PhD study in Social Work

The discipline of Social Work welcomes students wanting to study for a PhD and become part of a vibrant academic community.

PhD in Applied Social Science

We offer a PhD in Applied Social Science, which allows you to pursue original research into the systems, structures and policies that shape social welfare and the lives of children, families and communities.

As a doctoral researcher, you will join a values-led discipline committed to advancing equity, human rights and social transformation, while developing as an independent scholar whose work engages critically with practice, policy and theory.

Applied Social Science PhD
Two student sat at a bench table chatting in the sunshine

Why Lancaster?

  • A discipline with a strong international reputation for social work and social policy research
  • A research culture shaped by commitment to justice, equity and inclusion
  • Interdisciplinary links with law, sociology, criminology, health and policy studies
  • Expert supervision and tailored training through Lancaster’s Research Training Programme (RTP)
  • A welcoming environment for practitioners and policy professionals, where practice and policy experience is valued and connected to research