Swansea University

PhD Biological Sciences

Swansea University

Course overview

The PhD in Biological Sciences from Swansea University is a doctoral degree that teaches students about life, including the behaviour of plants, animals, and other microorganisms, on an advanced level. This degree is primarily practical, although research work on a topic related to the field will also be conducted.

Students work on areas of biology such as cell and molecular biology, microbiology, ecology, or neurobiology. They will also undertake individual biological sciences research over three years, supported by renowned researchers.

Additionally, the project will be carried out based on student participation in research activities such as seminars, workshops, laboratory activities, and fieldwork, as well as involvement in established research groups. Some of the research initiatives provided by the university include EnAlgae, Ecojel, and LRCI Marine.

Learning in this course is through independent research, presentations, workshops, and group discussions. Assessment methods include a written thesis, oral examination (viva voce), and evaluation of seminar presentations.

Entry requirements

Candidates must submit one reference to the Faculty as part of the application process. Please note that a standard proposal, interview, and professional experience are also considered in this programme.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree at 2:1 level in Biosciences or a related subject, or a master’s degree with a minimum overall grade of merit.

English Proficiency:

  • International students require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no individual component below 6.0.

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • International Excellence Scholarships

    Scholarships are awarded as a discount on tuition fees worth up to £5,000 in the first year of study, with a further £2,000 awarded in Year 2 (for £5,000 awardees only, subject to achieving a 70% average).

  • International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries

    First Class - £5,000 per year; Second Class, First division - £3,000 per year; Second Class, Second division - £1,000 per year; Taught Masters to Research Degree - £3,000 per year subject to satisfactory progress.

  • Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES)

    The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee rate for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme.

  • Swansea University Sport Scholarship

    Financial support (of up to £2000).

  • Thrive Bursary

    The Thrive bursary is a £4,000 reduction in tuition fees for the first year of study, with a progression bursary of £2,000 in subsequent years (applied as a discount off tuition fees).

    Up to £4,000

Career opportunities

Graduates with a PhD in Biological Sciences from Swansea can work in roles such as:

  • Academic Researcher
  • Bioinformatics Data Scientist
  • Science Policy Specialist
  • Consultant or Patent Specialist
  • Industrial Scientist

Cost of study

International postgraduate students seeking to study a PhD in Biological Sciences from Swansea University will pay a tuition fee of £25,300.

Admission

Apply for this course directly through the university's online portal. For expert, personalised application guidance, contact an AHZ counsellor now.

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