PhD in Social Geography

Social Geography is a branch of Human Geography that studies the interaction between society and space. PhD candidates in Social Geography investigate the ways in which social phenomena such as migration and demographic change impact human environments, as well as how spatial conditions impact the development of societies.

What’s it like to study a PhD in Social Geography?

With the guidance of an expert supervisor, you’ll work towards an extended dissertation that should make a significant, original contribution to the field of Social Geography.

Possible research areas include:

• Tourism
• Globalisation
• Migration
• Environmental conservation
• Food environments
• Urbanisation

Most of your time as a PhD candidate in Social Geography will likely be spent carrying out independent research. You might use methods such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, field studies, and participant observation. Some Social Geographers also gather data using technologies such as Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing.

Alongside your research, you may be required to attend training, and assist with departmental duties such as undergraduate teaching.

You may have the opportunity to publish your work in academic journals or present your work at conferences.

PhD in Social Geography entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for PhD projects in Geography is usually a 2:1 Bachelors degree in a relevant discipline, though a Masters degree is occasionally required. Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis, so it’s likely that a postgraduate qualification will be an advantage, even if it is not required.

PhD in Social Geography funding options

The Research Council responsible for funding most Social Geography PhDs in the UK is the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), but depending on the focus of your project, you may also be able to apply for funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

Research councils provide fully funded studentships that include coverage of your tuition fees, along with a stipend to cover living expenses. Advertised Geography PhDs will often have studentships attached. Students proposing their own research project may be able to apply for a studentship after being accepted onto a programme.

Many Social Geography PhD programmes, however, will only accept self-funded students. Options for independently financing your PhD include the UK government’s doctoral loan, part-time employment alongside your studies and support from charities or trusts.

PhD in Social Geography Careers

Many PhD graduates in Social Geography will go on to pursue and career in research, but you’ll also be well-qualified to seek work in numerous other fields such as urban planning, local or national government, consultancy or market research.