SWDTP opportunities

The South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP) is one of the largest doctoral training providers for social scientists in the UK. This strategic partnership is formed by the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Exeter, West of England (UWE) and Plymouth, bringing together social science academic leaders across our 17 disciplinary and interdisciplinary pathways, and representing one of the largest groupings of social scientists in the country.

The SWDTP has been accredited by the Economic and Social Sciences Research Council (ESRC) to offer a hub of world-class social sciences research, and has been allocated 45 ESRC studentships annually. It is part of a national network that is training a new generation of social scientists.

Together, the five universities educate over 5,000 masters and 1,600 doctoral students in the social sciences, and draw on the established research excellence of the partners, including the expertise of more than 750 social science research staff.

The SWDTP offers +3 training where students register for a three-year PhD programme, and 1+3 training which includes one year of research training through a masters programme followed by a three-year PhD programme.

We support doctoral students by developing not only their research skills, but by offering a wide range of training, placements, activities and events as well.  Working in a collaborative way across the five institutions to form part of your cohort.

Information for applicants

To be considered for either 1+3 or +3 training, in the SWDTP discipline pathways of human geography or psychology with the University of Plymouth, you should first read the information on The South West Doctoral Training Partnership page. Then apply for the appropriate programme of study following the instructions provided:

• Apply for human geography
• Apply for psychology