University of Bayreuth

Overview

The PhD programme in Space and Society at the University of Bayreuth investigates the intricate ways social, environmental, and educational processes influence spatial dynamics on various scales. This interdisciplinary programme, offered through the Bayreuth Graduate School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (BayNAT) with collaboration from the Department of Geography, prepares students to engage deeply with themes of human and physical geography, as well as geography education.

What you'll study

The programme is designed to support doctoral candidates through a comprehensive academic framework, research supervision, and integration within the university's Geography research community.

• Research project: Candidates will create an independent PhD research proposal focused on themes such as society-environment interactions, spatial order and territoriality, migration and interculturality, transformation and development, and geography education.
• Academic integration: Students will collaborate with relevant university focus areas and research groups, fostering connections across the fields of human geography, physical geography, and geography education.
• Methodological and professional development: Doctoral training includes activities aimed at enhancing research methods, academic writing, and presentation skills, tailored to the candidate's individual supervision and training plan.
• Research networks: Candidates can participate in university research initiatives, including collaborations with the Institute of Geography and the Cluster of Excellence “Africa multiple.”
• Final requirement: The programme culminates in the completion of a doctoral dissertation (PhD thesis) based on the student’s research project.

Possible thematic links: The programme encourages exploration in areas such as ecology and environmental sciences, African studies, and research on spatial processes at various scales.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to submit a short letter of application outlining their motivation for pursuing doctoral research within this programme. Additionally, candidates should provide a concise curriculum vitae, a copy of their university entrance qualification (e.g., Abitur certificate), and proof of a completed Bachelor’s and Master’s degree (or diploma) in a relevant field. If the final certificates are not yet available, alternative proof such as a confirmation of completed examinations may be submitted.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Space and Society PhD programme will be well-equipped for diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, and public or private sectors. Opportunities may include positions in urban planning, environmental consultancy, policy development, and educational roles within geography and related disciplines.