Supervision and research areas
More information about supervision interests can be found here.
Postgraduate research
The DSocSci is designed to meet the needs of established professionals who require a sophisticated academic understanding of the issues affecting their field.
It is intended to produce a group of leading-edge practitioners who have mastered the full range of theoretical and practical knowledge necessary for the conduct of their professional activities at the highest level.
On this programme you will gain knowledge of research techniques available for enhancing professional knowledge and the training to help you use these to produce research of publishable quality.
On completion of the DSocSci you will:
The DSocSci is equivalent to a PhD - and like the PhD holders are allowed to use the title 'Doctor'. The DSocSci is available for study by distance learning only and can be completed in a minimum of 48 months to a maximum of 72 months. You can start your degree in February, May or October.
Candidates complete eight taught modules. Modules one to four cover key aspects of research skills and methodological training. For modules five to seven, candidates select three specialist options to demonstrate their knowledge in a specific field. Module eight is a detailed thesis proposal.
Having completed all eight modules, candidates are required to submit a thesis of 50,000 words in a field of study approved by the Doctorate Programme Board. The thesis will demonstrate your ability to apply appropriate research methodologies and to analyse issues within the field of work, employment, and learning. The thesis must contain original work and be of publishable quality.
Please refer to the How to Apply section below before submitting your application.
More information about supervision interests can be found here.
Standard academic entry requirements and English language entry requirements apply.
We will require evidence of a relevant Masters degree, preferably at distinction level, together with a detailed outline of your initial research proposal. The validity and quality of the proposal will be of crucial significance in determining eligibility for entry.
The majority of our candidates are mature professionals who undertake the DSocSci programme to advance or change their career.
Make sure we offer supervision in the area in which you want to work and that you meet or expect to meet the academic entry requirements and the English language requirements.
Prepare your supporting documents, with your application you need to include proof that you meet the academic entry requirements and the English language entry requirements:
Submit your application using the Apply Button at the bottom of this page. Please ensure you upload all the required documents and your completed Research Proposal Form, failure to do so may cause a delay in assessing your application.
We have intakes in February, May and September
You should try to submit your application as far in advance of your preferred start date as possible.
After you have submitted your application, it will take a minimum of six weeks for you to receive a decision about your application.
If you have any questions about the DSocSci or about supervision in the School of Business, please contact us.
For distance learning study if you are living outside of the UK during your studies you will pay the International fee.
The fees quoted are the total fee for the DSocSci programme and can be paid by the following options:
If study extends beyond the 4th year no further fees are required. A payment schedule will be sent with the offer letter.