The structure and duration of the studentship offered will depend on a candidate's previous academic experience, and social research training and experience. ESRC studentships are applicable to both full-time and part-time study.
Training is delivered through a flexible portfolio of options.
Fractional Awards
Where a student lacks some of the core (conceptual, general research and subject / field knowledge) skills required to commence a PhD they may be allocated funding to enable them to undertake the additional training requirements as well as their PhD, for example 3.75 or 4 years.
Applications for ESRC funding for MSc or MRes programmes linked to a PhD (1+3.5 or 2+2.5)
The 1+3.5 or 2+2.5 scheme provides funding for a one- or two-year research training master's (MSc or MRes) linked to a PhD programme and is designed for students who have not already completed an ESRC recognised programme of research training.
See How to apply for research funding for information on the general process and deadlines. In addition:
- on the application for admission, mark the tick box specifically for 1+3 funding (the tick box is only there for one year MSc programmes which are ESRC approved and linked to ESRC eligible MPhil/PhD programmes)
- submit a research proposal for the PhD element of the programme
The master's application is considered first, then the application is passed to the Doctoral Programme Director to be considered for nomination for ESRC funding. If nominated, the general process and timelines apply.
Applications for ESRC funding for direct entry to an MPhil/PhD programme (+3.5)
There is no additional application process in order to be considered for a +3.5 ESRC Studentship.
See How to apply for research funding for information on the general process and deadlines.