Doctor of Applied Social Research at University of Stirling

Programme overview

The Doctor of Applied Social Research (DASR) is for experienced professionals from social science backgrounds, with tailored pathways in applied social science, criminal justice, dementia studies, social work, housing, substance use and family therapy. Research skills are applied in the workplace through a Professional Practice Project module; the course is linked to the ESRC Scottish Doctoral Training Centre.

Duration: Full-time: 36 to 48 months; part-time: 48 to 96 months | Intake: January 2027, September 2027, January 2028 | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Core modules build research skills, and each professional pathway offers specialist options from which two are chosen, for example Policy Analysis and Evaluation Research or Advanced Quantitative Data Analysis (Applied Social Science), and Criminological Perspectives or Rehabilitation and Criminal Justice Work (Criminal Justice). The Dementia Studies pathway is blended online and on-campus delivery.

Career pathways

The doctorate enhances career opportunities across the health, social care, welfare and justice sectors, and cutting-edge research skills are in demand in business and education.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Intended for experienced professionals: normally the equivalent of at least two years' appropriate professional experience and an honours or masters degree in a relevant social science from a UK university or equivalent. Credit may be awarded for previous study under SCQF guidelines. International applicants on a Student Visa cannot apply to the blended, part-time, online or distance-learning pathways. English language (international applicants): IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill. Pearson Test of English (Academic) 62 overall with 60 in each sub-skill. TOEFL exams taken before 21 January 2026: 88 overall with 20 in reading, 19 in writing, 19 in listening and 22 in speaking. TOEFL exams taken from 21 January 2026: 4.5 overall with no less than 4 in any band.

Domestic applicants: GBP 17,600 for the whole programme (2026/27). Full course fee, UK and Republic of Ireland students Source

International applicants: GBP 49,900 for the whole programme (2026/27). Full course fee, international (including EU) students Source

Intake: January 2027, September 2027, January 2028

Duration: Full-time: 36 to 48 months; part-time: 48 to 96 months

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