Psychology: Fully Funded ESRC Wales Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) PhD Studentship in the Psychology Pathway

Swansea University, supported by the ESRC Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS), invites applications for a Ph.D. in Psychology, available to start in October 2025.  

This interdisciplinary pathway focuses on social science aspects of psychology (social, cognitive, developmental, environmental, health, clinical, and forensic) and understanding issues of societal importance/ESRC priorities such as climate change and sustainability, and improving health, and well-being. Swansea has particular strengths in forensic and health psychology, nutrition and appetite, behavioural addiction, and sustainable well-being. We also have a number of strategic partnerships with the Health Board, the Welsh Government, local charities, the food industry, His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, and others and many students benefit from these opportunities to perform impactful research with lasting benefits.  

Swansea is home to a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive PGR community that benefits from an annual faculty-wide PGR conference, PGR festival, newly refurbished state-of-the-art Psychology laboratories, and dedicated PGR Academy that provides critical support and training opportunities. 

Duration of study: The duration of study is dependent on prior research experience and training needs which will be assessed by completing an Initial Development Needs Analysis (Initial DNA) at the application stage and a Full DNA prior to award if successful. 

Duration of study may vary from 3.5-4.5 years, full-time (or part-time equivalent) dependent on your prior research experience. Swansea University, in conjunction with colleagues in the WGSS, will undertake an assessment of the successful applicant’s training needs and work with them to tailor the training they are offered to meet their research needs. This might take the form a full master's course, or might be comprised of individual courses designed to enhance skills required for their chosen area of study.

Research in practice placement:  All WGSSS funded students are required to complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3-months in total (or part-time equivalent). All students will have the opportunity to complete a placement in academia, policy, business or civil society organisations.   

Eligibility

To receive ESRC studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equal to an honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters from a UK academic research organisation. 

Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.

WGSSS studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students. International students will not be charged the fee difference between the UK and international rate. Applicants should satisfy the UKRI eligibility requirements.  

The WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation. 

We welcome applications for both full and part-time study.

English Language: IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent.

Funding

The studentship funded by the ESRC covers tuition fees and an annual tax-free living stipend in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £19,237 for 2024/25).

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.  

Students also have access to a Research Training Support Grant, worth up to £940 per year.

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