Social Sciences PhD

The School of Social Sciences has an exceptionally strong and interdisciplinary research culture, and offers expert supervision across a wide range of research topics. Our PhD programme is characterised by a strong focus on research training leading to theoretically-informed research that advances academic and policy debates. There are different options of study: 3-4 years full-time PhD, 5-7 years part-time PhD, 1-2 years full-time MPhil and 2-3 years part-time MPhil. The School of Social Sciences has the following research themes that represent the School’s main areas of expertise. There is also the opportunity for interdisciplinary research. We encourage applications in all these areas: Science, technology and risk, Crime, security and justice, Education and education policy, Health and social care, Inequality, labour and the future of work and People, place and policy. Research students join a vibrant academic and research environment with supervision by leading experts in their field. We are committed to theoretically informed research with a clear policy focus; and offer research opportunities for postgraduate study in sociology, social policy, criminology, science and technology studies, social work and education (see full list below). We welcome students who wish to pursue their studies in an interdisciplinary way. We collaborate with major universities and international agencies around the world, as well as with local policy makers and practitioners.

Candidates for PhD programmes should have a good first degree (2:1 and above) and/or a master’s degree. Candidates who do not have a master’s degree in Social Science Research Methods (SSRM) may be required to undertake some or all of the SSRM programme on the advice of their prospective supervisors. For overseas candidates, the minimum qualifications will include a good first degree equivalent to a 2:1 degree at a UK university, and a certificate of competence in English (see below). Work experience will also be taken into consideration when assessing an application. In the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, we normally expect applicants for PhD programmes to have an overall average grade of at least 60 in their Master's degree, with 60 or more in the dissertation, or to be able to demonstrate relevant professional experience. Applications from individuals from groups which are under-represented in postgraduate study will be considered on a case-by-case basis.