Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) in Social Work

University of the West of Scotland

Social Work Research A PhD in Social Work offers a valuable opportunity to explore a range of social issues through a social justice lens. The aim of social work research is to enhance society by its impact on crucial dimensions of social policy, law, and contemporary practice. Social work research is anchored in values of social justice, human rights, co-production, inclusiveness, anti-racist and radical practice. As a researcher in social work, you will develop and hone your skills, knowledge, and expertise across a range of social science methodologies and tools. Your research will focus on making a positive impact on the wellbeing of communities, individuals, and society. Overarching topics of interest may include social inequality, domestic violence, honour-based abuse, peace-conflict studies, criminal justice, refugee studies, sexual offending, addiction and dependency studies, social work law & policy, and health inequalities, through to dimensions of professional practice and the professional development of social work practitioners. Our social work researchers, located within the Division of Psychology and Social Work within the School of Education and Social Sciences (ESS), conduct internationally excellent research on many of the most pressing issues in social work practice, policy, and education. Our PhD graduates have gone on to academic positions within University of the West of Scotland and other universities and senior careers in social work, government, education and the third sector. As a doctoral student in Social Work, you will get the opportunity to work alongside an active and supportive research team that has strong established links with local, national, and international social work providers and users.