PhD Health Science
Course overview
The PhD in Health Science from Swansea University is a doctoral research programme geared towards students who want to carry out original research in health science fields. It offers a flexible, supervised environment where students can explore their own research questions, develop advanced skills in methods and analysis, and contribute to health service improvement or academic knowledge. The programme is aimed at students who wish to pursue advanced academic careers, join research organisations, or take leadership roles in health service settings.
Full-time study usually takes three years; part-time options may take up to six years. The research project is agreed upon with the supervisor and progresses through regular review and monitoring. Students may be based at Singleton Park or Bay Campus, depending on the department. Students learn through self-directed research under supervision, complemented by formal training in research methods, ethics, data analysis, and academic writing. Assessment is primarily through the submission of a thesis and successful defence in a viva-voce examination.
Entry requirements
Applicants must present a well-defined research proposal, secure a potential supervisor and provide academic references.
Grade Requirements:
- Applicants to the PhD Health Science programme at Swansea University must normally hold a relevant honours degree at 2:1 level or above and a master’s degree in a discipline related to the planned research.
- Applicants without a master’s may be considered if they hold a first-class honours degree and have a strong research proposal.
English Proficiency:
- The English language requirement for non-native speakers is IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.5.
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 from the PhD Health Science programme can pursue a wide range of roles in research, academia, health services, policy, and consulting. Possible job titles include:
- Research Scientist
- Public Health Consultant
- Clinical Research Manager
- Health Policy Analyst
- Research Fellow in Health Services
Cost of study
For full‐time international students studying the PhD Health Science degree at Swansea University, the annual tuition fee is £20,900. Students should expect a maximum increase of up to 3% in tuition per year.
Admission
To apply for the Swansea University PhD Health Science programme, applicants should submit an online application through the university’s postgraduate research portal. If you need assistance, you can reach out to one of our experienced counsellors at AHZ.
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