PhD Postgraduate Research in Social Work and Social Care

1. Diverse Research Areas

PhD supervision is available in various topics related to Social Work and Social Care, providing flexibility for students to explore their specific areas of interest.

2. Flexible Study Options

The program accommodates full-time, part-time, mature professionals, and international students, offering flexibility in how students complete their research (typically full-time in three years or part-time in six years).

3. Expert Supervision

Students benefit from supervision by a team of experts with internationally recognized expertise in diverse research methodologies, ensuring high-quality academic guidance.

4. Interdisciplinary Approach

Research supervision is often interdisciplinary, with opportunities to explore intersections between Social Work, Education, Health, Sport, and Psychology, enhancing the breadth of research.

5. Dynamic Research Community

The Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing (FEHW) supports over 240 doctoral students across various disciplines, fostering a collaborative and diverse research environment.

6. Global Collaboration

The program works with local, regional, and international students, promoting a global perspective and international research connections.

7. Comprehensive Support and Resources

Students have access to a vibrant seminar and workshop calendar, as well as a broader university research community, providing ample opportunities for networking, learning, and professional development.

8. Theoretical Research Focus

The PhD is focused on theoretical research projects that aim to advance knowledge and understanding in Social Work and Social Care, influencing future research, education, and policy.v

• Become a leading expert in your chosen area of social work/care
• Qualify for academic teaching and research positions
• Enhance credibility as a consultant or practice leader
• Development of advanced research and analytical skills
• Contribute new knowledge to address complex social challenges
• Influence policy and practice through evidence-based research
• Deep engagement with current issues affecting vulnerable populations
• Ability to shape future directions in social work practice
• Develop advanced critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Build expertise in research methodologies

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed

 Applicants for a research degree shall normally hold either:

 • a first or upper second class honours degree, or

 • a master’s degree, or

 • evidence of prior practice or learning that is accepted by the Dean of Research.

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at least to the level of an IELTS score (or equivalent) of 7.0, with no individual element less than 6.0. The only exemption to this is for students who are not required to do so as per UKVI regulations: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/knowledge-of-english. 

 

Our students

Hear from Opeyemi Odejimi about her research in service users and carers and what they're brining into university as a whole.

 

Financial support for research study:

Before applying, you should consider carefully how you will finance your studies for the duration of your programme, including tuition fees, research support fees and living costs.

Government loans (Home Fee Status):

Government loans are available for postgraduate research students of up to £29,390, to cover fees and living expenses. More information can be found at Doctoral-loans website.

Studying in the UK:Guidance for EU students

For 2021/22 new entrants, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fee status and financial support from Student Finance England.

Self-funded:

We are able to take payments in instalments, to spread out the cost of your studies, and it is possible to switch between full-time and part-time modes of study. For more information go to How to pay.

Postgraduate Research Loyalty Discount:

To students progressing from an undergraduate programme and/or a taught postgraduate programme to a postgraduate research programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.

There is no time limit on how long ago you completed your degree and/or Masters level qualification, as long as the new award is at a higher level.

For full terms and conditions please see: Loyalty Discount for Postgraduate Research Students

Research councils:

The UK Research and Innovation funds postgraduate study in all subject areas on a discretionary basis.

University Research Studentships:

The University offers a very limited number of research stipends, formerly known as bursaries, to research students. Stipends are designed to support specific projects as determined by the Research Institute rather than individual student-led projects. Funds are accessible from the relevant Research Institute or Centre - please contact them directly.

Other sources:

Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Online

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