Research Degree in Planning
Explore advanced spatial planning research with international fieldwork opportunities in a supportive academic environment.
Best for:Best for graduates with a strong background in planning, geography, or related fields, seeking to conduct original research in spatial planning, urban development, or climate-adaptive policies with international exposure.
Overview
This research programme at Queen’s University Belfast offers MPhil and PhD degrees in Planning, focusing on contemporary challenges in spatial planning, contested spaces, climate change, marine spatial planning, and urban design. Students work under the guidance of a supervisory team, integrating research into teaching and School activities. The programme supports international fieldwork and leverages strong partnerships across North America, South Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Applicants will conduct original research, submit a thesis within 2–3 years (full-time), and benefit from mentorship and dedicated academic support.
What you'll do
- Conduct original research under the supervision of an appointed academic team, aligned with current projects on contested spaces, climate change, or urban design.
- Develop and submit a thesis within 2–3 years (full-time) or equivalent part-time duration, demonstrating independent research and critical analysis.
- Engage in fieldwork internationally, supported by the university’s research partnerships in North America, South Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
- Collaborate with faculty and peers in research projects, teaching, and School activities, contributing to the broader academic community.
- Present research findings at conferences, workshops, or seminars as part of academic development.
- Leverage mentorship and dedicated support from the School to refine research skills and academic writing.
Requirements
Degree required: Upper Second Class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent from a UK or Republic of Ireland Higher Education provider, or an internationally recognised equivalent qualification.
Degree offered: MPhil or PhD
Language: English; IELTS score of 7.0 overall with no component below 6.0 (or equivalent qualification), taken within the last 2 years.
Instruction: English
- Proven academic ability in planning, geography, or a related discipline.
- Strong research proposal development skills.
- Ability to conduct independent academic research and critical analysis.
- Proficiency in English for research purposes (see language requirements).
- Experience with qualitative or mixed-methods research approaches.
- No specific nationality restrictions, but international students must meet UKVI English language requirements for visa purposes.
- No age restrictions, but applicants must meet the academic entry requirements.
- No prior experience caps, though research focus should align with faculty expertise.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Application instructions
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: unknown
Applicants must apply through Queen’s University Belfast’s online Postgraduate Applications Portal. Before applying, it is recommended to identify and contact potential supervisors to discuss research interests and project alignment. A short research proposal outline may be required to assist in supervisor matching.
- CV or curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, if applicable)
- Two or three letters of recommendation
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
- Research proposal outline (optional but recommended)
Contact
Postgraduate Research Admissions· Admissions Office
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