PhD programme in Human Geography
The PhD programme in Human Geography aims to give the PhD students foundational training and in-deepth knowledge of Human Geography. The programme comprises four years of full-time studies and leads to a doctoral degree (240 higher education credits). Students may also obtain a licentiate degree (120 higher education credits) after two years of full-time studies.
Within Human Geography, there are three different research fields in which researchers cooperate. We study numerous geographical spheres: the role of space and place; development geographies (multiple areas), space-transcending networks, interactions and flows; landscapes and the environment. They all play important roles in understanding society, the economy and the everyday life of people in a world characterised by globalisation, uneven development, urbanisation, cultural dynamics and environmental concerns. Accordingly, the research activities at the department essentially concern the following themes:
- Development Geographies
- Mobility, communication and transport geography
- Nature - society relations and landscapes
The PhD students will, during the programme plan and implement an individual research project, with support from individual supervising, as well as participate in courses, seminars, conferences and excursions.
The basis for selection:
a) the applicant fulfills the general and specific entry requirements; b) there is funding ; c) the applicant is deemed capable of benefiting from such education.
General entry requirements
General entry requirements are fulfilled if the applicant has:
- completed an academic degree at advanced level (second cycle courses and programmes),
- completed course requirements for a minimum of 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 at advanced level (second cycle), or
- in another way acquired essentially the equivalent knowledge in Sweden or abroad.
Specific entry requirements
The specific entry requirements for third-cycle education in Human Geography are fulfilled if the applicant has completed at least 90 higher education credits within the subject, including a degree project corresponding to 15 higher education credits or equivalent knowledge acquired in some other way.
The application should contain a letter of intent (ca. 3-4 pages), where the applicant describes his/her research interests and personal goals in relation to the research profile available at the Unit for Human Geography in Gothenburg. A complete plan of action is not required, but if present it should be submitted.
The application must also be accompanied by references, CV, transcripts, Degree certificate as well as other documents of importance for the assessment. The documents shall clearly indicate the grades for both individual courses as for the degree. Theses (bachelor's, and master's theses) should be attached as well as other publications of relevance.
The announcements will contain specific information on what to submit with your application.
Announcements of PhD positions usually take place during spring, with programme start in September. The job positions are announced on the University of Gothenburg’s website.
Each PhD student will be appointed a principal supervisor and an assistant supervisor.
An individual study plan must be drawn up for each doctoral student. The individual study plan must be followed up and revised yearly.
