Program Overview

Overview

The Civil Engineering (Environmental) MPhil, PhD program at Newcastle University focuses on environmental engineering, which assesses and mitigates pollution for the benefit of human health and the environment. This field brings together many disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, socio-economics, and legislation. The program aims to foster, promote, and conduct research of international quality, attracting high-quality graduates and researchers and training them to international standards.

Research Areas

The main research themes in environmental engineering include:

• Engineered biological systems
• Manipulation of the fate of micro-pollutants
• Pollutant sequestration
• Bioremediation
• Risk assessment
• Sanitation and low-cost water supplies for developing countries
• Waste stabilization ponds
• Constructed wetlands
• Minewater treatment
• Carbon neutral initiatives
• Geothermal energy

Qualifications Explained

The program offers MPhil and PhD supervision in the above research areas. An MPhil is available in all subject areas, and you will receive research training and undertake original research leading to the completion of a 40,000 - 50,000 word thesis. A PhD is a doctorate or doctoral award that involves original research, leading to the completion of a substantial piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis.

How You'll Learn

Assessment methods depend on your modules and may include a thesis and a viva. The program offers a wide range of projects for the thesis, provided by academics, and you can also propose your own topic. You will have access to a broad range of workshops covering research and professional skills, careers support, wellbeing, health and safety, public engagement, and academic development.

Your Development

The Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering (SAgE) researcher development programme is designed to help you perform better as a researcher, boost your career prospects, and broaden your impact. The program covers techniques for effective research, methods for better collaborative working, and essential professional standards and requirements.

Your Future

The program is ideal for those enthusiastic about environmental engineering research. Our Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. You will have access to a wide range of career resources and support to help you achieve your career goals.

Quality and Ranking

Newcastle University is a Global Top 140 University (QS World University Rankings 2026) and has a strong research reputation, with 42% of its research classified as 4* world-leading (Research Excellence Framework 2021).

Facilities

The School of Engineering has an exceptional range of laboratories equipped with a wide range of analytical instrumentation supporting research, teaching, and contract research projects. You will have access to state-of-the-art chemical and biological research labs and a wide range of analytical facilities.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry vary depending on your residency status and the program you choose. Home students' fees are not set, while international students' fees range from £33,500 to £43,700 per year. You may be eligible for scholarships or funding, and you can search for available funding opportunities on the university's website.

Entry Requirements

The entrance requirements for the program include a 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject. Combinations of undergraduate qualifications, master's qualifications, and relevant work experience may also be considered. You should contact the School to discuss your proposed research and find a potential research supervisor.

How to Apply

To apply for the program, you should first find and contact a research supervisor from the School of Engineering. You can then submit your application through the university's application portal, which will guide you through the process and tell you what documents you need to upload. If you are an international student, you may need to pay a deposit or submit an official letter of sponsorship as part of the application process.