Public Policy (PhD) at University of Bristol

Programme overview

The PhD in Public Policy at the School for Policy Studies is a research programme designed to develop advanced analytical, methodological, and theoretical expertise for addressing complex policy challenges in a rapidly changing world. Located in the School for Policy Studies, candidates will join a community engaged in world-leading scholarship on policy processes, politics, governance and social justice. The programme provides a nurturing environment in which doctoral candidates undertake original research across key areas including policy analysis, design and implementation.

Department: School for Policy Studies | Duration: Up to four years full-time, up to eight years part-time | Study mode: full-time, part-time | Intake: We welcome new PhD students all year round. | Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom

Career pathways

Studying public policy equips students with a wide range of knowledge and skills across various interests and fields. As a result, studying public policy and developing skills in analysis and research is relevant to work in many different policy settings and subject areas.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree and a merit at MSc/MA level (or equivalent experience/qualification). English language: profile level B.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,343 a year (2027/28). full-time per year; 2027 entry, subject to annual review. Source

International applicants: GBP 22,500 a year (2027/28). full-time per year; 2027 entry, subject to annual review. Source

Intake: We welcome new PhD students all year round.

Duration: Up to four years full-time, up to eight years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/start-application/

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