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Agriculture, Rural and Environmental Studies (Research)

  • 2 Study options
  • Postgraduate
4 Campuses
Awarded by:
Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)
More about SRUC Scotland's Rural College

Course options

2026-20272027-2028
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Course summary

This interdisciplinary programme is rooted in our internationally recognised research, offering opportunities to contribute to critical global challenges such as food and nutrition security, one health, climate change, and efficient resource usage. SRUC is in the top 25% of global universities for activities supporting the SDG's (United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals) Zero Hunger, Climate Action and Life on Land. Our research ranks in the top 100 universities worldwide for Zero Hunger and was among the top 200 institutions for Climate Action and Life on Land.

SRUC offers a dynamic, high-quality environment for postgraduate research and training. Our PhD programme is designed to support your growth as a researcher and prepare you for impactful careers in academia, industry, consultancy, and beyond.

What You Can Expect

As a doctoral student, you’ll:

  • conduct original, supervised research that tackles real-world, novel challenges

  • be fully integrated into your department and research team

  • take part in journal clubs, seminars, and collaborative group meetings

  • access a wide range of training opportunities to support your academic and professional development

Your Research Journey

Whether you choose a pre-defined PhD project or work with us to develop your own proposal, you'll receive expert guidance every step of the way. Our supportive environment fosters innovation, collaboration, and the confidence to take your ideas forward.

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Aberdeen
  • Edinburgh
  • Inverness
  • Barony

Study options

  • Doctor of Philosophy • Full-Time • 4 Years
  • Doctor of Philosophy • Part-Time • 7 Years

Start dates

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have at least one of the following:

An undergraduate degree, usually at 1st or 2:1 class level, or equivalent in a relevant subject; or
A relevant master’s qualification or equivalent evidence of prior professional practice.

English language requirements

Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not been educated previously in the English language must provide evidence of their English language ability to ensure they can cope with the demands of a course taught and assessed in English. Further information about the English Language tests that we currently accept as proof of English Language ability can be viewed on our website. English language tests should be no more than two years old on the start date of your chosen course.https://www.sruc.ac.uk/international/international-students/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Per year tuition fees

LocationFeeYear
England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands & Republic of Ireland£5006*
EU & International£18000*

* This is a provisional fee and subject to change.

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

An additional bench fee will be payable on an annual basis, depending upon the nature of the PhD studies. These costs will be made clear at the time that ant offer of PhD study at SRUC is made. PhD tuition fees are set by UKRI for all PhDs across the UK. The cost listed in an estimate and may be subject to change.

Related courses

At SRUC Scotland's Rural College

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