PhD Gerontology and Ageing Studies at Swansea University

Programme overview

A PhD in Gerontology and Ageing Studies at Swansea University (Singleton Park Campus), at the largest gerontology research centre in Wales. The PhD programme forms part of the ESRC Doctoral Training Centre for Wales.

Department: School of Health and Social Care | Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time | Intake: October, January, April or July | Location: Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research on the influence of the natural and built environment on an ageing population and on care provision for older people across social care, health care, residential care, palliative care, chronic conditions and falls prevention. Current student topics include lifestyle and cognitive function in later life, dementia care environments, age-friendly communities and the driving cessation process.

Career pathways

A research degree can lead to a career in academia or to employment in education, government or the private sector.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

PhD: a 2.1 undergraduate degree and a master's degree; applicants with a UK first-class honours degree and no master's are considered individually. MPhil: an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or equivalent non-UK qualification). English language for international applicants: IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.5 (or recognised equivalent). One reference is required.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,006 a year (2025/26). UK student full-time annual rate (2025/26 entry point); part-time is half. Charged over the minimum candidature period. Bench fees may apply. Source

International applicants: GBP 21,950 a year (2026/27). Full-time (PhD, 3 years); year 1 Source

Intake: October, January, April or July

Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

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