This is a one year research programme, undertaken entirely by research on a topic proposed by the candidate and approved by the University. A supervisor will be appointed who will provide formal research supervision to the candidate for the 12 month period. At the end of the period, students will be expected to present a piece of work approximately 40,000–50,000 words in length.

There are four methods of doing the programme either pursuing full-time study at the University; pursuing full-time research at an external place of employment or either of these pathways on a part-time basis over a period of 24 months instead of the full-time 12 month period.

Social policy is an exciting subject to study because of its relevance to society – its structures and everyday life. We have a very active PhD culture in the School with current students researching areas of welfare inequality and social development.