PhD in Palliative Care

Education in palliative care is valued across Europe and also internationally, particularly in resource poor countries. This PhD is the first doctoral programme to be offered globally, and the first to support the education of palliative care professionals - generating knowledge that’s relevant and applicable to their working contexts.

Our prestigious Division of Health Research is home to the International Observatory on End of Life Care and to a number of staff who are internationally recognised experts in this field of study. The PhD in Palliative Care is your chance to work with these world-leading academics on the production of a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge development within your area of professional practice.

Combining innovative distance learning and an annual Academy held at the University, this part-time, flexible degree will help you to gain an understanding of the development of end of life services and movements in different settings and cultures around the world; the models of care that have been adopted; and the issues involved in assessing the impact of these – individually, socially and societally.

Run over 4-5 years (minimum 4 years), your Doctorate begins with a five-day Induction Academy at the University. Each of the subsequent academic years start with an optional three-day Academy. The rest of the course is delivered via e-learning.

Throughout your studies, we will support you as you enhance your leadership skills and effectiveness, and develop advanced skills in research design, practice and dissemination. You’ll foster critical approaches to the review of evidence and improve your written and oral presentation skills.

Years one and two provide you with training in research and the theory and practice relating to end of life care. Your specialist module in Year one is Palliative Care, which is studied alongside the Philosophy of Research, and, Research Design.