About the Project
Journalism, Digital Media & Democracy Pathway
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
The School of Journalism, Media and Culture (Cardiff University) and the Department of Media and Communications (Swansea University) are delighted to offer a fully funded Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) (ESRC DTP) studentship opportunity in the Journalism, Digital Media & Democracy Pathway starting in October 2027.
Entry Criteria:
To receive WGSSS studentship funding, you must have qualifications or experience equivalent to a UK honours degree at a first or upper second-class level, or a masters. Students with non-traditional academic backgrounds are also welcome to apply.
Duration of study:
The duration of study varies from 3.5 to 4.5 years full time (or part time equivalent).
The duration of study is dependent on prior research experience and training needs of the student which will be assessed by completing a Development Needs Analysis. We welcome applications for both full and part-time study.
Research in practice placement:
All WGSSS funded students are required to complete a funded Research in Practice placement of 3-months in total (or part-time equivalent). All students will have the opportunity to complete a placement in academia, policy, business or civil society organisations.
Eligibility:
WGSSS studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students. International students will not be charged the fee difference between the UK and international rate. Applicants should satisfy the UKRI eligibility requirements.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:
WGSSS is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.
Assessment:
Short-listed applicants will be invited to a short interview online. As part of the interview process, applicants will be asked to answer a series of panel questions about their proposed project, as well as their relevant skills and experience.
How to apply:
Applications should be received no later than 14 December 2026 including all required documents. Due to the volume of applications received, incomplete applications will not be considered.
All applications should be submitted via email to JOMEC-PGR@cardiff.ac.uk.
Please include the following documents with your application:
- WGSSS Studentship Application Form 2027 (you can download this here)
- Academic CV (two pages maximum)
- 2 academic or professional references (candidates must approach referees themselves and include references with their application. The reference must detail the applicant's research strengths).
- Degree certificates and Transcripts (including translations if applicable)
- If relevant, proof of English Language Competency (see institutional requirements for entry)
Applicants should identify a potential supervisor before submitting their application. Information on staff research specialisms can be found on the respective webpages Swansea University and Cardiff University.
Further information on the timeline for processing applications is available on the WGSSS website.
Funding:
The studentship funded by the ESRC covers tuition fees, an annual tax-free living stipend of in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £21,805) and includes access to a Research Training Support Grant.
If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.
Information available in Welsh on request.