Program Overview

Social & Public Policy PhD

The Social & Public Policy PhD programme draws on the expertise of academics within the Division of Urban Studies & Social Policy (USSP) and Centre for Public Policy (CPP). USSP is widely recognised as a world-leading centre for innovative, interdisciplinary research with high international impact. CPP works with academics across the University and builds partnerships with the policy community, to foster joint working and evidence-based policymaking.

Overview

Our PhD programme in Social & Public Policy is for students who are eager to shape the future of national and international governance and policymaking. This interdisciplinary PhD covers a wide range of related areas including, but not limited to:

• Comparative and international public policy
• Welfare and social security
• Health service and public health policy
• Collaborative governance
• Public service reform
• Public administration
• Policy process and decision making in government

Students will specialise in their chosen topic area, supervised by nationally and internationally renowned academics from our Division of Urban Studies & Social Policy (USSP) and Centre for Public Policy (CPP). Joint supervision and training will be offered where appropriate. Our multidisciplinary approach will provide students with access to a wealth of knowledge and perspectives that will inform their intellectual and professional development.

Study Options

• PhD: 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time. Final assessment involves the submission of a thesis of between 70,000 and 100,000 words and an oral examination (viva voce).

Entry Requirements

Our research degree applicants will usually possess a good Masters degree (or overseas equivalent), with a significant component in social policy, public policy, or a related social sciences field.

English Language Requirements

For applicants from non-English speaking countries, as defined by the UK Government, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic and Academic Online (not General Training): 7.0 overall with no subtest less than 6.5
• TOEFL (ibt, my best or at home): 96 overall with Reading 23; Listening 23; Speaking 23; Writing 24
• Pearsons PTE Academic: 66 overall with no subtest less than Reading 60; Listening 59; Speaking 59; Writing 74
• Cambridge Proficiency in English (CPE) and Cambridge Advanced English (CAE): 185 overall, no subtest less than 176
• Oxford English Test: 8 overall with Reading and Listening no less than 7 and Writing and Speaking no less than 8
• LanguageCert Academic SELT: 75 overall with two subtests at 75 and no subtest less than 70
• Password Skills Plus: 7.0 overall with no subtest less than 6.5
• Trinity College Tests: Integrated Skills in English II & III & IV: ISEIII Pass with Pass in all sub-tests

Fees and Funding

Fees

• 2026/27:
  • UK: To be confirmed [25/26 fee was ｣5,006]
  • International & EU: ｣27,720 Fees are based on the annual fee for full-time study. Tuition fees for part-time study will be charged at half the full-time annual fee.

Alumni Discount

We offer a 20% discount to our alumni on all Postgraduate Research and full Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes.

Possible Additional Fees

• Re-submission by a research student: ｣540
• Submission for a higher degree by published work: ｣1,355
• Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed: ｣350
• Submission by staff in receipt of staff scholarship: ｣790

Support

The College of Social Sciences Graduate School draws together internationally recognised scholars and respected practitioners to offer a range of research programmes. Our programmes are based on thorough training in research methods and we encourage you to take part in numerous exciting seminars, conferences and events. We offer modern library, IT services and a wide-range of support services. You will be living in one of Europes most exciting cities which has a vibrant cultural and social life.

Our Graduate School Researcher Development Programme will support you to plan your professional development over the course of your PhD and ensure your employability.