PhD Studentships in Law and Criminology - University of South Wales

About the Programme

The Centre for Criminology at the University of South Wales is delighted to offer fully funded Wales Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) (ESRC DTP) studentships in Law and Criminology starting in October 2024. The Centre provides world-leading research-led solutions to contemporary and emerging challenges facing society, criminals, victims and the environment; with specialist research groups in substance use, green, global and transnational criminology, homicide and violence, youth justice, probation, custody and vulnerability, and state and non-state responses to crime.

Duration of study:

The duration of study is dependent on prior research experience and training needs which will be assessed by completing an Initial Development Needs Analysis (Initial DNA) at the application stage and a Full DNA prior to award if successful.

Durations of study may vary from - 3.5 to 4.5 years full time (or part time equivalent).

This may include:

• a 1+3.5 programme – support for a research training masters degree (1 year) and PhD (3.5 years), particularly where indicated by the WGSSS’s EDI and Widening Participation goals.

Research in practice placement:

All WGSSS funded students are required to complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3-months in total. All students will have the opportunity to complete a placement in academia, policy, business or civil society organisations.

Entry Criteria:

To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equal to an honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters degree from a UK academic research organisation, or equivalent level. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.  The ability to successfully complete a postgraduate research degree within the expected timeframe must be demonstrated.

International applicants will need to evidence proficiency in English Language - either IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5. in reading and writing components) or a recent master's degree from a UK university, or equivalent level.

Assessment:

Applicants are reminded to submit all relevant documents (transcripts, supporting statement, etc) by the deadline. Due to the volume of applications received, incomplete applications will not be considered.

Short-listed applicants will be invited to interview. As part of the interview process, applicants will be asked to give a short presentation and answer a series of panel questions consistent with previous practice on the pathway during the Wales DTP and guided by the WGSSS’s commitments on EDI. Interviews may be held in person but should also be available through Teams for all students who wish to participate in that way.