Funding for PhDs

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) is the body that probably funds most PhDs in the leisure studies field. It supports both full- and part-time PhDs.

From 2002 the ESRC will be funding four-year as well as three-year full-time programmes. The idea is that Masters and PhD programmes are linked; one year is spent on the Masters element and three on the doctoral work. Basically, a Masters degree is now a statutory requirement for funding.

The deadline for applications for 2002/3 was May 1 2002.

The ESRC website provides detailed guidance information for potential PhD students. Application forms are also available on-line at
http://www.esrc.ac.uk/esrccontent/postgradfunding/studentships2002.asp

ESRC studentship awards can consist of four parts:

• 1) payment of approved fees
• 2) maintenance grant for the student including basic maintenance grant, and young dependant's allowances, disabled student's allowance, and mature student's incentive
• 3) expenses for fieldwork overseas
• 4) Research Training Support Grant (RTSG), fieldwork in the UK and conferences. There is separate provision for 'fees only' students and part-time students. (reference: ESRC Student Handbook 2001)

The maintenance grant for UK full-time students for 2001/2 was £7,500 per year (£9,250 for London).

Studentships are also advertised in the press and on-line. Such studentships are usually attached to a specific topic. The supervisor of the research will often interview applicants on a competitive basis. Click here to find out where you can find research opportunities.

Academic departments at Universities welcome inquiries about PhDs from potential students. Contact institutions directly for information.