The Professional Doctorate (SSPD) is a part-time doctoral research degree, equivalent to the PhD but different in that it is professionally orientated to focus on ‘applied research, rather than ‘pure research.

The programme has been designed for experienced practitioners and managers working at senior levels within their chosen profession and provides the opportunity to examine leading theories and research in a professional context.

Based in the School of Social Sciences the SPPD draws on the expertise from a range of disciplines including Education, Politics, Sociology, Social Policy, Economics, and Philosophy which combine to offer a programme which is both integrated and multi-disciplinary.

The SPPD at Swansea is research led throughout, supported by academics with international reputations for excellence. The taught modules are designed to support you to systematically acquire a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of research and practice, as well as an understanding of advanced research methods. Throughout your academic experience, you will receive increased contact with cutting edge research, augmenting an understanding of a wide range of issues with support from the Programme Director and your supervisor via online and in-person meetings.