Course summary
The Professional Doctorate (SSPD) is a part-time doctoral research degree, equivalent to the PhD but different in that it is professionally orientated to focus on ‘applied’ research, rather than ‘pure’ research. The programme has been designed for experienced practitioners and managers working at senior levels within their chosen profession and provides the opportunity to examine leading theories and research in a professional context. Based in the School of Social Sciences the SPPD draws on the expertise from a range of disciplines including Education, Politics, Sociology, Social Policy, Economics, and Philosophy which combine to offer a programme which is both integrated and multi-disciplinary. The SPPD at Swansea is research led throughout, supported by academics with international reputations for excellence. The taught modules are designed to support you to systematically acquire a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of research and practice, as well as an understanding of advanced research methods. Throughout your academic experience, you will receive increased contact with cutting edge research, augmenting an understanding of a wide range of issues with support from the Programme Director and your supervisor via online and in-person meetings. The structure of the SPPD comprises a taught phase which includes five modules taken over three years, and a research phase, during which time you will produce a doctoral thesis. During the research phase you will undertake your own research, to be presented and defended during a viva voce examination, as with other doctoral programmes. The programme has been designed to be flexible to fit around the commitments of working professionals with a blend of in-person and on-line delivery which is scheduled well in advance. The programme allows minimum candidature of six years and a submission date of seven years. Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study at Swansea University.
Entry requirements
We encourage interested applicants to contact us to discuss their areas of interest and qualifications before making a formal application. Candidates interested in applying to study the SPPD should hold: Significant level of organisational experience, usually at least 3 years in a senior role. An undergraduate degree with a minimum classification of upper second (2:1) or equivalent. We would also be willing to consider those with other backgrounds and work experience in the sector, in place of the undergraduate degree entry requirement. A Masters’ degree in a related discipline or equivalent professional qualification. Applications must be accompanied with a CV and proposal identifying a professional issue or problem that may form the basis of their future research. Applicants will be invited to an interview with the programme leadership team.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £2427 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £2427 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £2427 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £2427 | Year 1 |
| EU | £9000 | Year 1 |
| International | £9000 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Swansea University
Singleton Park
Swansea
SA2 8PP