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Postgraduate Study

Course closed:

Polar Studies (Scott Polar Research Institute) is no longer accepting new applications.

Research in polar studies embraces both the natural sciences and social sciences and humanities. The PhD in Polar Studies is a full-time, three-year research degree (or five years part-time) examined by a thesis. A successful thesis will represent a substantial contribution to knowledge and will also represent a realistic amount of work for three years of full-time study (or equivalent part-time). Students are based in the Scott Polar Research Institute, which is a sub-department of the Department of Geography.

In the first year, students attend a comprehensive training programme based around lectures, seminars, and workshops on fundamental ideas in geography, the design of research projects, and empirical methods and techniques. The °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï also offers a wide range of training courses for personal and professional development. There is no set course material.


Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

  • Discover °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

  • Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.

Key Information


3-4 years full-time

4-7 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Scott Polar Research Institute

Course - related enquiries

Dates and deadlines:

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
March 27, 2025
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

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

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Gates °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.