Equality, diversity and inclusivity amongst our students

SWWDTP continues to actively increase the diversity of students to whom awards are offered. We therefore encourage applications from individuals who respond to any of the nine protected characteristics defined in the Equality Act 2010.

We aim to make at least 5 awards to applicants of the Global Majority, and an additional 3 awards to applicants with disabilities. These are targets to encourage applications, not set quotas; only applications that meet our stringent quality expectations will be offered awards.

We operate in line with all relevant legislation governing positive action and do not make positive discrimination.

Mature applicants

Students of any age are invited to apply, including mature students and those who have taken a break from academic study since their Master’s degree. We also consider applications from mature students with relevant professional experience or knowledge who do not hold an MA.

Applicants with caring responsibilities

We welcome applications from individuals with caring responsibilities. Indeed, many of our students have such responsibilities. Supervisors and the SWWDTP Hub team try to offer as much flexibility as possible. Doctoral work is often intrinsically more flexible than taught courses.

Prior work experience

Prior work experience in your chosen area of interest is not essential. To be eligible for either type of SWWDTP studentship, you should normally have, or be studying for, a Master’s degree or similar postgraduate qualification.

If you do not already have experience of formal postgraduate study, you would be eligible only if you can demonstrate evidence of sustained experience beyond your undergraduate degree that is directly relevant to your proposed research topic and/or methodology that could be considered equivalent to Master’s study.