PhD/MPhil Social Policy, Sociology and Criminology

Study Discipline: Law Studies, Social Sciences
Study Programme Details
City:Birmingham
Country: United Kingdom
Admission Sessions:Autumn Session
Study Format: Full Time, Part Time
Mode of Study: Fully on Site

Programme Type

PhD / Doctorate

Duration

24 Months

Scholarship Available

Yes

Language

English

About this Study Course

Our PhD/MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology offers a comprehensive exploration of these interconnected disciplines. Whether you are passionate about social justice, societal structures, or criminal behavior, this programme provides the perfect platform to advance your understanding and make impactful contributions. Our department embraces current trends and future possibilities in these fields, integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications. PhD students benefit from a wide range of events, including Departmental Research Seminars, Research Centre Seminars, and Postgraduate Research Student Seminars. This vibrant and engaged PhD researcher community fosters collaboration and innovation, preparing you to address the complex social issues of our time.

Overview

Prospective applicants for our PhD/MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology are encouraged to apply, detailing their special interests through a research proposal and relevant documents such as a personal statement, CV, and confirmation of supervision from the main supervisor. We support applications in a variety of research areas and promote early contact with potential supervisors to refine your research focus. Supervision is typically provided by staff within the Department, with opportunities for joint supervision across other departments to enhance interdisciplinary research.

Our PhD programme combines rigorous taught courses in the first year with continuous, personalized supervision to help you produce a thesis that makes a significant and original contribution to your field. Regular meetings with supervisors, annual panel reviews, and opportunities to present at conferences and publish your work are integral parts of our programme. For home students, the programme offers flexibility with full-time, part-time, or distance learning options. International students can undertake full-time studies, with distance learning available either full-time or part-time, ensuring a flexible and supportive learning environment.

Admission Requirements

  • A first-class or upper second-class Honours degree in social policy, sociology, criminology, or a relevant social science, or completion of an appropriate postgraduate programme.
  • Post-qualification experience, including professional qualifications and experience, will also be considered.
  • Submission of the following application materials:
    • Research proposal on your selected topic
    • Personal statement
    • CV
  • Advanced Research Methods in Social Sciences
  • Theories of Social Policy
  • Contemporary Issues in Criminology
  • Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods
  • Sociology of Deviance and Crime
  • Ethics in Social Research
  • Social Policy Analysis
  • Dissertation Development

UK

PhD Full time £4,778, Part time £2,389

MPhil Full time £4,778, Part time £2,389

Distance Learning £2,389

International

PhD Full time £21,360

Distance Learning £10,680

Future Career Outcomes

Graduates of our PhD/MPhil in Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology have achieved notable success in various sectors. Alumni have become influential social policy advisors, shaping policies that address societal challenges. Others have taken on roles as public sociologists, advocating for social justice and community development. Our programme is aligned with industry demands, emphasizing critical skills such as analytical thinking, research methodologies, and policy analysis. These competencies are essential in today’s job market, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to contribute to and lead in their chosen fields.

Visa Requirements:

For visa information, please visit United Kingdom page for student visa and student life.