A Master’s degree (Merit or Distinction) in Environmental Science, Ecology, Earth Sciences, Geography, Sustainability, or a closely related discipline.

Applicants must also hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least a UK 2:1 (Upper Second-Class Honours) or international equivalent in a relevant field such as Biology, Chemistry, Geology, or Environmental Engineering.

Strong academic preparation in environmental systems, climate science, ecology, geoscience, or environmental policy is expected.

Candidates from technical or interdisciplinary backgrounds (e.g. Physics, Economics, or Data Science) may be considered if their proposed research aligns with environmental studies.

International qualifications must meet UK equivalence standards (verified via UK ENIC, if required).

Leading UK universities (e.g. Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial College London, and Edinburgh) typically expect first-class undergraduate results and Distinction-level postgraduate performance.

Work experience is not mandatory, but research or fieldwork experience in environmental or sustainability-related areas is highly advantageous.

Applicants with experience in ecological monitoring, environmental policy, climate modelling, GIS mapping, or sustainability projects are particularly competitive.

Experience in laboratory analysis, data collection, or environmental consulting can strengthen applications, especially for applied research pathways.

For professional or industry-linked PhD projects, prior work in environmental management, conservation, or government agencies is often beneficial.

Published research, field reports, or participation in international environmental initiatives demonstrates strong research potential.

IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5–7.0, with no component below 6.0.

TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90–100, with section scores typically above 22.

PTE Academic: Overall score of 62–70, with no skill below 62.

Applicants who completed prior degrees in English or studied in a majority English-speaking country may be exempt from language testing.

Some universities may require IELTS 7.0 overall for research programmes with extensive collaboration or field communication components.

Official academic transcripts and degree certificates for all completed qualifications (with certified English translations if required).

Detailed research proposal (typically 1,500–3,000 words) outlining your intended research topic, aims, methodology, and environmental or societal impact.

Personal statement explaining your academic background, fieldwork or research experience, and motivation for pursuing doctoral study in Environmental Science.

Curriculum vitae (CV) including academic history, research skills, fieldwork experience, publications, and technical expertise (e.g., GIS, remote sensing, or modelling software).

Two or three academic references, with at least one from a previous supervisor familiar with your research or fieldwork capabilities.

Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable).

Some programmes may request a sample of written work or published research to assess analytical and writing ability.

Applicants may also be invited to an interview to discuss their proposed project and prior research experience.