Overview

We particularly welcome students from all health and social care disciplines who have an interest in exploring related subject areas.

3-year PhD (FT, PT, FT Distance Learning, PT Distance Learning options).

The Social Work programme of study at The University of Manchester consists of:

high-quality supervision by two members of staff with appropriate expertise to guide the PhD applicant throughout the study ensuring academic objectives are met and suitable training is provided;

research and transferable skills training and support;

taught course units in core research methods;

independent study;

an advisor to offer pastoral support.

4-year PhD (FT and FT Distance Learning options only).

We also offer a 4-year PhD programme for students who have not previously studied research methods or in the UK, who have limited English language skills or who have not completed master's.

In this programme, the first year is a foundation year designed to prepare you for the ensuing three years of the 3-year PhD programme.

Programme Structure

Other training and development

All of our postgraduate research students attend the Doctoral Academy Training Programme delivered by the Centre for Academic and Researcher Development (CARD).

The programme provides key transferable skills in areas such as commercial awareness, academic writing and public engagement. This training equips our postgraduates with the tools to progress beyond their research degree into influential positions within academia, industry and consultancy.

The emphasis is on enhancing skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals, whether they relate to effective communication, disseminating research findings and project management skills.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-01-27 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-10-15 00:00:00
Starting 2026-04-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-01-15 00:00:00
Starting 2026-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-15 00:00:00

Language

English

IELTS

7

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TOEFL^® IBT

106

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manchester, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Social Work View 63 other PhDs in Social Work in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

IELTS

7

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TOEFL^® IBT

106

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Other requirements

General requirements

An honours degree (minimum Upper Second (2:1)) or the overseas equivalent in a relevant subject

OR a very good MSc/MPhil/MRes degree from a recognised institution

OR satisfactory work at postgraduate level (which must include some research training) undertaken for the equivalent of at least one year full-time.

The four-year programme is strongly recommended for anyone who:

has not studied in the UK before;

has not completed specific research methods training at master's level and received 'very good' grades;

has not completed a research dissertation at master's level and received 'very good' grades;
English language

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at The University of Manchester and/or in United Kingdom, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

27000 GBP/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 27000 GBP per year during 36 months.
National

4786 GBP/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 4786 GBP per year during 36 months.

UK (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000
International (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500

Living costs for Manchester

645 - 1197 GBP /month

Living costs

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.

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