Public Affairs and Social Policy Professional Doctorate at St Mary's University, Twickenham

Programme overview

This Professional Doctorate in Public Affairs and Social Policy offers an intellectually rigorous route to developing original research grounded in professional practice. This programme presents a unique opportunity for professionals working in areas such as policy, communications, charities, and government to study at doctoral level while influencing policy, strengthening professional practice, and contributing original theoretical insights within their field. The programme consists of two parts.

What you will study

Core modules: Driving Impact: Translating Research for Institutional Impact, Contemporary Issues in Research Methods, Applied Social Research: Theory, Design, and Practice, Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods, Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods, Research Ethics and Professional Practice, Research Proposal and Project Planning, Independent Research.

Career pathways

This degree supports progression into leadership and senior professional roles across the public sector, think tanks, charities, and the private sector, including positions in policy development, analysis, communications, and research.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A 1000-word outline of your professional context and possible areas of research that offer potential for you to demonstrate how the research could transform your practice; A CV which demonstrates that you have at least three years’ significant and relevant experience in a professional area appropriate to the programme of study; A Master’s degree which matches the descriptor for a Level 7 qualification in the UK Framework of Higher Education Qualifications; OR An equivalent academic qualification; OR Evidence of equivalent experience and learning acquired in a professional context; Evidence of proficiency in spoken and written English at IELTS 6.5 in accordance with St Mary’s standards for English language requirements; and, Two professional referees.

Domestic applicants: GBP 3,720 a year (2026/27). September 2026 entry Source

International applicants: GBP 3,720 a year (2026/27). September 2026 entry Source

Intake: September

Duration: 4-7 years (part-time)

Apply through the official page: https://stmarysuniversity.formstack.com/forms/research_application

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