PhD Social Policy at University of Essex

Programme overview

The PhD in Social Policy offers research opportunities on the development and implementation of social policy, why policies work or fail, and relationships between groups in the policy process. Students have access to Masters-level research methods modules and the Proficio research training scheme.

Department: School of Health and Social Care | Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time (3 years full-time or 6 years part-time, up to one year for completion) | Intake: January 2027 | Study mode: full-time; part-time | Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students undertake supervised research and a 40,000-word dissertation on a subject relevant to their specialist area, supported by dissertation workshops.

Career pathways

Graduates have taken up clinical and management posts in NHS Trusts, hospitals and care organisations, and in local and county councils.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A Masters degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline such as a health science or a social science, or evidence of advanced research skills developed through an alternative route, plus a well-developed research proposal. Applicants are normally interviewed, and acceptance depends on research expertise in the department. English language (international applicants): IELTS 6.5 overall, or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year. Home/UK fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

International applicants: GBP 20,625 a year. International fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

Intake: January 2027

Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time (3 years full-time or 6 years part-time, up to one year for completion)

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