How to Apply
Candidates wishing to apply to undertake research in this school should complete the appropriate form. More information on applying to study and a downloadable application form can be found by following the links on the right. The form should be submitted to Dr Roberta Sonnino, the Postgraduate Research Admissions Tutor, together with a 2000 word synopsis of the proposed research which should include the following:
- aims and purpose of the research
- overview of the academic literature relevant to your field
- proposed methodology
- academic contributions of your research
This is to ensure, firstly, that the school has the necessary expertise to provide adequate supervision and, secondly, that the applicant has a researchable project in mind. Potential applicants are encouraged to identify at an early stage the degree of "fit" between their proposed research and the research interests of City and Regional Planning staff. In order to do this, please refer to the research groups on sections on the school's website.
Applicants resident in the UK will be invited for interview and others may request an interview if they wish. If an application is satisfactory an offer of a place will be made by the Academic Registry. The offer may be subject to the achievement of a satisfactory degree result, or proof of English language ability. Once the offer has been accepted and all the conditions satisfied, joining instructions and application forms for accommodation will be sent, normally in July.
Evidence of English language is usually required of international students. Arrangements should be made at the nearest British Council office to take an English Language Test (ELTS test), or another appropriate test e.g. TOEFL. We look for the following standard: IELTS minimum overall score of 6.5 with at least a score of 7.0 in the writing section, and no less than a score of 6.0 in other sections. Candidates may be advised that they need additional tuition. Courses are available in Cardiff, varying from a full year to a number of weeks prior to October, each year. More details are available from the English Support Services website.
All students for whom English is a second language will also be tested on enrolment in September, and free English language classes arranged in the school for those who need additional help or revision. These classes should be viewed as 'brush-up' classes and do not substitute for the more intensive courses on offer between April and October.