social work phd scholarships uk

Cookies on our website

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use our site. And we'd like to serve you some cookies set by other services to show you relevant content.

Social Work and Social Care PhD

Key information.

• 100%  of our research impact in Social Work and Social Policy was assessed to be world leading or internationally excellent  (REF 2021)  

From theory and practice in wellbeing to the challenges of social work practice in safeguarding, mental health, adoption and reflective practice to the exploration of extraordinary childhoods, digital childhoods and emotional lives – you’ll work with experts in their fields in a vibrant interdisciplinary research community.

Areas of study

We host three research centres:

• Centre for Innovation and Research in Adult Wellbeing
• Centre for Innovation and Research in Childhood and Youth  (jointly hosted by the Department of Education and the Department of Social Work and Social Care)
• Centre for Social Work Innovation and Research.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Masters and P h D events

Meet us on campus or online

Book your place

Entry requirements

• UK requirements
• International requirements

Please select your country from the list.

Philippines

Saudi arabia, south africa, south korea, switzerland, united arab emirates, my country is not listed.

If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us

English language requirements

Ielts (academic).

Advanced level (7.0 overall, including at least 6.5 in each component).

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.  Find out more about IELTS

We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

We do not accept IELTS Online.

Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests, cambridge advanced certificate in english (cae).

176 overall, including at least 169 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

Advanced level (International ESOL SELT C1 with a minimum of 33 in each component)

LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

Pearson PTE Academic

Advanced level (67 overall, including at least 62 in all four skills)

PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

TOEFL (iBT)

Advanced level 95 overall, including at least 22 in Listening, 23 in Reading, 23 in Speaking, 24 in Writing. 

TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.

English language qualifications

As/a-level (gce).

Grade C or above in English Language.

Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.

GCE O-level

Grade C or above in English.

Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

GCSE or IGCSE

Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).

Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.

Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate

If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.

If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.

Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)

The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only:  70%

Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English:  70% 

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

English A or English B at grade 5 or above.

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education

Grades A - C in English language

Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level

If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.

If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.

The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

West African Senior School Certificate

Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).

Country exceptions

Select to see the list of exempt english-speaking countries.

If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

List of exempt countries: 

• Antigua and Barbuda
• New Zealand
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• The British Overseas Territories
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Kingdom

** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

English language support

If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

• Visas and immigration

Admissions information for applicants

If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

• How to apply

If you’d like to join us as a research student, there are two main routes:

• browse funded projects in this subject area
• browse our potential supervisors and propose your own research project.

Find out how to apply for a PhD at Sussex

Full-time and part-time study

Choose to work on your research full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. For details about part-time study, contact us at [email protected]

Our supervisors

Dr Rachel Burr

Senior Lecturer in Education

[email protected]

View profile of Rachel Burr

Dr Tam Cane

Senior Lecturer

[email protected]

View profile of Tam Cane

Dr Henglien Lisa Chen

Senior Lecturer in Social Work

[email protected]

View profile of Henglien Lisa Chen

Dr Jeri L. Damman

[email protected]

View profile of Jeri L. Damman

Prof Kristine Langhoff

Professor of Social Work

[email protected]

View profile of Kristine Langhoff

Prof Michelle Lefevre

[email protected]

View profile of Michelle Lefevre

Dr Reima Ana Maglajlic

Reader in Social Work

[email protected]

View profile of Reima Ana Maglajlic

Dr David Orr

[email protected]

View profile of David Orr

Prof Gillian Ruch

[email protected]

View profile of Gillian Ruch

Prof Elaine Sharland

Professor of Social Work Research

[email protected]

View profile of Elaine Sharland

Prof Rachel Thomson

Professor of Childhood & Youth Studies

[email protected]

View profile of Rachel Thomson

Prof Charles Watters

Professor of Wellbeing and Social Care

[email protected]

View profile of Charles Watters

Dr Russell Whiting

Senior Lecturer in Social Work and Care

[email protected]

View profile of Russell Whiting

Funding and fees

How can i fund my course, funded projects and scholarships.

Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals. Don’t miss out on scholarships – check the specific application deadlines for funding opportunities. Note that funded projects aren’t available for all our PhDs.

£3,000 scholarships available to environmental influencers bringing about real-world behaviour change

Find out more

£800 scholarship available to reward talented organ player studying on any course at Sussex.

5 scholarships of £800 are available to reward talented musicians studying on any course at Sussex

Cash scholarships available for students who have demonstrated sporting excellence

University of Sussex Stuart Hall Doctoral Scholarship

Up to 10 scholarships for outstanding PhD students holding China Scholarship Council awards

Applying for USA Federal Student Aid?

If any part of your funding, at any time, is through USA federal Direct Loan funds, you will be registered on a separate version of this degree which does not include the possibility of distance learning which is prohibited under USA federal regulations. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid .

Part-time work

We advertise around 2,500 part-time jobs a year so you can make money and gain work experience. We have a special scheme to employ students on campus, wherever possible.

Find out more about careers and employability

How much does it cost?

Fees for self-funding students.

Home students: £4,786 per year for full-time students

Channel Islands and Isle of Man students: £4,786 per year for full-time students

International students: £21,500 per year for full-time students

Home PhD student fees are set at the level recommended by United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) annually, rising in line with inflation. Overseas fees are subject to an annual increase - see details on our tuition fees page

Additional costs

Note about additional costs.

Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life .

Empirical research costs

On top of your PhD fees and living costs, you may also need to cover some research and training costs, relevant to your research project. These costs will depend on your research topic and training needs, but may include: - travel (to archives, collections or scientific facilities) - a laptop - overseas fieldwork costs (travel and accommodation, and language training) - conference costs (travel, registration fees and accommodation) - laboratory consumables and workshop materials - participant costs - transcription or translation costs - open-access publication costs. If you have a scholarship from one of the UK Research Councils, your scholarship should cover these types of costs. You'll receive details of how to claim this additional funding. If you're self funded, or if your scholarship doesn’t cover these costs, check with the Research and Enterprise Co-ordinator in your School for details of School or Doctoral School funding that may be available.

• Living costs

Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex

Find out about our terms and conditions

Explore our campus

Experience Sussex life in our virtual tour.

Start your virtual tour

PhD Information Sessions

Visit campus and chat to staff and students. Book your place

Online PhD Sessions

Join a live webchat. Book your place

International

Meet us in your country

Course enquiries

+44 (0)1273 876787

Send us a message

Admissions enquiries

If you haven’t applied yet:

+44 (0)1273 678464 eswpgradmin@​sussex.ac.uk

Find out about the School of Education and Social Work

After you’ve applied:

+44 (0)1273 877773 [email protected]

Find out how to apply

Quick links

• Guide to PhD study
• PhD support
• Academic facilities
• Open Days and events
• Accommodation
• International students
• Student life
• Order a printed prospectus

What do you want to do next?

• Courses Browse our courses by subject area
• Sussex Life Find out about life at Sussex
• Visit Come to a PhD Open Evening
• Apply Find out how to apply

• Schools & departments

Social Work PhD

Awards: PhD

Study modes: Full-time, Part-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Social Work

Discovery Day

Join us online on 18th April to learn more about postgraduate study at Edinburgh

View sessions and register

Research profile

Our social work researchers lead the field in a range of key social work research domains including mental health, children and their families, forced migration and refugees, and criminal justice. We have excellent links with leading professional bodies, policy-making organisations and professional and social work services in statutory and voluntary sectors throughout Scotland, the UK and internationally.

Specifically, we also have a number of partnerships with agencies and organisations providing social work in the Global South.

The research interests of staff cover the full range of applied service specialisms, theoretical issues and research methods. This includes expertise in:

longitudinal research

documentary analysis

discourse analysis

narrative and biographical methods

qualitative enquiry

evaluation approaches.

Our work is enriched by the perspective of both international students and UK/EU students, including individuals who are experienced professionals studying part-time while working.

Programme structure

Social work research offers a wide variety of methods and topics, often geared at understanding the experiences of those who are disadvantaged, alongside exploring challenges in social work practice, or contemporary social problems.

While many of our students are qualified social workers, we also have a large number of students who are not social workers, but study issues relevant to society, and policy and practice related to social work.

Many research students collaborate with practitioners or policy-makers in the development or undertaking of their research, embedding their work in the realities of professional practice.

The potential to undertake cutting-edge research on contemporary real-world problems makes this programme an exciting opportunity to generate knowledge that may offer solutions to the challenges faced by individuals, families and communities.

Find out more about compulsory and optional courses

We link to the latest information available. Please note that this may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.

Training and support

Together with students in all disciplines across the School, you will undertake research methods courses in first year (and second year if part-time) before proceeding with your thesis.

Each student has two supervisors with the possibility of the second supervisor coming from an outside discipline.

There are weekly group seminars for our PhD community which include staff, students and visiting scholars. Students are also invited to take park in method workshops and have opportunities to link into special interest groups in the wider School of Social and Political Science (see for example the RaceED and GenderEd). Staff also play leadership roles in a range of innovate research hubs and Centres (see for example the Binks Hub and the ACRC), bringing opportunities for PhD students to be involved in other research projects and knowledge exchange initiatives.

During the year you will also have the opportunity to participate in the annual University of Edinburgh Social Work Research Conference.

For more information about the range of courses on offer to our PhD students, go to:

• Postgraduate research courses

You can take advantage of our world-class library resources and can also access the National Library collections.

There are shared working spaces for PhD students within the School of Social and Political Science.

We promote the work of our students on social media.

You can follow our department on Twitter, and read about some current research projects on our subject area blog.

• University of Edinburgh Social Work Twitter account
• Social Work at the University of Edinburgh blog

PhD Social Work student story: Making a difference

Entry requirements.

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent, and a UK masters degree with an overall mark of 65% or its international equivalent.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 169 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 59 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

Tuition fees, scholarships and funding, featured funding.

School of Social and Political Science Scholarships

UK Research Council Awards

For specialised guidance on submitting a competitive scholarship application, please follow the requirements and recommendations and how to contact relevant academic staff as advised here:

• Important information and recommendations

(Revised 10 November 2023 to update featured funding opportunities)

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Postgraduate Admissions Team
• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4086
• Contact: [email protected]
• Programme Advisor, Dr Robin Sen
• Contact: [email protected]
• Graduate School of Social & Political Science
• Chrystal Macmillan Building
• 15A George Square
• Central Campus
• Programme: Social Work
• School: Social & Political Science
• College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

PhD Social Work - 3 Years (Full-time)

Phd social work - 6 years (part-time), application deadlines.

We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible.

• How to apply

You must submit two references with your application.

You must submit a research proposal demonstrating your knowledge of your field of research, which will be closely scrutinised as part of the decision-making process. We request that PhD research proposals are no more than four A4 typed pages in Times New Roman, 12pt font. This includes charts and figures but does not include references or a bibliography.

We require PhD applicants in particular to contact potential supervisors before applying to discuss their research proposal so we can ensure there is adequate supervision.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

Social Work

PhD Social Work

A PhD in Social Work equips students with the skills and experience to apply social research methods and tools to critically examine some of the most pressing contemporary issues in social work practice, policy and education. Students are encouraged to develop a topic of interest that directly relates to their own practice experiences or is of wider interest and relevance to the delivery of social work services and support to disadvantaged individuals and groups, either in the UK or overseas.

Students will be supported to develop research questions and design a study that enables them to rigorously research their topic of interest and make an original contribution to the knowledge base of social work. Topics may directly explore practice issues or contribute more broadly to social work knowledge, working with specific groups and communities and addressing systems of inequality and social disadvantage. Where appropriate, students are encouraged to work in collaboration with relevant organisations and user and interest groups to ensure their research outputs and key findings can directly inform social work practice and service delivery.

We are a multidisciplinary, research-intensive school which brings together theory, policy and practice. Our research engages with and influences national and international policy. Our policy experts come from a wide variety of backgrounds in social policy research, social work, sociology, gender violence, childhood studies, disability studies, health and social care, history, human geography, economics, psychology, physical activity, nutrition and health sciences, urban studies, and poverty, based within seven specialist research centres.

Supervisors in social work bring diverse interests across child and family social work (for example, looked after children; adoption and fostering; supporting parents with substance misuse or learning disabilities; domestic violence responses and interventions) and adult social care (for example, disabled adults' social care needs; housing and homelessness; mental health social work; social work with older people and carers; inclusive service provision for LGBTQ+ individuals).

The school is an exciting environment for postgraduate studies; we welcome students from the UK and abroad to join our diverse and highly-rated research team. We particularly welcome applications on topics with direct relevance to national and international social work and policy concerns.

World-leading research

The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK ( Times Higher Education ).

94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.

Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree and a pass at MSc/MA level (or equivalent experience/qualification).

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.

If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our  profile level C.

Further information about  English language requirements and profile levels .

Fees and funding

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support .

Alumni discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study.  Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.

Funding for 2024/25

The Faculty of Social Sciences and Law has an allocation of 1+3 and +3 ESRC SWDTP scholarships . Applicants may also be interested in applying for funding from the University of Bristol scholarship fund and the alumni PhD scholarship fund.

For details and deadlines of ESRC PhD studentship applications, please visit the SWDTP website .

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career prospects

Studying social work will equip you with a wide range of skills across a broad spectrum of interests and fields. The skills in analysis and research you will develop are relevant to vocational or non-vocational work in many different settings.

Previous graduates have gone on to have careers in higher education, policy-related fields, local government, other public sector bodies and third sector organisations. Careers have included those related to health and welfare, social work practice, academic posts, community work, the criminal justice system, management and research consultancy.

Meet our supervisors

The following list shows potential supervisors for this programme. Visit their profiles for details of their research and expertise.

Research groups

The school houses seven specialist research centres:

• Centre for Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences Staff in the Centre for Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences conduct research focusing on physical activity and nutrition, and their associations with health across the lifespan. The primary areas of focus include biomedical, psychosocial and socio-environmental aspects of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and nutrition.
• Children and Families Research Centre This centre is a hub for research and training in child welfare, family policy, social work and young people's relationships. Our members have backgrounds in social policy, social work, psychology and sociology. We have strong national and international links with child welfare academics, policy makers, practitioners and service users.
• Centre for Gender and Violence Research The centre is a leading site for the study of gender-based violence. Members have a long history of researching violence against women and gender-based violence in different contexts. This includes theoretical and empirical studies and evaluations of policy and practice locally, nationally and internationally. Our research covers victims/survivors, perpetrators, children, agency approaches and international comparisons using a gendered analysis.
• Centre for Research in Health and Social Care This centre focuses on both applied and theoretical research into key health issues at national and international level. There are currently around 30 staff and postgraduate students working across a wide spectrum of research areas: inter-professional and inter-agency work, evidence-based care, health inequality, mental health and health issues relating to ageing, children and gender.
• Centre for the Study of Poverty and Social Justice (including the Townsend Centre for International Poverty Research ) The centre was formed in 1998 to provide a more integrative perspective on existing scholarships in criminal justice, socio-legal studies, poverty and social exclusion. Our members come from a wide range of disciplines and have expertise in a number of policy areas, with particular strengths in data analysis and social statistics. We aim to promote a supportive arena for critical national and international analysis and research into monitoring the nature and extent of poverty, social exclusion and injustice.
• Centre for Urban and Public Policy Research Research at the Centre for Urban and Public Policy Research is concerned with governance, housing, citizenship, globalisation and the transformation of social and economic life in cities. Centre members come from the disciplines of economics, social policy, history, geography, social economics and social work. We combine interests in theoretical approaches to social and urban theory with practical involvement in current issues of policy in the UK and across the world. Our staff members have active research links with institutions in east and south-east Asia, the European Union and Europe, particularly the Balkan countries. This results in work with a strong international and comparative dimension, which we see as one of our key strengths.
• Norah Fry Research Centre The Norah Fry Research Centre is a leading international centre specialising in research with and for disabled adults, children and their families. The centre is known for its work to include people with learning disabilities in the research process, as well as the development of accessible, easy-to-understand information and the dissemination of research findings in multiple formats to different audiences.

How to apply

Apply today via our online application system. For further information, please see the guidance for how to apply on our webpages.

We welcome applications at any time of year; early application is advised.

For China Scholarship Commission funding, the programme application deadline is 4 December 2023. For SWDTP (South West Doctoral Training Partnership) funding, the programme application deadline is 4 December 2023. For University of Bristol studentship funding, the programme application deadline is 19 February 2024.

Senior Postgraduate Admissions Administrator

Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

School for Policy Studies

Explore more

Find out about the bristol doctoral college.

• School of Social Work Scholarships

Postgraduate, Undergraduate and International

• Faculties and Schools
• Faculty of Social Sciences
• School of Social Work
• Funding Your Studies
• Study with Us
• Continuing Professional Development Programmes
• Centre for Research on Children and Families
• Careers and Employability
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

School of Social Work Scholarships

Scholarships are available for UK, EU and International undergraduate and postgraduate applicants to courses in the School of Social Work. 

Use the  Scholarship Finder  to explore UEA wide scholarships.

Postgraduate Social Work Scholarships

10% alumni tuition fee discount scheme, 30% final year undergraduate continuation scholarship, bright futures postgraduate scholarship, undergraduate social work scholarships, international social work scholarships.

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

PhD/MPhil Social Work / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

We require:

• An honours degree (minimum Upper Second (2:1)) or the overseas equivalent in a relevant subject
• AND a very good MSc/MPhil/MRes degree from a recognised institution
• OR satisfactory work at postgraduate level (which must include some research training) undertaken for the equivalent of at least one year full-time.

NB In exceptional circumstances, we may consider an application from a student without both an undergraduate and post-graduate degree. For example, if they have a first/distinction and research experience. 

The  four-year programme is strongly recommended for anyone who:

• has not studied in the UK before;
• has not completed specific research methods training at master's level and received 'very good' grades;
• has not completed a research dissertation at master's level and received 'very good' grades;
• has not scored at least 6.5 in all areas of the IELTS (or equivalent) if English is not their first language.

For students who which to study via distance learning there are additional criteria to support effective communication, for more information please see entry requirements section.

Full entry requirements

See full guidance on how to choose a project and submit an application on our websi te . You should then complete the online admissions application form to apply for this programme. Ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, or this may delay the processing of your application.

Application deadlines

You must submit your application for a postgraduate research programme before the relevant deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after these deadlines have passed.

• January entry: 15 October (of the year prior entry)
• April entry: 15 January (year of entry)
• September entry: 15 June (year of entry)

Programme options

Programme overview.

• Learn from some of Europe's leading researchers while undertaking your own project.
• Access some of the best research facilities in the world at both the University and in hospitals around Greater Manchester.
• Undergo training in transferable skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals through the Doctoral Academy's training programme.
• Conduct research at a university ranked 6th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2023).

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250
• PhD (full-time distance learning) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time distance learning) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

• Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

School for Business and Society

PhD and MPhil in Social Policy and Social Work

Directly influence social policy and social work practice, joining a vibrant community of researchers to progress in your career.

Show year of entry 2022/23 page

Join a vibrant community which emphasises theoretically-rich and empirically-grounded research that directly influences policy and practice.

The city of York has a long tradition as a leading voice for social reform. At York, you'll join doctoral students from across the globe pushing conceptual, methodological and theoretical dimensions of social policy and social work.

You will belong to the  White Rose Social Sciences Doctoral Training Centre  (DTC) with its extended networks and training events. You'll have access to desk space and computing facilities at the  Research Centre for the Social Sciences (RCSS), which is a hub for interdisciplinary research and postgraduate life in the social sciences at York. 

Your research

Achieving a PhD in Social Policy and Social Work at the University of York will require you to undertake an independent research project collecting new material or offering new analysis of existing data. Conceptual and theoretical approaches may also be considered, but must contribute more than a synthesis of existing literature.

The PhD is awarded on production of a written thesis of a minimum of 70,000 words and no longer than 100,000 including references but excluding appendices, and subject to an oral examination (viva).

[email protected] +44 (0)1904 321228

Related links

• Fees and funding
• International students
• Visiting research students
• How to apply
• Writing up year
• Accommodation
• Life at York

11th in the UK

For research power in social policy and social work in the Times Higher Education ranking of the latest REF results (2021).

Culture of inclusivity

At the School for Business and Society, we offer dedicated in-house student support and we're proud of our two Bronze Athena Swan Awards, recognising our work to promote gender equality.

Explore Business and Society funding for MPhil/PhD researchers and wider postgraduate support. We also have ESRC White Rose Social Sciences scholarship funding available for research students.

Our research

We are a world class research community well known for its emphasis on theoretically-rich and empirically-grounded research.

Supervision

We are able to offer supervision in a wide range of areas, largely focused around the following topics: 

• Childhood, youth and family
• Welfare and poverty
• Mental health
• Comparative and global social policy
• Health and social care

Consider how your research interests complement our expertise and knowledge. Find out more about our supervisors , our research and current doctoral students .

Before you apply you may find it useful to contact Dr Ziyun Fan  for an informal discussion about your topic and potential supervisors. 

Course location

This course is run by the School for Business and Society.

You will be based in the  School for Business and Society which is based on  Campus West.  Most of your training and supervision meetings will take place here, though your research may take you further afield.

You should live in or near York during your PhD programme, whether part-time or full-time. We do not offer distance learning arrangements.

Entry requirements

You will be normally expected to hold an 2:1 or First Class Honours degree. However if you have other relevant experience you may still be considered.

If you wish to pursue research on a social work topic, you should also have a good background in social work theory and practice. Likewise, if you wish to do research in social policy, you should have a firm background in the subject. 

Applicants are expected to have a good grounding in research methods.

English requirements

If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of your ability.

English language requirements

Both our PhD and MPhil courses can be completed either full-time or part-time although some overseas students maybe required to undertake full-time study.

Apply for the PhD in Social Policy and Social Work

Apply for the MPhil in Social Policy and Social Work

Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.

Find out more about how to apply .

Research proposal

In order to assess your application, you must submit a proposal of 3,000 words, using the headings indicated below.

If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to attend an online interview. It is important that you can demonstrate an understanding of your topic area, its supporting theories and knowledge around current research.

Discover York

We offer a range of campus accommodation to suit you and your budget, from economy to deluxe.

Discover more about our researchers, facilities and why York is the perfect choice for your research degree.

Graduate Research School

Connect with researchers across all disciplines to get the most out of your research project.

Meet us online or on campus

Find out all you need to know about applying to York

Scholarships

Find scholarships to support your studies

Create profile

Like courses

Apply direct

Create your IDP profile

To continue your research, create your profile with IDP. Your profile allows you to:

• Apply direct to courses and receive a response within the same day
• Shortlist and save courses
• Get the AI course recomendations
• Access our cost of living calculator

Match with universities

Now create a profile

Create a profile and start liking courses. We’ll show you recommendations that match what you’re looking for.

Your password must include

• One upper case letter
• One lower case letter
• One special character
• At least 8 characters
• IDP Education
• Scholarships

United Kingdom Postgraduate Social Work scholarships for Global students

Filter scholarship (4) Start a new search

Subject area, specific subject area 1 selected.

• Political Science and Policy Studies
• PPE (Philosopy, Politics, Economics)
• International Relations
• International Studies
• Studies in Human Society
• International Affairs
• Political Science
• Social Justice
• Behavioural Science
• Social Science
• Gender Studies
• Anthropology
• Religious Studies
• Social Work
• Other Political Science and Social Studies

Study destination 1 selected

• New Zealand
• United Kingdom

Study level 1 selected

• Postgraduate
• Undergraduate

Institution Any

• University of Strathclyde
• University of Bristol
• University of East Anglia
• Oxford Brookes University
• University of York
• Robert Gordon University

Select subject area Selecting a new subject will reset your search and filters

• Agriculture Sciences
• All Accounting
• All Geography
• All Human Welfare Studies And Services
• All Pharmacy
• Art and Design
• Biological and life Sciences
• Building and Architecture
• Computing and IT
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Health and Medicine
• Hospitality and Tourism
• Information Science and Librarianship
• Language and Culture
• Law and Legal Studies
• Marketing, Media and Communication
• Mechanic and Repair Technologies
• Multidisciplinary Studies
• Performing Arts and Music
• Political and Social Sciences
• Teaching and Education

Humanities and Social Sciences International Postgraduate Taught Performan...

Glasgow , United Kingdom

Qualification

Funding Type

Other Discount

Humanities and Social Sciences RUK Postgraduate Taught Performance Sport S...

GREAT Scholarship

Banbury , United Kingdom

Fee waiver/discount

17 May 2024

International Scholarships

31 Jul 2024

Think Big About Social Work Postgraduate Scholarship

Bristol , United Kingdom

29 Apr 2024

Dean's International Excellence Awards

Tuition fee reduction of 25% for nhs employees.

The Susan Justice Scholarship

Norwich , United Kingdom

31 May 2024

Maria Bourboulis Scholarship

York , United Kingdom

Free products/services

Think Big Postgraduate Award

Showing 1-10 of 11 courses

• 1 (current)
• Postgraduate Political Science and Policy Studies scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate PPE (Philosopy, Politics, Economics) scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate International Relations scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate International Studies scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Studies in Human Society scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate International Affairs scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Political Science scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Social Justice scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Behavioural Science scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Social Science scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Gender Studies scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Anthropology scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Religious Studies scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Sociology scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Humanities scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Other Political Science and Social Studies scholarship in United Kingdom
• Doctorate Social Work scholarship in United Kingdom
• Undergraduate Social Work scholarship in United Kingdom
• Postgraduate Social Work scholarship in Australia
• Postgraduate Social Work scholarship in Canada
• Postgraduate Social Work scholarship in Ireland
• Postgraduate Social Work scholarship in New Zealand
• Search for courses
• Find a university
• Find a scholarship

Please select a level of study

Enter subject, choose from the list or hit search

Start typing, choose from the list or hit search

Enter subject, choose from the list or or hit search

Please type and select an institution

Type 3 characters of a university name and select from the list

Enter a university or school name and select from the list

Got any ideal countries in mind?

No Event Found.

Let’s get started

Sign up or login in with one click, sign up or login to save your courses, let's get started with "shortlist".

Your profile page will have the liked courses.

has been saved to your shortlist

View your shortlist or close this box to continue researching.

• Courses for you

School of Social and Political Science

School of social and political science phd scholarship.

The scholarship application system for academic year 2024/25 closed at 23:59 (GMT) on Thursday, 1st February 2024. Late applications cannot be accepted.

As a guide to competition levels, in the 2023/24 cycle 123 applicants (future students) applied for 2 scholarships, and 17 applicants (current students) applied for 1 scholarship. The number of available awards may change each year. For 2024/25 we are offering a minimum of 1 School of SPS PhD Scholarship to future students, and 1 School of SPS PhD Scholarship to current students. 

This award will support you to be part of the next generation of social science thought leaders. It is available to students researching any area within the School of Social and Political Science.

Please note these scholarships are only for PhD study, not for MSc by Research study.

These awards are available both to students intending to begin PhD study in the next academic year and to students currently in Year 1 (full-time equivalent) of their PhD in the School (if successful this will be a two-year award, full-time equivalent).

These awards are available to all areas of research within the School of Social and Political Science.

When making decisions, the Selection Committee will consider:

• the applicant's academic achievements
• research proposal
• research potential
• any publications made
• any relevant non-academic experience
• the degree of support provided by references

Financial status and nationality are not taken into account.

Please ensure you read the self-assessment  section to ensure you meet all the criteria as the application process is very competitive.

The award covers:

• Full tuition fees (UK, EU or Overseas level)
• The stipend will be set to the UKRI level for 2024/25. The UKRI level for 2023/24 is currently £18,622 for full-time students, or the pro rata equivalent for part-time students.

Awards for new students are made for one year in the first instance and are renewable for up to a further two years (pro-rata for part-time students), subject to satisfactory academic progress. 

PhD students in the School of Social and Political Science can apply to the  PGR Research Support Fund  for help with fieldwork and other research-related costs throughout their period of study, providing they meet the fund's eligibility criteria. SPS PhD scholars may apply for this fund.

In order to gain access to the scholarship application system, applicants must have applied for admission to the University of Edinburgh.  Applicants must submit two separate applications by the deadline:

• Application for admission to a PhD degree in the School of Social and Political Science (must be submitted at least 5 working days before the scholarship deadline )
• School of Social and Political Science PhD Scholarship application

Updated or additional documents or information for your PhD programme application cannot be accepted after you have received an offer for the programme. Before then, any updated or additional documents must be uploaded directly to your PhD application via your MyEd account.

Updated or additional documents or information for your scholarship application cannot be accepted after you have submitted your scholarship application.

Late applications cannot be accepted.

Ensure you visit the Important Information and Recommendations section before you apply. We consider this section to be essential reading.

The scholarship award application process involves two main applications:

• Apply for your chosen PhD degree programme
• Apply for your chosen scholarship

Application for admission to a PhD degree

Please note: you will only be able to apply for a scholarship after you have submitted an application for a PhD programme.  

The application to study is made via the University's online applications system EUCLID.

You must submit a full application by the deadline, including:

• final or interim official undergraduate and postgraduate transcripts (note - PhD Social Anthropology applications require undergraduate only)
• name of proposed supervisor

References and research proposal for the application to study are also used for the scholarship application and will be automatically pulled through to the scholarship system.

The application to study must be submitted at least 5 working days prior to the scholarship application deadline. This allows your University Username (UUN eg s1234567) to be activated in time for you to submit your scholarship application before its deadline.

You do not need to wait to receive an offer to study before applying for the 'SPS PhD Scholarship' - but you must submit a complete application to study by the deadline or your 'SPS PhD Scholarship' application will not be considered.

Please note that the 'SPS PhD Scholarship' application is extremely competitive, and every year demand far outstrips supply. 

For further information on PhD study please see our  PhD Programmes  webpage.

For further information on the application process, please see our  how to apply  page.

Application for SPS PhD Scholarship

Once you have submitted your application for study, you can then submit your funding application(s). You must submit a separate application for each individual funding scheme you are applying to.

Application to the SPS PhD Scholarship for future students is via the University's online scholarships application form located within the EUCLID applicant hub.

After submitting your application for your programme of study, you will receive a University Username (UUN) and access to MyEd where you can reach the scholarship application system.

Before applying, please read the  self-assessment page , which provides helpful information about the factors that help make a successful application.

Please note that applications for the 'SPS PhD Scholarship' are extremely competitive, and every year demand far outstrips supply. 

Supporting documents

The supporting documents submitted with your application to study (research proposal, academic transcripts and references etc.) will be used to assess your funding application.

Research proposal

We recommend you follow the guidance on writing research proposals.

Personal statement

The scholarship application system will ask you to provide a personal statement (up to 500 words/3,500 characters including spaces).

We are interested in you as a whole person, not just academically. Please tell us about your preparedness to undertake and complete a PhD and to flourish as a result of PhD funding, and how you will contribute to a positive and diverse PhD community within the School. This could include diversity of identity, experience, or viewpoint. You may also wish to include any experience of overcoming adversity.

Conditional offers

If you are in receipt of conditional offer (including conditional on English language), you are still eligible to apply for the 'SPS PhD Scholarship'.

Should you receive an award, but not meet the conditions of your offer, they would not be able to take up the award.

Help and guidance

Information on the Student Systems website may help you with guidance on the scholarship application system.

Applying for a postgraduate scholarship

Technical support and guidance

You can also view our applying for scholarships frequently asked questions: 

Frequently asked questions - applying for scholarships in the MyEd portal

Postgraduate Advisors and supporting Subject Area academics assess scholarship applications for their Subject Areas.

Scholarship applicants are then ranked and the top candidates are put forward to the next stage. Applicants not progressing to Stage Two will be notified by the end of April.

A   panel of assessors, comprising of the Director and Deputy Director of Postgraduate Research Programmes and at least one other senior School academic, assess all ranked scholarship applicants and rank them individually.

The ranks are then collated, and agreement on awards, reserves, and unsuccessful applicants are documented, with notifications emailed to applicants. Awardees are given 7 calendar days to respond to the scholarship offer. If no response is received by the given date, the offer will be rescinded and awarded to the next reserve candidate.

Assessors will use the  SGSSS Marking Framework for their ranking process in both stages.

The School selection panel will meet in the Spring, and results will be communicated to candidates by email shortly thereafter.

Note that we also hold a reserve list; in the event that a successful candidate later declines their award, for example because they obtain different funding. In this case, the award will be offered to the top candidate on the reserve list. 

We aim to have contacted all SPS PhD Scholarship candidates to let them know the outcome of their application by the end of May.

Due to the volume of applications we receive and the lengthy assessment and ranking process, we are unable to answer individual responses until then.

This funding form is also used for several other awards, including:

• Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarships - SPS
• 'CAHSS Research Award - SPS'
• Alice Brown PhD Scholarship
• Chrystal Macmillan PhD Scholarship
• Macqueen Scholarship

Important - please ensure you check each scholarship deadline as they may differ.

You must enter a separate funding application for each award you wish to be considered for.

Year 1 full-time PhD students already at the School of Social and Political Science would, if successful, receive two years' funding to the end of the Prescribed Period of Study.

Part-time current PhD students would receive the pro-rata amount to the end of their Prescribed Period of Study.

Application is via your  MyEd account . The scholarship application section for current students is via the MyEd 'Student Self-Service' channel.

Details on how to find the scholarship section can be found on the Student Systems website.

Applying for a scholarship through MyEd Student Self-Service channel

Academic references

The default position is that we will look at the two references and your original research proposal provided on your EUCLID application for PhD study.

However, we would recommend that current Year 1 (full-time equivalent) students request assistance from their supervisors, who can comment on your progress to date, to provide updated references (maximum of 2 new references). 

These can be emailed to the PGR Support team ( [email protected] ) by either yourself or your referee no later than the scholarship closing date. Guidance for referees can be found in our request for an academic or non-academic reference document .

Please ensure you name the scholarship you are applying for and provide your UUN in the email.

We also strongly advise that you update your  research proposal  (three to four pages). These must be emailed (from your University account) to the PGR Support team ( [email protected] ) no later than the scholarship closing date.

The scholarship application system will ask you to provide a personal statement (up to 500 words/3500 characters including spaces).

• Social Work

Social Work Scholarships for International Students

Here is the list of Social Work scholarships for International students 2024 - 2025. Please check out following scholarships below.

Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa International Scholarship 2024 in New Zealand

• Partial Funding
• Victoria University of Wellington
• Masters, Postgraduate
• International Students
• New Zealand

This is a Masters, Postgraduate scholarships for International Students at Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand. Students interested in are advised to apply for Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa International Scholarship 2024 in New Zealand.

University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship 2024 in New Zealand

• Partial Funding (Up to $10,000 for either postgraduate study or undergraduate study)
• University of Auckland
• Undergraduate, Postgraduate

This is a Undergraduate, Postgraduate scholarships for International Students at University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. Students interested in are advised to apply for University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship 2024 in New Zealand.

Australia Awards Scholarships for International Students 2024

• Fully Funded
• Australian Universities
• All Subjects
• International Students, Australia Awards Approved Countries

This is a Masters All Subjects scholarships for International Students, Australia Awards Approved Countries at Australian Universities, , Australia. Students interested in All Subjects are advised to apply for Australia Awards Scholarships for International Students 2024.

Romanian Government ARICE Scholarship 2024 (Fully Funded)

• Romania Universities
• Bachelor, Masters, PhD

This is a Bachelor, Masters, PhD scholarships for International Students at Romania Universities, , Romania. Students interested in are advised to apply for Romanian Government ARICE Scholarship 2024 (Fully Funded).

DAAD-EPOS Scholarships in Germany Development Related Courses 2025-2026

• Germany Universities
• Masters, PhD

This is a Masters, PhD scholarships for International Students at Germany Universities, , Germany. Students interested in are advised to apply for DAAD-EPOS Scholarships in Germany Development Related Courses 2025-2026.

Islamic Development Bank IsDB Scholarships 2024/2025 (Fully Funded)

• offered by IsDB

This is a Bachelor, Masters, PhD All Subjects scholarships for International Students at , , Worldwide. Students interested in All Subjects are advised to apply for Islamic Development Bank IsDB Scholarships 2024/2025 (Fully Funded).

University College London IOE Centenary Scholarships 2024 in UK

• Full tuition fee, Stipened
• University College London

This is a Masters scholarships for International Students at University College London, London, UK. Students interested in are advised to apply for University College London IOE Centenary Scholarships 2024 in UK.

University of Sussex Chancellor's Excellence Scholarships 2024 in UK

• Tuition Fee Reduction
• University of Sussex

This is a Masters scholarships for International Students at University of Sussex, Brighton and Hove, UK. Students interested in are advised to apply for University of Sussex Chancellor's Excellence Scholarships 2024 in UK.

King Mongkut University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) Scholarships 2024 in Thailand

• Partial Funding, Fully Funded
• King Mongkut University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT)

This is a Bachelor, Masters, PhD scholarships for International Students at King Mongkut University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), Bangkok, Thailand. Students interested in are advised to apply for King Mongkut University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) Scholarships 2024 in Thailand.

Colombia Government Scholarship 2024/2025 (Fully Funded and Without IELTS)

• ICETEX - Colombian Institute of Educational Credit and Technical Studies Abroad

This is a Masters, PhD All Subjects scholarships for International Students at ICETEX - Colombian Institute of Educational Credit and Technical Studies Abroad, , Colombia. Students interested in All Subjects are advised to apply for Colombia Government Scholarship 2024/2025 (Fully Funded and Without IELTS).

Croatian Government Scholarships 2024

• Croatia Universities

This is a Research scholarships for International Students at Croatia Universities, , Croatia. Students interested in are advised to apply for Croatian Government Scholarships 2024.

Brock University Scholarships Fall 2024 in Canada

• Brock University
• Undergraduate

This is a Undergraduate scholarships for International Students at Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada. Students interested in are advised to apply for Brock University Scholarships Fall 2024 in Canada.

Duke-UNC Rotary Peace Fellowships 2025 USA (Fully Funded)

• Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

This is a Fellowship scholarships for International Students at Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, , USA. Students interested in are advised to apply for Duke-UNC Rotary Peace Fellowships 2025 USA (Fully Funded).

University of Adelaide Global Excellence International Scholarship 2024 Australia

• Tuition fee (reduction of 50% of the tuition fee)
• University of Adelaide

This is a Undergraduate, Postgraduate scholarships for International Students at University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia. Students interested in are advised to apply for University of Adelaide Global Excellence International Scholarship 2024 Australia.

University of Memphis Graduate International Merit Scholarship Fall 2024 USA.

• University of Memphis

This is a Graduate All Subjects scholarships for International Students at University of Memphis, , USA. Students interested in All Subjects are advised to apply for University of Memphis Graduate International Merit Scholarship Fall 2024 USA..

Top 15 Social Work Scholarships for International Students

Here is the list of currently open Top 15 best Social Work Scholarships for International Students Without IELTS. You may submit your PTE test of English language Proficency Certificate from your last institutiton as per university admission requirment for following scholarships

Quick Links

• Facebook like 25.7 K
• twitter share

Recent Updates

• Scholarships

Macquarie University Sydney Australia, Graduate Research Scholarships 2024/2025.

Bocconi university scholarships 2024 in italy, barcelona graduate school of economics scholarships 2024, spain., friedrich ebert foundation scholarships 2024/2025 in germany (fully funded), joint japan world bank graduate scholarship program 2024., boston university massachusetts usa presidential scholarships 2024/2025, scholarships that privately financed students can apply for upon arrival in japan, study abroad: a student's handbook for international schools, kpmg summer internships 2024 for international students, ireland., bahrain work visa 2024 (jobs and application process), south africa work visa 2024 (visa process and types), morocco work visa 2024 ( application process, types and requirements), vodafone turkey graduate internship program 2024., newfoundland and labrador canada virtual immigration and job fair 2024., latest canadian jobs for international job seekers in 2024. (deadline in march).

Study Postgraduate

Phd in social policy and social work (2024 entry).

Course code

October, January and April

3-4 years full-time; Up to 7 years part-time

Qualification

Centre for Lifelong Learning

University of Warwick

Find out more about this Social Policy and Social Work research PhD.

The PhD in Social Policy and Social Work allows you to select a topic of your choice linked to our expertise within the broad field of social policy and social work. Warwick's Centre for Lifelong Learning provides a rich, transdisciplinary academic environment supported by a dedicated team including supervision and personal tutoring.

Course overview

This PhD provides an opportunity to undertake in-depth research linked to our expertise in social work and social policy. It spans a diverse range of areas reflecting the multi-disciplinary strengths of our faculty. We support interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research projects linked to one or more of our main research themes.

Teaching and learning

We provide a pleasant PhD study room and dedicated personal tutor support in addition to the supervisory team. A combined staff and student seminar programme provides a collegiate forum for sharing and discussing current topics and ideas.

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements.

2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject or a good Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject.

English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirements Link opens in a new window . This course requires the following:

• IELTS overall score of 7.0, minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the rest at 7.0 or above.

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements page Link opens in a new window .

Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Our research

Research themes can include:

• Men, masculinity, and health
• Inequalities in health
• Developing knowledgeable and resilient ‘social actors’ through professional training and CPD
• The impact of neo-liberal policies on organisational behaviour, structure, and culture
• The formation of professional identity and professionalism within the context of neo-liberalism
• Social policy
• Comparative welfare state studies
• Labour markets
• Unemployment policy
• Childbirth/fatherhood
• Health and social work
• Mental Health
• Work and practice related to the Mental Health Act 1983 (2007) and Mental Capacity Act (2005)
• International and European approaches and perspectives in mental health practice

Find a supervisor

Please visit our website for a current list of supervisors and their available projects.

Applicants are encouraged to contact their potential supervisor. The most important aspect is the nature of your project and its potential for supervision in our department

You are asked to view your intended supervisor's profile and read their work. Please think about what might make your proposed PhD attractive to your supervisor, and customise the proposal accordingly.

• How does your project relate to your intended supervisor's work?
• How might your project enhance, advance, or develop it?
• Could you take it in a different direction?
• What kind of methods and approaches are likely to appeal to your potential supervisor?

We receive a large number of proposals every year and only have capacity for proposals that are carefully tailored to our specific areas of expertise.

Find a supervisor guidance

Visit our website to explore our PhD routes and areas of expertise. Link opens in a new window

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Find your research course fees

Fee Status Guidance

The University carries out an initial fee status assessment based on information provided in the application and according to the guidance published by UKCISA. Students are classified as either Home or Overseas Fee status and this can determine the tuition fee and eligibility of certain scholarships and financial support.

If you receive an offer, your fee status will be stated with the tuition fee information. If you believe your fee status has been incorrectly classified you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire (follow the instructions in your offer) and provide the required documentation for this to be reassessed.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides guidance to UK universities on fees status criteria, you can find the latest guidance on the impact of Brexit on fees and student support on the UKCISA website .

Additional course costs

Please contact your academic department for information about department specific costs, which should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

• Core text books
• Printer credits
• Dissertation binding
• Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLL)

For more than 30 years, the Centre for Lifelong Learning has been a centre of expertise in the education of lifelong learners in different contexts. It has a focus on enabling adult learners to achieve their personal and professional goals by accessing a Warwick education, irrespective of background.

Our departmental research strategy focuses on four interconnected themes: concepts of lifelong learning; people-focused professions; wellbeing and identity; participation and collaboration. We seek to enthuse staff, students, and the wider community with this vision. More information is available on our website.

Find out more about us by visiting our website. Link opens in a new window

Our Postgraduate Taught courses

• Career Coaching (PGA)
• Career Development and Coaching Studies (MA)
• Career Development and Coaching Studies (PGCert)
• Career Development and Coaching Studies (PGDip)
• Career Development Theories (PGA)
• Career Education, Information and Guidance in HE (MA)
• Career Education, Information and Guidance in HE (PGCert)
• Career Education, Information and Guidance in HE (PGDip)
• Challenges of Careers Work in Higher Education (PGA)
• Coaching (MA)
• Coaching (PGCert)
• Coaching (PGDip)
• Leadership and Team Coaching (PGA)
• Psychotherapy and Counselling (MSc)

Our Postgraduate Research courses

• PhD in Adult Education and Lifelong Learning
• PhD in Social Policy and Social Work
• PhD in Social Work

How to apply

The application process for courses that start in September and October 2024 will open on 2 October 2023.

For research courses that start in September and October 2024 the application deadline for students who require a visa to study in the UK is 2 August 2024. This should allow sufficient time to complete the admissions process and to obtain a visa to study in the UK.

How to apply for a postgraduate research course  

After you’ve applied

Find out how we process your application.

Applicant Portal

Track your application and update your details.

Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

Join a live chat

Ask questions and engage with Warwick.

Warwick Hosted Events Link opens in a new window

Postgraduate fairs.

Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in-person around the UK. These events give you the chance to explore our range of postgraduate courses, and find out what it’s like studying at Warwick. You’ll also be able to speak directly with our student recruitment team, who will be able to help answer your questions.

Join a live chat with our staff and students, who are here to answer your questions and help you learn more about postgraduate life at Warwick. You can join our general drop-in sessions or talk to your prospective department and student services.

Departmental events

Some academic departments hold events for specific postgraduate programmes, these are fantastic opportunities to learn more about Warwick and your chosen department and course.

See our online departmental events

Warwick Talk and Tours

A Warwick talk and tour lasts around two hours and consists of an overview presentation from one of our Recruitment Officers covering the key features, facilities and activities that make Warwick a leading institution. The talk is followed by a campus tour which is the perfect way to view campus, with a current student guiding you around the key areas on campus.

Connect with us

Learn more about Postgraduate study at the University of Warwick.

Page updates

We may have revised the information on this page since publication. See the edits we have made and content history .

Why Warwick

Discover why Warwick is one of the best universities in the UK and renowned globally.

9th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2024) Link opens in a new window

67th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024) Link opens in a new window

6th most targeted university by the UK's top 100 graduate employers Link opens in a new window

(The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers Research Ltd. Link opens in a new window )

About the information on this page

This information is applicable for 2024 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.

Scholarships

Home Academics Scholarships

Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarship applicants are automatically considered for all available scholarship opportunities.

The Scholarship application for the 2024-2025 Academic Year is now closed. Please check back in Spring 2025 for the scholarship application for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Available Scholarships

Scholarship Committee reviews applications selecting undergraduate and Master level students who plan to work in education or mental health settings with children. Mental health settings include: public schools, in-patient psychiatric hospitals, adoption/foster care agencies, youth leadership development programs, special education or child welfare agencies, or doctoral students interested in unique mental health needs of children.

This scholarship is awarded to a Bachelor, Master, or Doctoral Social Work student. To be eligible for this scholarship, you must be currently admitted and in good standing.

Scholarship Committee selection from financial aid applications of a undergraduate or Master level student: 1) residing in a rural area of Kentucky with a county population of less than 100,000; 2) also actively involved in research to enhance quality of life of rural Kentuckians. Doctoral student requirement: 1) studying social services or income support systems in rural areas of US or abroad and plans a social work teaching career; 2) studying social services or income support systems in rural areas of US or abroad with no plans for a social work teaching career.

Coming Soon

This is awarded to a Bachelor and Masters of Social Work Student. To be eligible for this scholarship, you must meet all of the following criteria: 1) Age 30 or older; 2) Responsible for minor children; 3)Returning to school after an absence of 5 years or more; 4) In need of Financial Assistance. If you meet all of the aforementioned criteria, please include these details in your essay in the scholarship application.

Awarded to currently admitted/enrolled Social Work junior or senior undergraduate or master’s level students with a SW 3.0 GPA & financial need. Criteria for this scholarship is currently under review. Check back soon.

Selection for internship by Field Director and Department of Public Advocacy’s Juvenile Block Grant Administrator or his/her designee. Student must have demonstrated leadership skills and demonstrated commitment to the discipline of social work.

Applicants must be entering senior year or first year of graduate school that has shown a continuous interest in the needs of senior citizens.

Scholarship Committee reviews applications of students who are pursuing their undergraduate or graduate degree in SW and 1) are studying Gerontology in CoSW; and 2) have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Awarded to a graduate student who: 1) has been a practicing social worker in western Kentucky or demonstrated through work experience a commitment to serving the population of that area & will be actively involved in research designed to enhance quality of life for those living in western Kentucky; 2) if no candidates meet #1, then students from outside western Kentucky who meet remainder of criteria shall be considered.

Applicants may be: 1) Master’s level student that is a resident of southeastern Kentucky & will serve same population, or 2) MSW student, native Kentuckian & will serve the SE Kentucky community, or 3) Doctoral student, native Kentuckian & will serve the community in SE Kentucky.

Committee reviewed applicants will be 1) a graduate student who has been a practicing social worker in eastern Kentucky or has demonstrated through work experience a commitment to serving that population and actively involved in research designed to enhance quality of life of eastern Kentuckians (counties specified) or 2) a graduate student not born or residing in eastern Kentucky but who is or will be actively involved in research designed to enhance the quality of life of eastern Kentuckians.

Scholarship Committee reviews applications selecting a student who is a resident of eastern Kentucky, will serve the same population, has a GPA of 2.75 or above, has participated in community-based activities and has good citizenship/leadership qualities and has been accepted into the MSW program.

Awarded to a student who has a Bachelor Social Work degree from accredited program; completed all 600 level or equivalent courses required for Master Social Work program; exhibits interest in specified field of study & interested in cooperative educational program sponsored by donor.

This scholarship is awarded to Master level Social Work students who are from eastern Kentucky.

Scholarship Committee selects from applicants who have completed an essay and are 1) a second year graduate student; 2) received a minimum of 1,000 on the Graduate Record Examination; 3) demonstrated excellence in scholarship, leadership qualities, and a potential for making a major contribution to the field of social work as determined by the Scholarship Committee. Preference given to students who have demonstrated a commitment to the field of mental health.

Awarded to applicant with preference given to: 1) native Kentuckian engaged in research of developmental disabilities; 2) native Kentuckian engaged in research in human services delivery; 3) native Kentuckian engaged in research in social work practice or education; 4) UK SW doctoral student.

Support through research on race and ethnicity. Scholarship Committee reviews applications and selects 1) student committed to Social Work; and 2) holds a GPA of 3.0 or better; and 3) preference given to international student studying at UK CoSW.

First preference given to full-time, tenure-track faculty member. Second reference is a doctoral student beginning dissertation work.

Scholarship Committee selects students currently admitted and enrolled in Social Work who are: 1) enrolled in the BASW or MSW program; 2) have unmet financial needs as determined by the University, which is currently determined by Federal Application for Student Financial Aid.

Demonstrated commitment to implementing effective youth development programs, child welfare services or public policy for youth in urban communities in Kentucky or Indiana; if no student meets criteria, consider students who have demonstrated a commitment to quality child welfare and juvenile justice services and policies for urban youth.

First preference to graduate or undergraduate who is a resident of Virginia Place. If no student resides at Virginia Place, second preference is undergrad or grad whose research focuses on maternal/child well-being; if no research focus on maternal/child well-being, third preference to student single-parenting minor children.

This scholarship is provided by the Wiley Publishing Company and supports students in the online MSW program.

GPA at least 3.0, demonstrated record of personally overcoming adversity and/or working with others to overcome adversity. Adversity is defined as physical, social, financial barriers; interest in studying and working in field of community organization; demonstrated record of volunteer service in home community.

CW PREP is a collaboration between UK and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services designed to add highly trained social work graduates to the ranks of child protection workers throughout Kentucky.  This is a competitive program that provides in-state tuition, a stipend each semester, and a job upon graduation through a two-year employment commitment with the Cabinet following successful completion of the program. Interested students should contact Erin Mayhorn at [email protected] .

• Meet the Dean
• College Directory
• College News
• Faculty/Staff Self-Care & Wellness
• Diversity & Expansion

Ph.D Scholarships UK - Ph.D Funding UK 2024-2025

If you want to take your Ph.D program in UK but you need financial support, below is a list of available Ph.D scholarships for International students in UK  2024-2025. These Ph.D grants uk are made available by universities in UK

• Fully funded

University Of Birmingham PhD Scholarship for Black British Researchers 2024

The PhD will provide a unique opportunity to engage with an under-researched collection of African art at the University of Birmingham (UoB), a discrete collection that is part of Research and Cultural Collections (RCC) - a university museum holding full Museum Accredited status from Arts Council En

Published: 2024-04-02 Type: PhD Study in: Birmingham Deadline: January 1, 1970

City Law School PhD Law Scholarships for Black British Researchers 2024

The City Law School is offering a full-time, three-year doctoral scholarships (entry in September 2024) specifically addressed to Black British applicants. Applications are invited from exceptional and ambitious graduates wishing to pursue cutting-edge research in any of the School's key rese

Published: 2024-03-28 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: April 1, 2024

University of Sussex Peter Carpenter Africa Climate Scholarship for African PhD Students 2024

This prestigious fully-funded PhD Peter Carpenter Climate Change scholarship is awarded to African citizens with top level academic qualifications. The PhD programme is hosted within the Climate Science and Society Research (CSSR) group in the Department of Geography, where there is a v

Published: 2024-03-28 Type: PhD Study in: Brighton Deadline: April 15, 2024

University of Kent Law School PhD Research Studentship in UK 2024

This studentship is offered by Kent Law School in association with the UKRI-funded Future Leaders Fellowship project led by Dr Connal Parsley, “The Future of Good Decisions: an Evolutionary Approach to Human-AI Government Administrative Decision-Making”. The project will take a new appro

Published: 2024-03-05 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: March 31, 2024

Newcastle University PhD Studentship in Skeletal Muscle (UK) 2024

We are offering an exciting opportunity for a motivated and talented individual to join our team. Our prior studies have revealed intriguing structural changes in patients with mitochondrial myopathy, a condition characterised by mitochondrial dysfunction. Specifically, we have observed an increased

Published: 2024-02-26 Type: PhD Study in: Newcastle upon Tyne Deadline: April 30, 2024

University of Kent Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Scholarship for PhD Students 2024

The University of Kent is pleased to offer four EPSRC studentships starting in September 2024 to exceptional students undertaking PhD study in the following schools on a full-time basis: School of Physics and Astronomy School of Chemistry and Forensic Sciences School of Computing School

Published: 2024-02-22 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: March 24, 2024

University of Southampton Horizon Europe Fee Waivers for Postgraduate Students 2024

The University of Southampton is introducing a new programme to support the reassociation of the UK with the Horizon Europe programme, and the University strategy to grow the international diversity of its doctoral cohort. The University will apply a fee waiver - equivalent to the diffe

Published: 2024-02-20 Type: PhD Study in: Southampton Deadline: Not Specified

University Of Portsmouth PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Narcissus 2024

This Ph.D. project explores the rarely studied area of corona structures in Narcissus flowers, highlighting the striking species-to-species variation. To solve the puzzles surrounding corona development, the research combines cooperative efforts, high-throughput DNA sequencing, developmental genetic

Published: 2024-02-16 Type: PhD Study in: Portsmouth Deadline: March 1, 2024

Newcastle University Konishi Foundation Scholarship for PhD Students 2024

The Konishi Foundation Scholarship provides support to an excellent candidate who wishes to pursue a PhD in Politics in topics related to East Asian politics within the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology at Newcastle University. For purposes of this call, East Asia includes China, Hong Kong

Published: 2024-02-16 Type: PhD Study in: Newcastle upon Tyne Deadline: February 19, 2024

King’s College CMCI London African Music PhD Scholarship 2024

The researcher will be based in the Department of Culture, Media and Creative Industries (CMCI),  King’s College London and co-supervised by Professor Roberta Comunian (Professor of Creative Economies in the Department of Culture, Media & Creative Industries) and&n

Published: 2024-02-15 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: March 19, 2024

King’s College London Afro Beats And Afro Bytes: PhD Studentship for African Students 2024

The researcher will be based in the Department of Culture, Media and Creative Industries (CMCI),  King’s College London and co-supervised by Professor Roberta Comunian (Professor of Creative Economies in the Department of Culture, Media & Creative Industries) and Dr Eka

Published: 2024-02-13 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: March 19, 2024

Newcastle University AHRC-funded PhD Studentship in Early Modern Studies 2024

Interested in early modern books, print culture and politics? This project investigates how the early modern English state used the book trade guild known as the Stationers’ Company to censor publications.  You will work with the Stationers’ Company’s extensive archive (in

Published: 2024-02-12 Type: PhD Study in: Newcastle upon Tyne Deadline: February 28, 2024

Newcastle University Overseas Research Scholarships (NUORS) for International PhD Students 2024 entry

Newcastle University is committed to offering support to the very best international students hoping to pursue a programme of research. We are pleased to offer a small number of University funded NUORS awards for outstanding international students who apply to commence PhD studies in any subject in

Published: 2024-02-08 Type: PhD Study in: Newcastle upon Tyne Deadline: May 10, 2024

Newcastle University Overseas Research Scholarships (NUORS) 2024 entry

Published: 2024-02-07 Type: PhD Study in: Newcastle upon Tyne Deadline: May 10, 2024

University of Bristol Black Heritage PhD Scholarships 2024

We welcome applications for full scholarships to postgraduate research programmes starting in 2024. As part of our commitment to the Black community, the University of Bristol has launched a number of postgraduate research scholarships exclusively for students of Black heritage for 2024/25 entry.

Published: 2024-02-02 Type: PhD Study in: Bristol Deadline: February 27, 2024

University of Leeds Business School Marketing Department Scholarship 2024

Doctoral research students in marketing will develop the ability to pursue research that advances the frontiers of the marketing discipline and solves business and marketing problems using advanced research tools and techniques. They will learn how to derive implications from their research results

Published: 2024-01-23 Type: PhD Study in: Leeds Deadline: April 26, 2024

University Of Manchester Dean's Doctoral Scholarship Award 2024

These scholarships are open to all nationalities and across all research areas, and will be of interest to students of the highest calibre who have the commitment and desire to work on challenging research projects in a world leading research environment.  

Published: 2024-01-18 Type: PhD Study in: Manchester Deadline: March 31, 2024

Regent's University London PhD Progression Scholarship 2023

Regent's PhD Progression Scholarships reward the loyalty of undergraduate students or taught postgraduate students who progress to enrol on a PhD degree with us. It's our way of saying thank you.  

Published: 2024-01-18 Type: PhD Study in: London Deadline: Not Specified

University of Edinburgh 2023 Informatics Global PhD Scholarship

If you have a strong academic record of accomplishment at undergraduate or Masters level, and are highly motivated to pursue a PhD programme in the School of Informatics at The University of Edinburgh, you could be selected to receive a full PhD scholarship.  Applicants who submit a programm

Published: 2024-01-12 Type: PhD Study in: Edinburgh Deadline: April 26, 2024

University of Edinburgh Law School & Cameron PhD Scholarship to Study In UK, 2024

Edinburgh Law School offers a number of full PhD studentships, one of which is provided through a generous bequest from alumnus Ewen Cameron in his name. These scholarships will pay tuition fees and an annual stipend in line with UKRI rates (approximately £18,662 per annum). The stipend wil

Published: 2024-01-11 Type: PhD Study in: Cardiff Deadline: February 1, 2024

Best UK Scholarships

• Loughborough Development Trust Africa Scholarship for International African Students 2024-2025
• Newcastle University Sanctuary Scholarships 2024
• Brunel University NSIRC Scholarships 2024
• University of Strathclyde Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Fully-funded Scholarship Program in UK 2024
• City University of London Education Grant to Supporting Undergraduate Students 2024
• Leeds Masters Scholarships at University of Leeds 2024
• Sheffield Hallam University Transform Together Scholarships for International Students 2024
• Brunel University London Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Award for International Postgraduate Students 2024

Study in UK Tips

• Cheapest European Holiday Destinations 
• Skilled Worker Visa UK Requirements
• 16 Part Time Jobs for International Students in UK 2024-2025
• List of UK Government Scholarships 2024-2025
• UK Student Visa Application - How to Apply for Student Visa UK
• 20 Executive MBA in London 2024
• 2 Year Nursing Degree UK 2024-2025
• Cheap Student Accommodation London

Scholarships by UK City

• Newcastle upon Tyne

Scholarships by Category

• Postgraduate
• Undergraduate
• College School
• Entrepreneurs
• Women Scholarships
• Best Scholarships
• Fully Funded

Scholarships by Schools / Sponsors

• City University London
• Imperial College London
• University of Sussex
• University of Birmingham
• Brunel University London
• University of Strathclyde

Scholarships by Country of Origin

• African Students
• Developing Countries
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Scholarships

• Undergraduate Scholarships
• Masters Scholarships
• MBA Scholarships
• Ph.D Scholarships
• Fellowship Scholarships
• Fully Funded Scholarships
• UK Student Visa Application
• Reasons To Study In The UK
• List of All UK Universities
• How To Get Scholarship In The UK
• Best Cities In UK For International Students

Other Locations

• Scholarships for International Students
• Scholarships in Canada
• Scholarships for Nigerian Students
• Scholarships for African Students
• Study Abroad Community