ESRC and NWSSDTP Studentship at University of Manchester 2026

The Economic and Social Sciences Research Council (ESRC) North West Social Sciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) 1+3 studentship provides a unique opportunity to seamlessly transition from a master’s programme to a PhD, ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded academic experience. This studentship provides essential funding for both stages of study and grants you access to valuable resources, training, and expert supervision.

Summary

1. Application Deadline: February 2, 2026
2. Study Level: Master's, PhD
3. Sponsor: University of Manchester
4. City to Study: Manchester
5. Institution: University of Manchester
6. Eligible Countries: All Countries

Eligibility Criteria for ESRC and NWSSDTP Studentship at University of Manchester 2026

1. To apply, you need to meet meet the academic requirements of your preferred programme, as well as those specified by the ESRC NWSSDTP.
2. For the 1+3 pathway, this means holding - or being on track to achieve - a First Class or Upper Second (2:1) UK bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent qualification.

Selection Process

1. Programme application deadlines:
2. Alliance Manchester Business School: 1 December 2025
3. School of Arts, Languages and Cultures: 12 January 2026
4. School of Education, Environment and Development: 19 January 2026
5. School of Social Sciences: 1 December 2025
6. Funding Application Deadline: 5pm, 2 February 2026

Benefits of ESRC and NWSSDTP Studentship at University of Manchester 2026

1. Open to applicants from all backgrounds, and covers full tuition fees and a maintenance allowance for both your master’s and PhD study.
2. The 1+3 format combines a one-year master’s programme with three and a half years of doctoral research - providing a fully funded, structured pathway into postgraduate research.
3. You’ll join a vibrant research community with opportunities to collaborate across a wide range of social science disciplines - encouraging innovative thinking and diverse perspectives.
4. Opportunities for networking and collaboration across various disciplines within social sciences, encouraging innovative approaches and diverse perspectives in research.
5. You'll benefit from tailored training in research methods, data analysis and ethical practice - equipping you with the skills needed to succeed at every stage of your postgraduate journey.

How to Apply

1. Choose your preferred PhD programme.

Select your preferred PhD programme. It must be available through one of the ESRC NWSSDTP pathways. Note: Your taught master’s programme will normally be confirmed after the initial interview stage.

2. Prepare a research proposal

You’ll need to submit a clear, well-developed PhD research proposal (up to 1,500 words).

Proposal guidance is available by School:

1. Alliance Manchester Business School
2. School of Arts, Languages and Cultures
3. School of Environment, Education and Development
4. School of Social Sciences (all programmes except Economics)
5. Economics

3. Find a supervisor

Use our find a supervisor guide to identify potential supervisors in your field of interest.

4. Complete your online application

Complete the online application form for your chosen programme by the stated deadline.

In Section 9 of the application form, enter the following:

1. Type of Funding: Research Council
2. Awarding Body: ESRC NWSSDTP 1+3
3. Status of Funding: Intend to Apply

5. Upload your supporting documents

1. A 1,500-word PhD research proposal. If you revise your research proposal after submitting your application, please attach the latest draft of your proposal along with the ESRC NWSSDTP application form to hums.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.
2. A copy of your bachelor's academic transcript and certificate. If you have completed more than one bachelor's degree, please provide evidence for each.
3. Non-English documents must be accompanied by an official English translation.
4. If your transcript doesn’t show your GPA or weighted average mark, provide an official document confirming this.
5. An up-to-date academic CV detailing your academic record, employment history, publications, and highlighting research-related experience.
6. The names of two academic referees, including one from your most recent institution. Your referees will be contacted via the Referee Portal after your application has been submitted.
7. A certificate or evidence demonstrating your English language ability and proficiency.

6. Submit your NWSSDTP forms by the deadline

Your ESRC NWSSDTP Application Form and Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form must be submitted to hums.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk by 5pm GMT, 2 February 2026.

1. Please note all deadlines are strict and applications received after 5pm will not be included in the competition.

For more details, visit University of Manchester Scholarship webpage

Application Deadline

February 2, 2026

Application Link(s)

• Apply for ESRC and NWSSDTP Studentship at University of Manchester 2026