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The Doctor of Philosophy degree is awarded based on demonstrated broad expertise and notable achievements within a specialized discipline. Candidates must prove their capacity for autonomous research through a dissertation that showcases innovative investigation or scholarly creativity, presented with exceptional writing quality. As a research-focused degree, it is never awarded purely for completing coursework. A fundamental requirement of Ph.D. studies is proving one's ability to execute a research initiative and effectively communicate its outcomes. The dissertation must make a meaningful addition to the field's body of knowledge, with content deemed publishable by the examining committee. Applicants must secure a faculty advisor before entering the Ph.D. program. Research possibilities span multiple areas of environmental sciences, environmental studies, and both physical and human geography. The Ph.D. program combines academic coursework with significant research requirements.
Typical Completion Time - 4 years.
The following are minimum requirements for entry into the geography PhD program.
A candidate must normally complete a master's degree before entering the PhD program.
PhD applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 in the last 60 credit hours of study.
English language proficiency
IAEP (Intensive Academic English Program) - Pass Level 5/AEPUCE (Academic English Program for University and College Entrance) with a minimum of 65% overall
IELTS (Academic module) (International English Language Testing System) - 6.5 overall
Internet-based TOEFL - Overall score of 86 (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking - 20)
Pearson Test of English Academic - 61 overall
Cambridge Assessment of English at the C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency level - Minimum score of 180