ESRC PhD Studentships in Education, Management, and Digital Methods
Fully-funded doctoral studentships in social sciences across interdisciplinary pathways at Bath Spa University.
Best for:Best for prospective social science doctoral researchers seeking ESRC funding in education, management, or digital methods.
Overview
Bath Spa University invites potential doctoral students to submit research proposals for ESRC-funded PhD studentships through the South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP). Successful candidates will develop high-impact research within the eligible pathways of Education, Management & Business Studies, or Sociotechnical Futures and Digital Methods. The scheme provides comprehensive financial support, including tuition fees and a living stipend, alongside specialized training and professional placement opportunities. Applicants must first secure supervision alignment with Bath Spa University before being nominated for the broader SWDTP funding competition.
What you'll do
- Develop and refine an independent doctoral research proposal aligned with BSU supervision capabilities.
- Engage with prospective supervisors and pathway leads to discuss research concepts and methodological approaches.
- Submit a complete research proposal to Bath Spa University by the internal institutional deadline.
- Participate in formal interviews and review processes for institutional nomination to the SWDTP.
- Complete the competitive SWDTP application process if nominated by the university.
- Undertake rigorous doctoral-level coursework, professional development, and a three-month research practice placement upon funding award.
Requirements
Degree required: BSc or MSc degree in a relevant social science or related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; standard institutional English language proficiency requirements apply
Instruction: English
- Strong academic record in a relevant social sciences discipline
- Demonstrated ability to formulate an original and rigorous research proposal
- Familiarity with qualitative or quantitative research methodologies
- Effective written and verbal communication skills for academic engagement
- Open to candidates meeting UK ESRC residency and eligibility criteria for home or international fee status
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-08
Interested candidates should review eligible pathways and develop a research proposal. Contact potential supervisors or pathway leads at Bath Spa University to discuss project alignment. Submit the research proposal through the university's online application portal before the internal deadline.
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts
- CV
- References
Contact
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