Program Overview

About this course

The Professional Doctorate in Health (DProf Health) is a flexible programme of study aimed at those working in health-related environments. It provides an opportunity for students to explore real-world issues, further research, and make an original contribution to knowledge.

Introduction

The Professional Doctorate in Health programme has been designed for those working in healthcare-related environments to embed and build upon applied research in advancing professional healthcare practice in an increasingly complex environment.

Who is this course for?

This programme is intended for healthcare professionals, or those working in related environments, who want to advance their research aspirations in health-related fields.

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

• Year one:
  • Introduction to doctoral research
  • Evidence-based practice and research module
• Year two:
  • Research methods
  • Designing scholarship and research
• Year three:
  • Doctoral thesis

Modules

• INTRODUCTION TO DOCTORAL RESEARCH (HEAL710) - 45 credits
• EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE AND RESEARCH (HEAL711) - 45 credits
• RESEARCH METHODS (HEAL712) - 45 credits
• DESIGNING SCHOLARSHIP AND RESEARCH (HEAL713) - 45 credits
• DOCTORAL THESIS (DDSC C105) - 180 credits

Teaching and assessment

This programme of study will equip students with the professional knowledge and skillset to become high-level scholar practitioners with primary and secondary research techniques that can be used in professional practice.

Your experience

Our postgraduate students will benefit from the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing's experience in delivering over 100 years of dynamic, research-led teaching.

Careers and employability

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

• Tuition fees:
  • UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland): Part-time place, per year - £2,503
• Additional costs: We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee.
• Scholarships and bursaries: We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

• Postgraduate entry requirements: We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution.
• International qualifications: Select your country or region to view specific entry requirements.

What you'll learn

• Analytical skills
• Research techniques
• Leadership skills
• Report writing

Research areas

The programme of study offers an alternative to the PhD or more traditional research routes and is offered on a flexible part-time basis, taking into account the applicants' professional context, prior learning, skills, workplace priorities, and experiences.

Duration and study mode

• Duration: 54-96 months
• Study mode: Part-time

Start date and application deadlines

• Start date: September 2026
• Apply by: 11 September 2026
• Starts on: 28 September 2026

How to apply

Applicants are required to provide:

• A complete Application Form giving basic personal data and educational background.
• A proposal (maximum 2,000 words, including references) which outlines the intended research problem and context to be investigated at the doctoral (thesis) stage.
• A personal statement (maximum 500 words) outlining their motivations for undertaking the programme.
• Copies of academic qualifications and other supporting documents.
• The names of two academic or employer referees.
• Shortlisted applicants will also be invited to attend an interview to discuss suitability of the chosen study area.