Doctorate in Professional Practice (Part-time) (DProf)
The Doctorate in Professional Practice (DProf) integrates part-time doctoral-level study with continuing professional development and is an ideal way of obtaining a doctorate whilst maintaining professional commitments.
The UWTSD programme is one of the few generic DProf programmes in existence worldwide and is uniquely placed to cater for a wide range of professional backgrounds and research topics. The taught Part 1 involves study in a supportive group environment, another unique and valuable aspect of the programme.
Part 1 of the programme helps candidates review their professional learning and build research skills. Part 2 provides support for a major research project focusing on as aspect of candidates’ professional practice.
Course details
- Distance Learning
- Part-time
- English
Why choose this course?
What you will learn
The Programme comprises two main parts. Part 1 (180 credits; duration approx. 2 years, part-time) involves the study of six level 7 modules. This review your existing professional learning, provide research skills and prepare you for Part 2 research. Part 2 of the programme (360 credits; duration approx. 3-4 years, part-time) focuses on a major work-based research project leading to the production of a 60,000-word thesis.
Residential workshops are held at UWTSD Lampeter. All other seminars and tutorials are held at UWTSD Carmarthen and/or online.
Compulsory
(30 credits)
(30 credits)
(30 credits)
(30 credits)
(30 credits)
(30 credits)
(360 credits)
Optional
(30 credits)
(60 credits)
Disclaimer
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We listen to student feedback and insights from industry and from professionals to ensure that course content is high-quality and up-to-date, and that it offers the best possible preparation for your future career or study goals.
For this reason, there might be modifications to the content of your course over time, to keep up to date with changes in the subject area or in the sector. If a module is no longer running, we’ll make sure to keep you informed, and work with you to choose a different suitable module.
Ratings and Rankings
Staff
Our People
You will be taught and supported by a wide range of professional staff and teams here to help you get the university experience you are looking for. Our teaching staff were ranked 2nd in Wales for assessments and feedback (NSS 2023) meaning the comments you get back from your work will help you learn. Our commitment to your learning has seen our students place us as Top 10 in the UK for Lecturers and Teaching Quality. Find out more about our academic staff who teach across our courses.
Further information
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The programme is open to practitioners who have at least five years’ experience of a significant professional role, and who possess an upper second class degree, and ideally a master’s degree or equivalent in addition.
English Language requirements
Candidates need to provide an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no lower than 5.5 in reading and writing, and with no lower than 5.5 in listening or speaking (or equivalent). Please refer to our English Language Policy.
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Each module has its own assessment element involving a mix of presentation, portfolio, and written reports or essay. At the end of Part 2, it is expected that candidates will have produced a 60,000-word thesis based on their research project which should contribute both to individuals’ professional practice and the strategic development of their organisations. Once the thesis has been examined and approved, candidates will have achieved 540 credits and the DProf qualification, along with the title of ‘Dr’.
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Students are expected to attend a residential workshop once a year in West Wales for part one of the programme and will be expected to pay their own travel costs.
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You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available, please visit our Bursaries and Scholarships section.
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All DProf candidates are in employment. The programme is often undertaken because it constitutes a major form of continuous professional development, and enhances career progression.