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We offer two types of research degree: an MPhil or a PhD - in health services management and related disciplines such as health policy, health sociology and leadership.

Prospective applicants for research degrees in any aspect of health service management and health care policy are invited to apply, outlining their special interests. As part of their application, candidates will need to submit an outline proposal of their research topic. Find out more about writing a proposal for HSMC.

All research degree programmes may be undertaken either by full-time study or, for home and EU students only, by part-time study. Unfortunately, we do not currently offer distance learning courses for postgraduate research, although we are exploring the possibility of offering this in the future.

All research degree programmes may be undertaken either by full-time study or, for home and EU students only, by part-time study. Unfortunately, we do not currently offer distance learning courses for postgraduate research, although we are exploring the possibility of offering this in the future.

Research areas

Theories and concepts of the social sciences underpin the approaches of HSMC research staff. HSMC offers the opportunity to study for research degrees in a wide variety of topics relating to health services policy and management, including:

• Health Policy and Reform
• Decision making and strategic planning
• Service and quality improvement
• Public, patients and communities
• Leadership and management
• Workforce and professions

HSMC staff bring their wide knowledge of UK and international health systems (gained through research and consultancy activities, as well as their own professional experience) to their teaching and tutorial support for students. This emphasis on combining theory and practice is maintained throughout all of our programmes.

If I gain a postgraduate research degree in this area, what are my career prospects?

The skills you will gain from studying in the School are highly sought after in most jobs or professions, as you will develop analytical skills and the ability to gather, assess and interpret data, all of which require clear and logical thinking. Birmingham's School of Social Policy postgraduates enter a wide range of occupational sectors: the majority in the public sector in areas such as youth work but others including events, sales administration and education. Many graduates also opt to continue in academia.