Doctorate in Professional Practice (DProf)

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

The Doctorate in Professional Practice (DProf) is a research degree designed for experienced professionals who want to develop their expertise, improve their practice and lead change within their field. It is ideal for those who wish to carry out meaningful research without stepping away from their careers. The programme blends academic rigour with real-world relevance, focusing on work-based research that makes a genuine impact in professional settings. This part-time degree allows you to investigate issues that are directly connected to your day-to-day work. Whether you’re working in education, health, business, the public sector or the creative industries, the DProf supports you to question, explore and improve the practices and systems that matter most in your profession. You’ll be encouraged to reflect on your professional development, apply research methods in practical contexts, and create original insights that can inform future practice. What sets this programme apart is its flexible, supportive structure. Part 1 focuses on reviewing your professional learning and building your research skills through taught modules delivered in a collaborative, small group setting. This creates a shared learning environment where ideas and experiences are exchanged across a range of professions. Part 2 centres on a major work-based research project, culminating in a 60,000-word thesis. This allows you to investigate a significant issue in your field and produce a piece of research that has real-world application.