CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
MPhil-PhD in Geography and Resource Management
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€23k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- MPhil: 15 coursework units + ThesisMPhil Requirements
- PhD: 12 coursework units + Examinations + ThesisPhD Requirements
- Specialization in Geo-spatial Data Science, Environment, Urban Development, and Smart CitiesFields of Specialization
- Optional Computational Social Science (CSS) ConcentrationCSS Concentration
- HK$47,000 - HK$49,500 (2026/27 - 2027/28)Annual Tuition Fee
- HK$62,000 estimated annual living costEstimated Living Costs
The MPhil-PhD programme in Geography and Resource Management at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) offers advanced research training in a dynamic and interdisciplinary field. The MPhil stream requires completion of 15 units of coursework and an MPhil thesis, while the PhD stream involves 12 units of coursework, a PhD thesis, and comprehensive examinations covering geographical theory, methodology, and specialized sub-disciplines. Students can specialize in areas such as Geo-spatial Data Science, Physical Environment and Resource Management, Urban and Regional Development, and Smart Sustainable Cities. A special Computational Social Science (CSS) Concentration is also available for PhD applicants. The programme aims to equip students with the skills to conduct original research and contribute to the understanding and management of geographical and environmental issues.
Curriculum
The programme structure differs slightly between the MPhil and PhD streams.
- MPhil
- Coursework
- MPhil Thesis
- PhD
- Coursework
- Examination Papers (Geographical Theory & Methodology, Specialization)
- PhD Thesis
Careers
Graduates are prepared for academic and research positions, as well as roles in government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector focusing on resource management, urban planning, environmental consulting, and data science.
- Academic Researcher
- Environmental Consultant
- Urban Planner
- Geospatial Data Analyst
- Resource Manager
- Policy Advisor
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the MPhil-PhD in Geography and Resource Management programme?
- The annual tuition fee for international students for the 2026-2027 academic year is HK$214,000. Any yearly fee adjustment for the 2026 cohort will be capped at 3%.
- What is the duration of the MPhil and PhD streams of this programme?
- The MPhil stream requires completion of coursework and an MPhil thesis. The PhD stream involves coursework, comprehensive examinations, and a PhD thesis.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum score of 6.5 for IELTS (Academic), 79 for TOEFL iBT, or equivalent. This applies if your prior education was not conducted in English.
- What are the estimated living costs for students at CUHK?
- The estimated annual living costs, including on-campus accommodation and living expenses, are approximately HK$62,000.
- What are the application deadlines for the MPhil-PhD in Geography and Resource Management programme?
- The main application round deadline is 1 December 2025, with a clearing round deadline of 31 March 2026. For PhD applicants applying for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS), the deadline is also 1 December 2025.
- What are the potential career paths after completing this programme?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Researchers, Environmental Consultants, Urban Planners, Geospatial Data Analysts, Resource Managers, and Policy Advisors in academia, government, NGOs, and the private sector.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree in Geography or related fieldsBasic training in undergraduate studies is required. A research proposal must be submitted.
Master's degree in Geography or related fields (for PhD applicants)Master's thesis or academic papers must be submitted.
IELTS (Academic)6.5
TOEFL79 (iBT) / 213 (CBT) / 550 (PBT)
HKDSE (English)Level 4
GMAT (Verbal)21
Applicants are considered non-local if they require a student visa, hold an IANG visa, or hold a dependant visa and were 18+ when issued. Proof of English proficiency is required for applicants whose prior education was not in English.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$214,000 (2026-2027 academic year). Any yearly fee adjustment for the 2026 cohort will be capped at 3%.
Tuition (home)HK$47,000 (2026-2027 annual tuition fees for local Hong Kong students).
LivingOn-Campus Accommodation: about HK$17,000. Living Expenses: about HK$45,000. Total estimated annual living costs: HK$62,000.
A caution fee of HK$450 is payable upon enrolment, refundable upon withdrawal or used as a graduation fee.
How to apply
1. Check EligibilityEnsure you meet the general admission requirements of the Graduate School and the specific requirements for the MPhil-PhD in Geography and Resource Management, including a background in Geography or a related field and a research proposal.
2. Prepare DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, a research proposal, and proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
3. Obtain Recommendation LettersArrange for two confidential recommendation reports from referees. These can be submitted via the online system or in sealed envelopes.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form for postgraduate programmes and submit it by the application deadline. For PhD programmes, if applying for the HKPFS, complete the initial RGC application and the full CUHK application by 1 December 2025.
5. Awaiting DecisionAdmissions decisions will be communicated after the application review process.
Scholarships
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)Covers tuition fees and living expenses
CUHK ScholarshipsCovers tuition fees and living expenses (in some cases)
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the MPhil-PhD in Geography and Resource Management programme?
+
The annual tuition fee for international students for the 2026-2027 academic year is HK$214,000. Any yearly fee adjustment for the 2026 cohort will be capped at 3%.
What is the duration of the MPhil and PhD streams of this programme?
+
The MPhil stream requires completion of coursework and an MPhil thesis. The PhD stream involves coursework, comprehensive examinations, and a PhD thesis.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum score of 6.5 for IELTS (Academic), 79 for TOEFL iBT, or equivalent. This applies if your prior education was not conducted in English.
What are the estimated living costs for students at CUHK?
+
The estimated annual living costs, including on-campus accommodation and living expenses, are approximately HK$62,000.
What are the application deadlines for the MPhil-PhD in Geography and Resource Management programme?
+
The main application round deadline is 1 December 2025, with a clearing round deadline of 31 March 2026. For PhD applicants applying for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS), the deadline is also 1 December 2025.
What are the potential career paths after completing this programme?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Researchers, Environmental Consultants, Urban Planners, Geospatial Data Analysts, Resource Managers, and Policy Advisors in academia, government, NGOs, and the private sector.