Professional Doctorate in Policy Research and Practice DPRP

University of Bath

This pioneering doctorate will enhance professional capability and critical reflection on the theories, methods and practices of policymaking. This course is designed to enable experienced professionals working in a range of policy arenas – locally, nationally, and globally – to develop their policy analysis expertise without having to take a full career break. Combining advanced training in policy research and analysis with a thesis based on original research, it is based on a cohort model and can be spread out over four to six years.

Throughout the course, you will have access to a wide range of sector-specific expertise across the University, including industrial strategy, international development, health, education and digital public policy.

This is a part-time distance-learning course including face-to-face teaching on a two-week residential, this year held at the end of August and early September. The course is designed to be compatible with near full-time employment over a period of up to six years with the possibility of being completed more quickly for high-performing students who can allocate more time to study.

Most students complete this programme in 5 years. You cannot take less than 4 years to finish your research and the maximum time you are allowed is normally 8 years.