documents are required, more information will appear under the section below titled “Supporting Application Documents.”

Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Research Master’s and PhD applicants are strongly advised to consult the relevant department before applying to discuss their proposed research topic and confirm the availability of a suitable supervisor.

Minimum toelatingsvereistes

To be admitted to a PhD programme in the Faculty of Science you must have a recognised master’s degree in a relevant field from this University or another university, approved by Senate for this purpose.

Supporting application documents

Evidence of written academic work
A sample of your best written work (e.g., abstract of a research component completed during your honours studies/ or published journal article).

Document placeholder name on application portal:
Evidence of work / Copy of thesis / Summary of research

Letter of motivation
One-page document explaining what factors are motivating you to apply for the specific programme(s) and describing what makes you a suitable candidate.

Document placeholder name on application portal:
Motivational letter / Essay

Statement of research interest / Outline
This is a brief summary of the doctoral research proposal (1-3 pages in length) which outlines your area of research, aims of the research project and the research methodology you plan to use.

Document placeholder name on application portal:
Research project / Outline / Proposal

Programstruktuur

Compulsory Module
49905 : Geography and Environmental Studies A 978(360)

Assessment and Examination
A dissertation of approximately 90 000 words, that demonstrates the ability to create new knowledge or to reinterpret existing knowledge about a geographical problem. The dissertation is assessed according to the regulations of Stellenbosch University. You must do an oral examination in addition to the dissertation.

Last updated 23 April 2026
Vrywaring:
The University reserves the right to amend the information on this webpage at any time. While every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete, it may be subject to change or become outdated. It remains the responsibility of prospective students to verify all details against the relevant faculty yearbook or directly with the relevant department.

Aansoekdatums

Suid-Afrikaanse studente
Aansoeke open:
1-Apr 2026
Aansoeke sluit:
31-Mar 2027
Internasionale studente
Aansoeke open:
1-Apr 2026
Aansoeke sluit:
31-Mar 2027