DASR brochure As a Doctor of Applied Social Research student in the School of Applied Social Science you will follow a programme of study that will allow you to develop your skills as a researcher before working with experienced supervisors on the conduct of an original piece of research. * A Doctorate for Professionals Course objectives Our Professional Doctorate programme is very flexible - you are able to take a tailored pathway through your studies. Currently there are six professional pathways: Housing; Social Work; Dementia Studies; Drug and Alcohol Studies; Crime and Criminal Justice and Social Research. In the taught components of the programme, each route allows you to work together with other professionals to build key research skills while also deepening your professional development through a range of specialist options. You will then complete an assignment based on a professional project within the workplace. This will connect your research skills and real-world experience, encouraging you to engage reflexively at an advanced level over your professional role and practice. The thesis then provides an opportunity for advanced research on a topic of your choice. * The Professional Doctorate programme is open to experienced executives or professionals. * The award of Doctor of Applied Social Research is equivalent to a PhD. * Doctoral students will demonstrate scholarship, methodological expertise, a contribution to knowledge about practice and a contribution to practice. * Directed study for the Professional Doctorate is on a part-time basis over two or three years, followed by the Thesis. Benefits to sponsoring organisations It is expected that many Professional Doctorate students will be supported by their organisations. The benefits to sponsoring organisations include: * In-depth Doctoral study driven by an issue relevant to the continued development of the organisation; * Generation of ideas and critical thinking; * Development of key individuals; * Rigorous process of learning providing depth and insight; * Clear identifiable outputs through the process; * Interactive and facilitative process; * Stirling expertise in applied social science and research training.

As a practitioner as well as a research student, you will find a supportive home within the school for putting research into practice and having a direct impact on people’s lives. Professional Doctorate candidates also frequently find themselves at the forefront of cutting-edge developments and initiatives in their organisations. You may find this helps you to develop your career to a new level, or to open up interesting consultancy opportunities. You may also choose to carry out further research and build an academic career.