Professional Doctorate in Social and Public Policy (SPPD) at Swansea University

Programme overview

A part-time professional doctorate, equivalent to a PhD but oriented to applied research, designed for experienced practitioners and managers at senior levels. It draws on education, politics, sociology, social policy, economics and philosophy and is delivered by blended in-person and online study.

Department: School of Social Sciences | Duration: 6 years part-time (minimum candidature six years; thesis submission by year seven) | Intake: October 2026 (October 2027 also listed) | Location: Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom

What you will study

A taught phase of five modules over three years covering the forefront of research and practice and advanced research methods, followed by a research phase producing a doctoral thesis defended in a viva voce examination.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Candidates should hold: at least 3 years of organisational experience, usually in a senior role; an undergraduate degree with a minimum of upper second class (2:1) or equivalent (other backgrounds and sector work experience may be considered in place of the degree); and a master's degree in a related discipline or equivalent professional qualification. Applications must include a CV and a proposal identifying a professional issue or problem that may form the basis of future research. Applicants are interviewed by the programme leadership team. English language: IELTS 7.0 overall with no individual component below 6.5, or a Swansea University recognised equivalent. Admissions decisions may also depend on the standard of the research synopsis or proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places and relevant professional experience.

Domestic applicants: GBP 2,575 a year (2026/27). Year 1 tuition, part-time; later years increase by 3% Source

International applicants: GBP 9,700 a year (2026/27). Year 1 tuition, part-time; later years increase by 3% Source

Intake: October 2026 (October 2027 also listed)

Duration: 6 years part-time (minimum candidature six years; thesis submission by year seven)

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