The University allocates around 150 entry awards each year in PhD studentships and bursaries, so there are many ways to access PhD funding. A studentship is usually a package that provides full funding for tuition fees and living costs.
Tuition fees
PhD fees vary according to where you come from, whether you study full-time or part-time and where you are based during your degree.
Alumni discounts
If you've previously completed a degree with us, you’ll automatically receive our alumni discount (£1,500 off the cost of your tuition fees).
PhD funding
Funding specific to mathematics and statistics PhDs
EPSRC Mathematics for our Future Climate Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
Are you ready to be at the forefront of mathematical solutions for climate challenges? The Mathematics for our Future Climate Centre for Doctoral Training programme is an EPSRC-funded interdisciplinary initiative that harnesses the power of mathematics to address the urgent issues presented by climate change.
The CDT offers 4-year funded PhD studentships covering fees and a maintenance grant for living expenses. PhD project areas are split into mathematical theory and numerical modelling of fundamental oceanic and atmospheric processes, analysis of data and assimilation with weather and climate models, and mathematical applications related to the response to climate change. Find out more about Mathematics for our Future Climate (CDT) studentships
NERC Climate System and Biodiversity Science CROCUS Doctoral Landscape Award (DLA)
Funded PhD opportunities training a new generation of environmental scientists to become interdisciplinary experts with strong quantitative skills, creative thinkers, and leaders in sustainability and inclusivity. Such knowledge and skills are critical in delivering the ambitious Net Zero, adaptation and restoration plans adopted by governments and businesses worldwide. Find out more about the NERC CROCUS DLA
NERC AI-INTERVENE Doctoral Focal Award (DFA)
The AI for Unlocking Datasets for Biodiversity Assessment and Prediction (AI-INTERVENE) DFA is training a new generation of AI-empowered data scientists. They will be equipped with the required AI and data science tools, ecological knowledge and wider interdisciplinary skillset to unlock the full potential of the wealth of existing and emerging sources of biodiversity data. Funded opportunities are available for 2025; details will be announced soon.
Additional doctoral training programmes
The University of Reading is a major centre of research and training to tackle the environmental science and sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow, you can explore additional doctoral training programmes
Other sources of funding
Other sources of funding can include:
- individual awards to the student, made via the Department
- project studentships, funded by grants held by a particular supervisor
- CASE studentships, again held by a particular supervisor
- studentships sponsored entirely by UK industry or research establishments.
Early application to the Department is recommended.
Studentships for PhD students
The University's Doctoral and Researcher College holds information about studentships and other funding available for postgraduate study. Studentships are available for both UK and international students.
Alternative sources of funding
The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding is a database of less well-known sources of doctoral funding.
Supplement your income
You might consider part-time or casual work as a way to supplement your income during your studies. There are often vacancies at the University, which you can apply for through Campus Jobs.
