PhD Social Sciences

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Postgraduate research in the School of Social and Political Sciences is informed by the expertise of its team of academics, who have long-standing links to industry, government, research organisations, and the voluntary sector.

Opportunities for research are available across a range of topics in social and political sciences. Current students' research projects include:

• the 1984/5 miners' strikes
• gender and violence
• preventive diplomacy
• educational inequality
• female labour migration
• the 21st Century free party scene

Research Areas, Projects and Topics

Staff have the expertise for postgraduate supervision in the following research areas:

• Gender and violence
• Fatherhood
• Family
• Terrorism
• Culture and inequality
• Sex work
• Rural community
• Homelessness

Fees and Funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.

How You Study

Research students can enrol for MPhil or PhD awards. These degrees are normally undertaken wholly by the thesis and can be carried out either on a full-time or a part-time basis.

The School aims to provide appropriate support to enable students to become independent researchers. Students are required to follow a structured pattern of activity during which their progress can be monitored and encouraged. Students are allocated two supervisors and the emphasis is on providing whatever training is required, as well as the development of knowledge.

Students are asked to contribute to the School's research seminar series, are able to apply for funding to attend conferences, and are encouraged to publish their work and develop links with appropriate external networks.

Research students normally have two internal supervisors with specialist knowledge relevant to the student's subject area and research methods, and have regular meetings with them for advice, monitoring, and other support. Students can engage with external experts and advisors as necessary.

Students may also have the opportunity to contribute to teaching, subject to the necessary training.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, a significant portion of time will be spent on independent study and research. Students will meet with their academic supervisors at least once a month full-time students, and every two months for part-time students.

Prioritising Face-to-Face Teaching

At the University of Lincoln, we strive to ensure our students’ experience is engaging, supportive, and academically challenging. Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we have adapted to Government guidance to keep our students, staff, and community safe. All remaining Covid-19 legal restrictions in England were lifted in February 2022 under the Government’s Plan for Living with Covid-19, and we have embraced a safe return to in-person teaching on campus. Where appropriate, face-to-face teaching is enhanced by the use of digital tools and technology and may be complemented by online opportunities where these support learning outcomes.

We are fully prepared to adapt our plans if changes in Government guidance make this necessary, and we will endeavour to keep current and prospective students informed.

Entry Requirements 2023-24

• PhD: Master's degree with a research component.

How You Are Assessed

A PhD is usually awarded based on the quality of the student's thesis and ability to present and successfully defend their chosen research topic in an oral examination (viva voce). They are also expected to demonstrate how their research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theories or understandings.

Career and Personal Development

This programme can help students develop the high-level research skills and knowledge required to establish a career in fields related to their research. Some graduates may pursue roles in research, government, the criminal justice system, local authorities, and other public services, as well as academia.

How to Apply

To support your experience within the postgraduate research community, new students are encouraged to enrol in October, February or May.

In addition to meeting peers across the University who are starting their research programme at the same time, there is access to a central training programme designed around the first three months of study, and targeted support aligned to each stage of the postgraduate research journey. Alternative enrolment dates may be agreed upon with your supervisor on an individual basis.

How You Study

Research students can enrol for MPhil or PhD awards. These degrees are normally undertaken wholly by the thesis and can be carried out either on a full-time or a part-time basis.

The School aims to provide appropriate support to enable students to become independent researchers. Students are required to follow a structured pattern of activity during which their progress can be monitored and encouraged. Students are allocated two supervisors and the emphasis is on providing whatever training is required, as well as the development of knowledge.

Students are asked to contribute to the School's research seminar series, are able to apply for funding to attend conferences, and are encouraged to publish their work and develop links with appropriate external networks.

Research students normally have two internal supervisors with specialist knowledge relevant to the student's subject area and research methods and have regular meetings with them for advice, monitoring, and other support. Students can engage with external experts and advisors as necessary. Students may also have the opportunity to contribute to teaching, subject to the necessary training.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programs, a significant portion of time will be spent on independent study and research. Students will meet with their academic supervisors at least once a month full-time students, and every two months for part-time students.

Research areas:

Research supervision is available across a range of disciplines within the School. Staff in sociology invite applications in the following areas:

• Crime and deviance
• Culture and inequality
• Gender and sexuality
• Political sociology
• Sociology of work
• Youth subcultures

How You Are Assessed

Research degrees are usually awarded based on the quality of the student's thesis and ability to present and successfully defend their chosen research topic in an oral examination (viva voce). They are also expected to demonstrate how their research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theories or understanding.

Students enrolled on the MPhil programme will be given the opportunity to upgrade to a PhD. This will usually involve the submission of a report and an internal viva.

A doctoral qualification can be the capstone of academic achievement and often marks the beginning of a career in academia or research. A research program provides the opportunity to become a true expert in your chosen field while developing a range of valuable transferable skills that can support your career progression. A research-based degree is also the most direct pathway to an academic career. PhDs and research degrees are a great chance to expand your network and meet diverse people with similar interests, knowledge, and passion.

The University’s Doctoral School provides a focal point for Lincoln’s community of researchers, where ideas and experiences can be developed and shared across disciplines. It also offers support and training to help equip you for both academic and non-academic careers.