PhD Social & Public Health (Social Sciences) at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

This PhD is offered through the Social Scientists in Health research group, which welcomes applications on the social and cultural forces underpinning health, on culturally situated interventions to improve health and wellbeing, and on public policy as a determinant of health.

Department: Social Scientists in Health research group | Duration: 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Independent research leading to a thesis of 70,000-100,000 words and an oral examination (viva voce). Applicants from low- and middle-income countries are welcome and supervisors have experience of research taking students overseas.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Usually a Master's degree with a significant component in Social or Health Sciences; candidates are also usually expected to have a 2.1 honours degree. Work experience related to Social and Public Health may be considered for non-relevant degree subjects. Required documents: academic transcripts and degree certificate(s), CV, research proposal, two references and named supervisor information. International applicants from non-English-speaking countries: IELTS Academic 7.0 overall with no subtest below 6.5 (TOEFL iBT 98 overall for tests from 21 January 2026, PTE Academic test centre 70 overall with component minimums; other tests accepted); tests must be within 2 years 5 months of the start date.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). UK fee for 2026/27 as stated; 2027/28 UK fee to be confirmed; part-time is half the full-time fee Source

International applicants: GBP 28,275 a year (2027/28). International & EU full-time annual tuition fee; part-time is half the full-time fee; bench fees not included Source

Intake: September

Duration: 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time

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