Professional Doctorate in Health (Research)

Further your development as an expert health practitioner or researcher.

Our DHealth course is well-suited to health and social care professionals looking to develop as practitioners and researchers in practice.

This is a part-time distance-learning programme. By utilising web-based delivery, blended with Online Summer School (typically five days in length), the programme aims to meet the learning needs of busy health and social care practitioners.

You will be able to:

• choose your learning style within a flexible environment while benefiting from a multi-professional community

• learn about research methods and conduct independent research whilst remaining in your practice area

• expand your understanding of policy and practice in the context of international healthcare systems and service.

"Supervising students on the PD Health is hugely rewarding. I enjoy guiding and facilitating my students to develop their research ideas and conduct their doctoral research projects. I feel that providing pastoral support is important, working with each student to codevelop the best study plan for them. Helping my students to further develop their research skills and see them grow in confidence toward becoming an independent researcher is hugely gratifying.”

Dr Nikki Coghill, Doctoral Recognition Awards Staff Award Winner 2023

Programme content
Learning

• Design projects

• Doctoral skills online

• Interaction and networking

• Lectures

• Online resources

• Practical sessions

• Real-life case studies

• Research project

• Seminars

• Supervisory team

• Tutorials

• Video materials

• Workshops

Taught content
During the first year of your studies with us (phase 1), your PDA will support and guide your learning needs analysis and personal development planning, along with the development of your Doctoral research project protocol.

At the beginning of your second year (phase 2), we will work with you to appoint your supervisory team, consisting of:

• an Academic Supervisor, based at the University of Bath

• a Practice-based Supervisor, who is an expert in the field in which you wish to conduct your research.

Year one

• Introduction to research

• Research design and methods

• Evidence into practice

• Research project planning

Year two

• Professional issues in health policy

• Professional issues in health practice

• Research project design and development

Teaching takes the form of online units, which include resource libraries, access to all of the online journals (held by the University of Bath Library), and a structured series of activities, online discussion boards and synchronous webinars.

All resources can be accessed through ‘PD Online’ - our bespoke virtual learning environment. You will also be able to submit your assignments on PD Online and communicate directly with staff and your fellow students.

A Summer School is held once a year online. You will be expected to attend the online Summer School in September at the beginning of your first year (phase 1) and at the beginning of your second year (phase 2).

Research content
Once you have passed all units in phases 1 and 2, you will take part in a ‘transfer interview’ to enable you to enter into the research phase of your studies.

This will consist of an oral interview with your academic supervisor and another member of academic staff to discuss your proposed Doctoral project and ensure that it is robust and feasible.

Professional Development
Professional development is a crucial element of doctoral study, not only in supporting your research but also as part of your longer term career development. Our DoctoralSkills workshops and courses will help you build your skills and help you succeed in your doctorate.

Please check the University of Bath website for the most recently published course detail.

• Coursework
• Presentations
• Thesis
• Viva Voce

Assessment description
Assessment consists of a combination of written assignments, literature reviews, research protocols and reflective accounts. There are no written examinations.

You will also produce a portfolio of evidence of application to practice, and have to undertake a face-to-face transfer interview and a final viva.