Swansea University

PhD Gerontology and Ageing Studies

Swansea University

Course overview

Swansea University’s PhD in Gerontology and Ageing Studies is a three-year doctorate, focusing on the scientific study of ageing and its physiological, psychological, and social aspects. This course is for students who value social care and collaboration.

In this programme, students will learn to conduct research to address the issues of ageing and contribute to policy, safety, healthcare, and community schemes that improve the quality of life for older adults. They will also study psychology, sociology, economics, public health, and medicine to understand the ageing process and its impacts on society.

Additionally, students gain advanced skills in research methods, data analysis, academic writing, and leadership. These skills help them to develop strategies to empower aged people and ensure their well-being. Graduates can also work in academia, government, and policy-making organisations.

Learning in this course is through lectures, online tutorials, small-group learning sessions, workshops, and seminars. Assessment methods include a written thesis and an oral examination, also known as viva voce.

Entry requirements

The application requires candidates to submit one reference to the Faculty. Admission is then decided based on a review of your reference, a standard proposal, an interview, and your professional experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants for a PhD must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level and a master’s degree. Alternatively, applicants with a UK first-class honours degree (or Non-UK equivalent) but who do not hold a master’s degree will be considered on an individual basis.

English Proficiency:

  • International students must obtain an overall IELTS score of 6.5. Alternatively, TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic are also accepted.

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • International Excellence Scholarships

    Scholarships are awarded as a discount on tuition fees worth up to £5,000 in the first year of study, with a further £2,000 awarded in Year 2 (for £5,000 awardees only, subject to achieving a 70% average).

  • International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries

    First Class - £5,000 per year; Second Class, First division - £3,000 per year; Second Class, Second division - £1,000 per year; Taught Masters to Research Degree - £3,000 per year subject to satisfactory progress.

  • Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES)

    The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee rate for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme.

  • Swansea University Sport Scholarship

    Financial support (of up to £2000).

  • Thrive Bursary

    The Thrive bursary is a £4,000 reduction in tuition fees for the first year of study, with a progression bursary of £2,000 in subsequent years (applied as a discount off tuition fees).

    Up to £4,000

Career opportunities

Graduates of the PhD in Gerontology and Ageing Studies from Swansea are equipped to work in roles including:

  • Gerontology Research Scientist
  • Academic Researcher
  • Public Health Specialist
  • Consultant in Ageing Services
  • Social Gerontologist

Cost of study

International postgraduate students opting for the PhD in Gerontology and Ageing Studies at Swansea University will pay a tuition fee of £20,900.

Admission

Submit your application directly through the university's online portal. For expert support, contact an AHZ counsellor today.

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