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The University of Waikato
The University of Waikato logo

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Earth Sciences

This course is available

On-Campus

Level of Study

Doctoral Degree

Duration

3 years

Next start date

Expected Jun 2023

Campus

Hamilton Campus

Summary

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is awarded by the University for research carried out under the supervision of at least two staff members. A PhD can also be presented as a PhD with Publication or a PhD with a Creative Practice Component. The research, which must be the candidate's own work, is written up as a thesis, and may include papers published or intended to be published. The thesis is required to present the case for the research, outline the research undertaken and the findings and conclusions of that research. There is no course work for this degree.

Earth Sciences

The demand for experts in Earth Sciences continues to grow as we look to better manage our soil, water, minerals, energy and coastal and marine resources, as well as understand natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, tsunami, landslides and volcanic eruptions.

The University of Waikato is uniquely placed to offer a thorough grounding in all aspects of the Earth Sciences. We are situated close to both North Island coasts, a short drive from the active Taupo Volcanic Zone, at the heart of the richest New Zealand farming region, and have New Zealand's longest river on our doorstep.

We are a leader in teaching and research related to the Earth’s environment, and offer you a learning experience that goes beyond the laboratory and lecture room - and out into the world.

As a graduate you will gain the knowledge and skills to pursue a wide range of careers. Earth Sciences graduates are spread across New Zealand and around the world, working in careers ranging from Earth resources' exploration to environmental management and planning, and from scientific research to teaching.

Career opportunities

  • Coastal Engineer
  • Coastal Resource Manager
  • Engineering Geologist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Geologist
  • Hydrologist
  • Soil Conservator
  • Volcanologist
  • Water Resource Manager
  • Hazard Manager

Start Date: The first day of any month from February to November

Entry criteria

To qualify to enrol for the PhD, an applicant must

have qualified for the award of a New Zealand bachelors degree with honours or master's degree,1 in a field relevant to the proposed research with at least second class honours (first division) or distinction, or for a qualification considered by the Academic Board to be equivalent, or

have qualified for the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in a field relevant to the proposed research, or

have enrolled for the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in a field relevant to the proposed research and demonstrated that they are able to transfer to the PhD, or

have passed qualifying papers at a satisfactory level in a field relevant to the proposed research, and

have demonstrated research ability, normally at least 30 points of research in an honours or master's degree, or significant professional research experience, or equivalent, or

in exceptional circumstances have produced other evidence to the satisfaction of the Postgraduate Research Committee that they have adequate skills and knowledge to proceed with the proposed research.

You also need to meet an English language entry requirement as follows: IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0); iBT (internet based) TOEFL - 90 with a score of 21 in writing; Pearson PTE Academic - Overall score of 58 and no PTE communicative skills score below 50; University of Waikato College - Successful completion of Level 8 with a B grade average in the Certificate of Attainment in English Language (CAEL) programme.

Note: Application closing dates will be 31st January, 31st May and 30th September.

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