Social & Public Policy

Entry requirements

Our research degree applicants will usually possess a good Master’s degree (or overseas equivalent), with a significant component in social policy, public policy, or a related social sciences field.

Months of entry

Anytime

Course content

This programme draws on the expertise of academics within our Division of Urban Studies & Social Policy (USSP) and Centre for Public Policy (CPP). USSP is widely recognised as a world-leading centre for innovative, interdisciplinary research with high international impact. CCP works with academics across the University and builds partnerships with the policy community, to foster joint working and evidence-based policymaking.

Our PhD programme in Social & Public Policy is for students who are eager to shape the future of national and international governance and policymaking. This interdisciplinary PhD covers a wide range of related areas including, but not limited to:

• Comparative and international public policy
• Welfare and social security
• Health service and public health policy
• Collaborative governance
• Public service reform
• Public administration
• Policy process and decision making in government

Students will specialize in their chosen topic area, supervised by nationally and internationally renowned academics from our Division of Urban Studies & Social Policy (USSP) and Centre for Public Policy (CPP). Joint supervision and training will be offered where appropriate. Our multidisciplinary approach will provide students with access to a wealth of knowledge and perspectives that will inform their intellectual and professional development.

This programme is designed to attract the next generation of thought leaders in social and public policy. And welcomes both full-time students embarking on academic or professional careers and those already working in relevant sectors, seeking part-time doctoral study to advance their expertise.

Students will benefit from established links between faculty members, government bodies and public service organizations. And where appropriate, will be encouraged to undertake a short internship to gain real-world experience in policy development and implementation. The programme equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to inform and drive meaningful policy change in their chosen field.

Information for international students

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic and Academic Online (not General Training)

• 7.0 overall with no subtest less than 6.5
• IELTS One Skill Retake Accepted
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

Fees and funding

Fees are based on the annual fee for full-time study. Tuition fees for part-time study will be charged at half the full-time annual fee.

Irish nationals who are living in the Common Travel Area of the UK, EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status, and Internationals with Indefinite Leave to remain status can also qualify for home fee status.

Fee status and policies

Alumni discount

We offer a 20% discount to our alumni on all Postgraduate Research and full Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes. This includes University of Glasgow graduates and those who have completed a Study Abroad programme, Exchange programme, International Summer School or Erasmus programme with us. This discount can be awarded alongside most University scholarships. No additional application is required.

Possible additional fees

• Re-submission by a research student £540
• Submission for a higher degree by published work £1,355
• Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed £350
• Submission by staff in receipt of staff scholarship £790

Depending on the nature of the research project, some students will be expected to pay a bench fee (also known as research support costs) to cover additional costs. The exact amount will be provided in the offer letter.