PhD Health Studies - Health Studies Degree

Program Overview

The PhD in Health Studies at the University of Essex fosters cutting-edge research in diverse physical and mental health contexts. With expert faculty guidance and access to research training programs, students delve into their chosen topics and contribute new knowledge to the field. The program's collaborative nature, with input from Service User Reference Group members, ensures relevance to real-world healthcare experiences. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in clinical, research, or management roles in various health organizations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The PhD in Health Studies at the University of Essex offers a unique opportunity to conduct research in various physical and mental health contexts. The program caters to students interested in the health of the general population or specific population samples. The program boasts a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas, ensuring that students can find a supervisor who aligns with their research interests. The program provides access to Masters-level research methods modules, equipping students with a solid foundation in research knowledge and skills. Additionally, students can benefit from the University's Proficio research training scheme, allowing them to select training programs tailored to their research topics and methodologies. The School of Health and Social Care collaborates closely with the Service User Reference Group (SURG), comprising service users, carers, and volunteers who share their firsthand experiences of health and social care. SURG plays a crucial role in designing courses, ensuring that patient and client needs are prioritized. SURG members participate in course application processes, interview panels, and contribute to teaching sessions and research activities, providing students with valuable insights into lived experiences. The PhD is offered on a 3-year full-time or 6-year part-time basis, with an additional year for completion if needed.

Outline:

The PhD in Health Studies is a research-based degree, allowing students to delve deeply into their chosen topic and generate new knowledge. The program does not have a taught structure, providing students with the flexibility to tailor their research to their specific interests.

Assessment:

The program culminates in a dissertation of 40,000 words on a subject relevant to the student's specialist area of practice. Dissertation workshops are held throughout the academic year to guide students in selecting a topic and writing their research.

Teaching:

The School of Health and Social Care boasts a multi-professional faculty, including clinically qualified lecturers, sociologists, and social policy and management specialists. Many faculty members have clinical and academic credibility and work with local National Health Service (NHS) Trusts and other local agencies, fostering a strong connection between academic research, contemporary issues, and practice. Supervisors guide students in developing research plans and support their self-directed learning. Students also participate in two supervisory panels per year (one for part-time students) to monitor their progress formally.

Careers:

Graduates of the PhD in Health Studies have secured positions in clinical and management roles within Trusts, hospitals, care organizations, local and county councils.

Other:

The School of Health and Social Care has access to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) building and a dedicated PhD room with desk space, PCs, a printer, and shelf space.

Home/UK fee £4,786 per year International fee £18,750 per year Fees will increase for each academic year of study.