Skip navigation
Professional Doctorate in Health at University of Bath - UCAS

University of Bath

Degree level: Postgraduate

Professional Doctorate in Health (Research)

Course options

2024 - 2025
Apply

Open days

5Feb
University of Bath - Postgraduate Virtual Open Day
Postgraduate
4Jun
University of Bath - Postgraduate Virtual Open Day
Postgraduate

Course summary

Further your development as an expert health practitioner or researcher. Our DHealth course is well-suited to health and social care professionals looking to develop as practitioners and researchers in practice. This is a part-time distance-learning programme. By utilising web-based delivery, blended with Online Summer School (typically five days in length), the programme aims to meet the learning needs of busy health and social care practitioners. You will be able to:

  • choose your learning style within a flexible environment while benefiting from a multi-professional community
  • learn about research methods and conduct independent research whilst remaining in your practice area
  • expand your understanding of policy and practice in the context of international healthcare systems and service.
"Supervising students on the PD Health is hugely rewarding. I enjoy guiding and facilitating my students to develop their research ideas and conduct their doctoral research projects. I feel that providing pastoral support is important, working with each student to codevelop the best study plan for them. Helping my students to further develop their research skills and see them grow in confidence toward becoming an independent researcher is hugely gratifying.” Dr Nikki Coghill, Doctoral Recognition Awards Staff Award Winner 2023 Programme content Learning
  • Design projects
  • Doctoral skills online
  • Interaction and networking
  • Lectures
  • Online resources
  • Practical sessions
  • Real-life case studies
  • Research project
  • Seminars
  • Supervisory team
  • Tutorials
  • Video materials
  • Workshops
Taught content During the first year of your studies with us (phase 1), your PDA will support and guide your learning needs analysis and personal development planning, along with the development of your Doctoral research project protocol. At the beginning of your second year (phase 2), we will work with you to appoint your supervisory team, consisting of:
  • an Academic Supervisor, based at the University of Bath
  • a Practice-based Supervisor, who is an expert in the field in which you wish to conduct your research.
Year one
  • Introduction to research
  • Research design and methods
  • Evidence into practice
  • Research project planning
Year two
  • Professional issues in health policy
  • Professional issues in health practice
  • Research project design and development
Teaching takes the form of online units, which include resource libraries, access to all of the online journals (held by the University of Bath Library), and a structured series of activities, online discussion boards and synchronous webinars. All resources can be accessed through ‘PD Online’ - our bespoke virtual learning environment. You will also be able to submit your assignments on PD Online and communicate directly with staff and your fellow students. A Summer School is held once a year online. You will be expected to attend the online Summer School in September at the beginning of your first year (phase 1) and at the beginning of your second year (phase 2). Research content Once you have passed all units in phases 1 and 2, you will take part in a ‘transfer interview’ to enable you to enter into the research phase of your studies. This will consist of an oral interview with your academic supervisor and another member of academic staff to discuss your proposed Doctoral project and ensure that it is robust and feasible. Professional Development Professional development is a crucial element of doctoral study, not only in supporting your research but also as part of your longer term career development. Our DoctoralSkills workshops and courses will help you build your skills and help you succeed in your doctorate.

Modules

Please check the University of Bath website for the most recently published course detail.

Assessment method

  • Coursework
  • Presentations
  • Thesis
  • Viva Voce
Assessment description Assessment consists of a combination of written assignments, literature reviews, research protocols and reflective accounts. There are no written examinations. You will also produce a portfolio of evidence of application to practice, and have to undertake a face-to-face transfer interview and a final viva.

Entry requirements

First or 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate subject from a recognised university (this may be waived if you have a higher degree, or can demonstrate a track record of practice based research that has been published in peer reviewed journals). Professional requirements Candidates must have a practice-based role within a health, social care, education or clinical/medical context. This will be a condition of entry onto the programme. Candidates should normally have at least 1 years’ experience within their field. English Language requirements You will normally need one of the following: - IELTS: 7.0 overall with no less than 6.5 in all components - The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 69 with no less than 62 in any element - TOEFL IBT: 100 overall with a minimum 24 in all 4 components You will need to get your English language qualification within 24 months prior to starting your course. If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

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

For the most up-to-date information on tuition fees, please visit: http://www.bath.ac.uk/topics/tuition-fees/
Professional Doctorate in Health at University of Bath - UCAS