PhD Medical and Health Care Studies
Course overview
The PhD in Medical and Health Care Studies at Swansea University is a research-based degree that allows students to explore important topics in health, medicine, and care practice. The programme is part of the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, and focuses on improving health outcomes and patient care. Students receive training in research methods, data collection, ethics, and academic writing. The course helps students build strong knowledge in both theory and practice, preparing them for leadership and advanced research roles in healthcare, academia, and public service.
Students will work with expert supervisors who guide them in developing independent research skills. Research areas often include clinical practice, health management, medical technology, and public health. Each student carries out an independent research project that contributes to solving real health problems. Assessment is completely based on the quality of the written thesis and a final oral examination called a viva voce. Students also work closely with healthcare professionals and researchers, gaining experience that supports their future careers.
Entry requirements
Grade Requirements:
- Applicants need to have an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, along with a master’s qualification.
- Applicants who hold a first-class honours degree may be considered without a master’s if they have strong research experience.
English Proficiency:
- For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency is required, such as an IELTS minimum overall score of 6.5 and no section below 6.5 in all skill components.
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 Medical and Health Care Studies from Swansea University often move into senior roles in healthcare, research, and education. Possible job titles include:
- Clinical Research Scientist
- University Lecturer
- Health Policy Advisor
- Medical Research Manager
- Public Health Analyst
Cost of study
For full-time international students, the annual tuition fee to study a PhD in Medical and Health Care Studies at Swansea University is £24,400 per year. Students should expect a maximum increase of up to 3% each year.
Admission
Applicants for the Swansea University PhD in Medical and Health Care Studies programme can apply online through the university’s application portal. If you need assistance, you can reach out to one of our experienced counsellors at AHZ.
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