School of Law, Education and Society PhD Studentship 2026–27

Overview

The University of Hertfordshire, through its School of Law, Education and Society, offers one fully funded PhD research studentship. This opportunity is available for either three years of full-time study or six years of part-time study, beginning on March 1, 2027. The research must focus on one of three designated project areas: criminal justice and rehabilitation, working in multi-agency partnerships to reduce harms, or prevention strategies.

What you get

The successful candidate receives a full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the program, lasting three years for full-time students or six years for part-time students. Additionally, recipients are provided with a minimum annual bursary of £21,805, which is adjusted on a pro-rata basis for part-time study and reviewed annually following UKRI recommendations.

Who can apply

This studentship is restricted to applicants who maintain permanent residency in the United Kingdom and meet the criteria for Home student fee status. The institution specifically encourages candidates from British Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to apply.

Requirements

Candidates must possess a UK Honours degree at the First-Class or Upper Second-Class level, or an equivalent qualification within a relevant field. Possession of a related postgraduate qualification, such as an LLM, MA, or MSc in a legal or social science discipline, is considered desirable. Furthermore, proposals must strictly fall under one of the three permitted research areas.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit an application form, a cover letter detailing their interest and background relevance, an up-to-date curriculum vitae, copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates, and a research proposal of up to 2,000 words excluding references and bibliography. The proposal must cover a literature review, problem statement, research goals, research questions, methodology, and an original contribution to knowledge. Additionally, two academic references must be sent directly by the referees to the Doctoral College. Complete applications must be emailed with the specified subject line to the designated university admissions address.

Key dates

The closing date for submitting applications is January 4, 2027, at 23:59. The studentship commences on March 1, 2027, while interview dates are to be confirmed.