MPhil-PhD in Urban Studies
The global world is becoming increasingly urbanized. Urban and environmental studies are of prominent significance in China and are particularly important for Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area, one of the world’s fastest growing metropolitan regions. There has been an increasing demand of well-trained professionals who possess a deep understanding of multiple dimensions of urban development issues in China and the global world. This programme is designed for students who wish to pursue an advanced degree in the broad area of urban studies, with research focuses on urban policy and governance, urban environment and resource management, urban data and analytics, and urban sustainability. It aims to strengthen students’ knowledge in related subjects and train them to conduct interdisciplinary analysis and independent research, with critical and creative capability. Applicants should have an educational background in urban and regional planning, land resource management, public policy/administration, sociology, economics, geography, political science, sustainable development, and other related social science disciplines.
Q1: How many applicants will be accepted?
A1: About 10-15 Merit-based admissions.
Q2: I haven't received my language proficiency test report yet or my language proficiency test report has expired. Can I still submit the application?
A2: Yes, but you must submit a valid language proficiency test report by the deadline.
Q3: What's the word limit of a personal statement? Any other requirements?
A3: About 1000 words and finish it by yourself.
Q4: Are there any specific requirements or word limits for the research proposal?
A4: There are no specific requirements. Please write the research proposal yourself and upload it as a supplementary document in the online application system.
Q5: Can I be exempted from submitting a language proficiency report if I have studied abroad or in Hong Kong?
A5: Yes, only after all your related document has been verified and meet the requirement for language test exemption.
Q6: Are MPhil and PhD separate programs?
A6: MPhil is not offered as a separate curriculum. The PhD program in Urban Studies only accepts postgraduate candidates.
Q7: Can students in their third year of graduate study apply?
A7: Yes, they can apply. If accepted, they must meet all admission requirements before enrollment.
Q8: Is a published paper an essential requirement? Are conference papers also acceptable?
A8: Candidates with published papers will be preferred. Conference papers will be considered in application evalations as well.
Q9: How will graduate scholarships be awarded?
A9: Excellent doctoral applicants will be offered an admission scholarship. In addition, doctoral students undertaking teaching assistant duties will receive a monthly allowance. The Ph.D. Program in Urban Studies also accepts a small number of self-funded students who are not eligible for scholarships or teaching assisantships. The admission requirements for these students remain the same.
Q10: What does the application document review focus on?
A10: The evalutions focus on academic background, language skills, overseas study experience, publication records, the quality of research proposal, etc.
Q11: Do I need to contact supervisors in advance?
A11: No, you may directly submit an online application.
Q12: Will the interview be conducted with a committee or a preferred supervisor?
A12: Admission and scholarships will be determined by the Doctoral Admission Committee's comprehensive evaluation.
Q13: Is the assigment of supervisors based on applicants’ final ranking?
A13: It will be a dynamic and two-way selection process.
