Overview

You may be interested in the experiences of looked after children, the care of older people or the support provided to refugees but whatever your specific research interests we are likely to have a supervisor with the experience to support you in this process.

In addition, you will have access to the University’s Proficio research training scheme which allows you to choose training programmes that meet the requirements of your own research topics and methodologies.

This PhD in Social Work from University of Essex is offered on a 3 year full-time or 6 year part-time basis.

Your future

Essex University graduates are in the frontline of shaping policies and influencing debates internationally. Some of our graduates continue working in academic settings as lecturers or researchers while others work in clinical and management positions in local trusts, social work/ care organisations, hospitals, international NGO’s as well as in local and county councils.

Programme Structure

Example structure

A research degree doesn't have a taught structure, giving you the chance to investigate your chosen topic in real depth and reach a profound understanding. In communicating that understanding, through a thesis or other means, you have a rare opportunity to generate knowledge.
A research degree allows you to develop new high-level skills, enhance your professional development and build new networks. It can open doors to many careers.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months
Part-time
- 72 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-10-08 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.
Starting 2027-01-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-24 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00 , National

More details

We recommend that you apply as soon as you are able to as courses may occasionally close early.

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Colchester, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Social Work View 59 other PhDs in Social Work in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You will need a Masters degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline such as a health science or a social science. Alternatively you will need to evidence advanced research skills developed through an alternative route. A well developed research proposal is also essential.
You will normally be required to attend an interview/Skype interview for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20625 GBP / year

≈ 20625 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

5006 GBP / year

≈ 5006 GBP / year

Additional Details

Part-time:

Home/UK fee: £2,503 per year
International fee: £10,313 per year

Living costs

Colchester

United Kingdom

660 - 1140 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Social Work.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Your future

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Colchester

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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