PhD Social Work

Overview

The PhD in Social Work offers a unique opportunity to undertake research in a variety of social and health contexts. Students may be interested in the experiences of looked after children, the care of older people, or the support provided to refugees. The program is likely to have a supervisor with the experience to support students in their research process.

The PhD is offered on a 3-year full-time or 6-year part-time basis, plus up to a maximum of one year of completion. Students will have access to the University's Proficio research training scheme, which allows them to choose training programs that meet the requirements of their own research topics and methodologies.

The School of Health and Social Care is proud to work closely with the Service User Reference Group (SURG), which is made up of service users, carers, and volunteers who share their first-hand experiences of health and social care. SURG is involved in the course application processes and often forms part of the interview panels.

Our Expert Staff

The School of Health and Social Care has a number of registered Social Workers who are also PhD supervisors. This provides students with ongoing support and guidance alongside the academic rigor necessary to supervise a PhD. Where possible, two supervisors are offered to ensure all supervision requirements are met.

Specialist Facilities

The School has access to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) building and a PhD room with desk space, PCs, printer, and shelf space.

Your Future

Essex University graduates are in the frontline of shaping policies and influencing debates internationally. Some graduates continue working in academic settings as lecturers or researchers, while others work in clinical and management positions in local trusts, social work/care organizations, hospitals, international NGOs, as well as in local and county councils.

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

• A Master's degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline such as a health science or a social science.
• Alternatively, evidence of advanced research skills developed through an alternative route.
• A well-developed research proposal is also essential.
• Students will normally be required to attend an interview/Skype interview for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.

International & EU Entry Requirements

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries.

• A list of countries with their respective qualifications is provided, but it is recommended to get in touch with any questions about the qualifications accepted.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent.

Structure

Course Structure

A research degree doesn't have a taught structure, giving students the chance to investigate their chosen topic in real depth and reach a profound understanding. In communicating that understanding, through a thesis or other means, students have a rare opportunity to generate knowledge.

Fees and Funding

Home/UK Fee

• Ł5,238 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

International Fee

• Ł20,625 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

Scholarships and Financial Support

There may be scholarships, bursaries, or discounts available to help with the cost of the course.

What's Next

Open Days

The University holds Open Days for all applicants throughout the year. The Colchester Campus events are a great way to find out more about studying at Essex and give students the chance to:

• Tour the campus and accommodation
• Find out answers to questions about courses, graduate employability, student support, and more
• Talk to the Fees and Funding team about scholarship opportunities
• Meet students and staff

Applying

Students can apply for this postgraduate course online. Before applying, please check the information about necessary documents that will be asked to provide as part of the application.

Related Courses

• MPhil Social Work
  • Study mode: Full-time, Part-time
  • Location: Colchester Campus
• MSc (by Dissertation) Social Work
  • Study mode: Full-time, Part-time
  • Location: Colchester Campus
• PhD Social Work
  • Study mode: Full-time
  • Location: Colchester Campus

University of Essex

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Overview:

The University of Essex is a public research university located in Colchester, Essex, England. It is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and law. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and apprenticeships.

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Services Offered:

The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Accommodation:

Guaranteed, affordable accommodation for new undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Student Support:

A variety of support services are available to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.

Careers and Employability:

The university offers resources and programs to help students develop their career skills and find employment.

Essex Sport:

A wide range of sports facilities and activities are available to students, including fitness classes, performance sport, and scholarships.

Faith:

The university provides support for students of all faiths.

Cost of Living Support:

The university offers financial assistance to students who are struggling with the cost of living.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Essex can expect a vibrant and diverse campus experience. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Reputation:

The university is consistently ranked highly in national and international rankings.

Excellent Research:

The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.

Diverse and Inclusive Community:

The university is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Excellent Student Support:

The university provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.

Beautiful Campus:

The university has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Essex offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, business, and science.

Postgraduate Programs:

The university offers a wide range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and professional qualifications.

Short Courses and CPD:

The university offers a variety of short courses and continuing professional development programs.

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Other:

The university has three campuses: Colchester, Southend, and Loughton. The Colchester campus is the main campus and is located in a beautiful parkland setting. The Southend campus is located on the seafront and offers a more urban experience. The Loughton campus is home to the university's drama school, East 15 Acting School.

The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Research in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Management (REIMI) and the Human Rights Centre.