Biological Sciences, Ph.D. / Ph.D. Distance Learning / M.Phil.
Swansea UniversitySingleton Park Campus, United Kingdom
Course overview
Start dates: PhD/MPhil - 1st October, 1st January, 1st April & 1st July. You will undertake an individual biological sciences research project over two years (MPhil) or three years (PhD), supported by our internationally renowned researchers. The project will be shaped by your participation in research activities such as seminars, workshops, laboratory activity and fieldwork, as well as your involvement in one of our established research groups.
We are currently involved with several major research initiatives, including: The investment in the Sustainable Expansion of the Applied Coastal and Marine Sectors (SEACAMS) – a project to expand the commercial marine sector in Wales by increasing collaborative research projects between business and universities. Algal Biotechnology for Wales Knowledge Transfer Centre – an initiative providing businesses with advice on microalgal biotechnologies and access to industry-focused research. EnAlgae – aiming to reduce CO2 emissions and dependency on unsustainable energy sources in North-West Europe.
Ecojel – managing the opportunities and detrimental impacts of jellyfish in the Irish Sea. LRCI Marine, Low Carbon Research Institute – a collaboration of leading academic marine institutions in Wales, undertaking research to underpin the creation of a sustainable marine sector in Wales. The WISE programme (Welsh Institutes for Sustainable Environments) – making the impact of their products and processes more environmentally sustainable.
We are ranked: Top 301-350 in the World (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Key highlights
- Individual research project supported by internationally renowned researchers
- Membership of an established research group shapes your project
- Research training through seminars, workshops, laboratory work and fieldwork
- Links to SEACAMS, expanding Wales's commercial marine sector with business
- Algal biotechnology and EnAlgae initiatives connect research with industry
- Projects include Ecojel, studying jellyfish impacts in the Irish Sea
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:1 — to include Biosciences; or above
- Master's degree: Merit — …undergraduate degree at 2.1 level in Biosciences or a related subject, or a master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University).
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
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.
Careers this course leads to
- Postdoctoral research associate
- University lecturer in biological sciences
- Marine biologist
- Environmental consultant
- Biotechnology research scientist
- Conservation scientist
Cost of study
UK/Home: £5,006 per year | International: £24,100 per year
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Swansea University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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