Social Sciences - PhD

The School of Social Sciences supports a growing and vibrant community of PhD students. The PhD is an advanced postgraduate qualification, involving three or more years in which you work through the issues associated with solving a particular problem. Each research student is supported by a team of supervisors appointed for the particular study.

In the School of Social Sciences, staff have recognised standing, nationally and internationally, in the following broad areas: understanding crime and punishment; the study of all aspects of psychology; the exploration of social structures and change.

The PhD students benefit from regular supervision meetings with academics who are experts in their field. They have the opportunity to become members of our proactive research community made up of academics, postgraduate researchers and external partners.

A PhD can take three to four years full-time. Each PhD journey is unique and depends on circumstances and the nature of the research. Broadly, however, most journeys fall into a three stage pattern before completion and examination. Usually, the first stage of the journey involves engaging with what has already been written in the field: identifying the gap in current knowledge. The second stage usually involves doing the research. The final stage in the journey involves collating the data and writing up the findings. In reality, of course, these stages overlap and inform each other.

The PhD award is a well established and valued professional qualification within the sector and will enhance career prospects. For those wanting to follow a career in teaching and researching in higher Education, a PhD is highly desirable. The PhD is recognised worldwide and is often an essential requirement for those wishing to follow an academic research career. However, it is increasingly recognised as useful in industry, commerce and the Third Sector.

Opportunity: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market. It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.