Fully-Funded ESRC PhD Studentships UK

About the Scholarship

The South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP) is offering 34 fully-funded ESRC-accredited PhD studentships to outstanding researchers in the social sciences. These studentships bring together eight leading universities in the South West of the UK: Bath, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, West of England, Bath Spa, Bournemouth, and Plymouth Marjon. The programme provides exceptional opportunities for doctoral-level study, interdisciplinary research, and career development, preparing scholars to tackle complex social, economic, and environmental challenges. Applicants can pursue disciplinary pathways such as Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Social Policy, and Political Science, or interdisciplinary pathways including Climate Change, Sustainability & Society, Global Challenges & Transformations, Health, Wellbeing & Society, and Sociotechnical Futures & Digital Methods. SWDTP strongly encourages applications from candidates of all socio-economic backgrounds and protected characteristics, fostering inclusive academic growth and international mobility.

Scholarship Details

Scholarship Name: Economic and Social Science Research Council PhD Studentships – South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP)
Institution/Provider: South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP)
Administering Organization: ESRC (Economic and Social Research Council)
Location: Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, UK
Level of Study: PhD
Field of Study: Social Sciences – Economics, Sociology, Political Science, Psychology, Education, Human Geography, Management, Social Work, Social Policy, Social Anthropology, Socio-Legal Studies
Mode of Study: Full-time
Duration: Full PhD Programme Duration (Typically 3–4 years)
Start Date (Expected): September 2026
Application Mode: Online
Scholarship Type: Fully-funded

Supported Fields of Study

Advanced Quantitative Methods
Area & Development Studies
Economic & Social History
Economics
Education
Human Geography
Management and Business Studies
Political Science and International Studies
Psychology
Social Anthropology
Social Policy
Social Work
Socio-Legal Studies
Sociology
Interdisciplinary: Climate Change, Sustainability & Society, Global Challenges & Transformations, Health, Wellbeing & Society, Sociotechnical Futures & Digital Methods

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant social science discipline
Nationality/Residency: UK and International applicants eligible
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL may be required for non-native speakers)
Enrollment Status: Incoming doctoral students

Preferred Qualifications

Previous research experience, publications, or relevant work in social sciences
Demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary research and collaborative projects

Not Eligible

Applicants already enrolled in another PhD programme at SWDTP institutions

Financial Coverage / Funding Benefits

Tuition Fees: Fully Covered
Monthly Stipend/Allowance: Standard UK PhD maintenance stipend
Travel Grant: Opportunities for research travel and fieldwork funding
Accommodation Support: May be available depending on host institution
Health Insurance: Covered through UK NHS provisions for international students
Books & Materials: Research materials and software support provided
Additional Perks: Support for networking, conferences, and career development opportunities

Scholarship Benefits

Full tuition coverage
Living stipend during study
Research support and access to university facilities
Networking and conference opportunities
Guidance for international mobility and interdisciplinary projects

Key Responsibilities

Conduct high-quality doctoral research aligned with chosen pathway
Participate in training and seminars provided by SWDTP
Collaborate with supervisors, industry, or public-sector partners where applicable
Engage in outreach and knowledge exchange activities

Application Process

How to Apply

Application Mode: Online submission
Official Link: Prospective Students and Fellows | SWDTP

Required Documents

Completed application form
CV/Resume
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Personal statement or motivation letter
Letters of recommendation
Research proposal (if applicable)
Proof of English language proficiency (if required)

Important Dates

Application Opens: 1st October 2025
Application Deadline: 9th January 2026, noon GMT
Interview/Review Period: Following deadline, dates communicated by host institutions
Result Announcement: Early 2026
Program Start Date: September 2026