PhD Sociology at University of Gloucestershire

Programme overview

Join our supportive and expert community of researchers as a student on our MSc by Research or PhD programme. We produce innovative research offering insights and solutions for society’s most pressing challenges. We welcome proposals for research degrees on a wide range of sociological topics.

Faculty: School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences | Department: Sociological Sciences | Duration: PhD: 4 years full-time; PhD: 6 years part-time; MSc by Research: 2 years full-time; MSc by Research: 3 years part-time | Study mode: full-time, part-time, distance learning | Intake: October 2026; February 2027; October 2027; February 2028; October 2028 | Location: Cheltenham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students can study either full time or part time alongside employment or family commitments. In recognition of the fact that no two research projects – or research students – are the same, we offer a flexible approach to supporting you and you will have access to hot-desk office space and library and ICT support.

Career pathways

Our postgraduate research students cultivate a diverse set of skills that are highly valued in the UK and internationally, preparing them for successful careers within academia and beyond.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

MSc by Research At least a 2.1 honours degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject area. PhD A master’s degree or equivalent in a subject area relevant to the proposed research topic. MSc by Research/PhD diversity applications standard We strongly encourage applications from students from a range of diverse backgrounds who demonstrate appropriate research experience and achievement IELTS 6.5 (6.0 writing, 5.5 all other components) EU and international students need IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in any other component) or equivalent. Research proposal Your application should include a research proposal up to 1,000 words (excluding references/appendic

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,350 a year (2026/27). Annual tuition fee for the full-time option. Source

International applicants: GBP 13,425 a year (2026/27). Annual tuition fee for the full-time option. Source

Intake: October 2026; February 2027; October 2027; February 2028; October 2028

Duration: PhD: 4 years full-time; PhD: 6 years part-time; MSc by Research: 2 years full-time; MSc by Research:

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