About the Scholarship
The ESRC PhD Studentships offered by the Midlands Graduate School Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) provide a unique opportunity for highly motivated individuals to pursue advanced research in the social sciences. Open to both home and international applicants, these fully-funded studentships cover tuition fees and a living stipend, supporting innovative research across 17 interdisciplinary pathways including Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, Health, and Sustainable Development. Applicants can apply directly from undergraduate study, and the programme actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups. With access to world-class supervision, collaborative research networks, and tailored doctoral training, this studentship helps students develop the skills and expertise needed to address local and global social challenges, preparing them for academic, policy, and research careers.
Scholarship Details
- Scholarship Name: ESRC PhD Studentships in the Social Sciences
- Institution/Provider: Midlands Graduate School Doctoral Training Partnership
- Administering Organization: Midlands Graduate School (Aston University, University of Birmingham, De Montfort University, University of Leicester, Loughborough University, University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, University of Warwick)
- Location: Birmingham, Coventry, Leicester, Loughborough, Nottingham, Warwick, UK
- Level of Study: PhD
- Field of Study: Social Sciences (Applied Linguistics, Economics, Education, Health & Wellbeing, Human Geography, Management & Business Studies, Political Science, Psychology, Socio-Legal Studies, Sociology, Social Policy, Criminology, Sport & Exercise Science, Sustainable Development & Climate Resilience, Communication & Media, Area Studies, Cross-disciplinary Methodologies)
- Mode of Study: Full-time / Part-time
- Duration: 3 years (PhD-only) or 1+3.5 years (Masters + PhD)
- Start Date (Expected): October 2026
- Application Mode: Online
- Scholarship Type: Fully-funded, Merit-based
Supported Fields of Study
- Applied Linguistics
- Area Studies
- Communication & Media
- Museum Studies
- Cross-disciplinary Methodologies and Advanced Data Analysis
- Economic & Social History
- Economics
- Education
- Health & Wellbeing
- Human Geography
- Living in a Digital Society
- Management & Business Studies
- Political Science & International Relations
- Psychology
- Socio-Legal Studies
- Sociology, Social Policy, and Criminology
- Sport & Exercise Science
- Sustainable Development, Net Zero, and Climate Resilience
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- Academic Qualifications: Undergraduate degree (Masters not required; some awards ring-fenced for direct-from-undergraduate applicants)
- Nationality/Residency: UK, EU, International applicants
- Language Proficiency: English
- Enrollment Status: Incoming students
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated research potential, strong academic record, motivation for PhD study, and interest in interdisciplinary research.
Not Eligible
- Applicants not meeting the minimum academic or language requirements.
Financial Coverage / Funding Benefits
- Tuition Fees: Fully covered at home rate
- Monthly Stipend/Allowance: Included (amount per ESRC rates)
- Travel Grant: Not specified
- Accommodation Support: Not specified
- Health Insurance: Not included
- Books & Materials: Support provided for research training
- Additional Perks: Access to collaborative networks, training workshops, and career development opportunities
Scholarship Benefits
- Full Tuition Coverage
- Living/Monthly Stipend
- Access to Research Development Opportunities
- Interdisciplinary Networking and Collaboration
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake independent research in the chosen social science pathway
- Participate in training workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects
- Engage with supervisors and research communities across the Midlands Graduate School
Application Process
How to Apply
- Application Mode: Online via university and ESRC portal
- Official Link: Midlands Graduate School Apply
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form
- CV/Resume
- Academic Transcripts
- Personal Statement / Motivation Letter
- Letters of Recommendation
- Proof of Language Proficiency
- Research Proposal (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Now
- Application Deadline: Midday, 13th January 2026 (12:00 GMT)
- Interview/Review Period: Not specified
- Result Announcement: Following application review
- Program Start Date: October 2026
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: Midlands Graduate School
- Official Notification: MGS ESRC PhD Studentships
- Apply Here: Application Portal
📧 Contact for Queries :Email: info@mgsdtp.ac.uk
Stay updated for more scholarships and academic careers: HigherJobz
