The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree, the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years. As well as your supervised original research, through your doctoral programme you will have opportunities to expand and develop your personal and professional skills. Doctoral candidates present their work at local and international conferences, and are encouraged to network and collaborate with a wide range of experts in their research field. This course is also offered at overseas and Manukau location. Geography Geography is the study of the natural processes and systems of the environment and the impact and consequences of human activity as it affects and is affected by the physical environment. You’ll enjoy Geography if you are interested in the world around you, from the relevance of Earth surface processes, to seeking solutions to environmental problems and the relationship among personal and global geographies of uneven development, and economic and socio-cultural change. Geography is an exciting and relevant subject that focuses on the development of practical skills in problem identification, research methodologies, ethics and analytical practices; alongside the exploration of social geographies of the city, and demographic and social changes in urban historical geographies. Where can Geography take you? Skills learned in research and data collection, analysis, evaluation, planning and problem-solving, alongside knowledge of moral and ethical issues, means our graduates can be found in a wide-range of roles in research and development, commerce and industry, and education. Programme structure The University of Auckland PhD is a three-to-four year full-time advanced research degree. On entry to the PhD programme, you will be enrolled provisionally. By the end of your first year, you must meet a number of goals to be confirmed into the PhD programme, including developing a full thesis proposal. After confirmation, you will continue to work on your research before submitting your thesis for examination after three years and within four years of your start date. The examination process includes an oral exam. As part of your PhD study, you can take part in our doctoral skills programme, designed to help you achieve success in your research and develop skills for your future. We have a dedicated postgraduate careers advisor, and our library service includes specialist subject librarians to help you in your research. The central School of Graduate Studies provides dedicated support and advice for the doctoral community. Where could this programme take you? Our PhD graduates are successful in a wide range of fields and careers, as well as the traditional academic research career path. The PhD gives you extensive specialist and transferable skills, which are sought after in many sectors, including industry and government, and can even help you to develop entrepreneurship skills to run your own startup.