Designs on net-zero: Exploring design thinking and innovation in Nature-based SMEs
SMEs adopting Nature-based solutions to address climate and environmental concerns are emerging in response to #netcarbonzero agendas.
Research Opportunities
Summary
Across Scotland increasing numbers of these organisations are growing new forests and innovating sustainable business models to mobilise natural resources in pursuit of social and ecological benefits balanced with financial sustainability. Design has the potential to drive innovation as well as communication, and co-creative and place-based approaches can contribute to engagement. Yet, little is known about these organisations.
This interdisciplinary project will investigate the design practices involved, identify archetypes of this emerging sector, and support practitioners to develop best and most effective practice.
Supervisors
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Research Theme
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About our Research Degrees
We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
If you need any further support prior to applying, please email researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master鈥檚 degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk to see if you are eligible.
English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2025/2026
UK/EU Students
- Full time - 拢5,006 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - 拢3,000 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - 拢3,000 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - 拢17,820 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - 拢10,690 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - 拢10,690 per academic year
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - 拢4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - 拢2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - 拢2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - 拢17,300 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - 拢10,380 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - 拢8,650 per academic year
Additional Costs
The following course-related costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase
- Accommodation and living costs
- Printing
Alumni Discount
Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from 19抖阴.
Scholarships and Financial Awards
Postgraduate research students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However you may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Funded Studentships
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
How to Apply
Applications
All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen 19抖阴.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at 19抖阴.
Find out more about the English language qualification we accept:
Ready to start this Research Degree?
Find out about our entry requirements, application dates and how to apply.
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