ASTON UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
The Psychological Burden of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria from Patient and Healthcare Professional Perspectives
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€20k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3 yearsProgramme length
- Birmingham, UKStudy Location
- Partially-fundedFunding Type
- October 2026Next Start Date
This PhD project at Aston University investigates the psychological impact of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) in the UK, a condition characterized by unpredictable hives and swelling that persists for over six weeks. Despite its significant effect on mental health and quality of life, CSU has been under-researched, particularly within the UK healthcare context. The research aims to gather insights from both patients and healthcare professionals to understand their experiences. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, including interviews with patients and healthcare professionals to explore their perspectives on CSU and the UK healthcare system. A cross-sectional survey will be conducted to quantify CSU's impact on quality of life across the UK. Finally, focus groups will be organized to collaboratively develop strategies for improving patient care pathways for CSU.
Careers
A PhD from Aston University opens doors to careers in academia, research, and innovation-driven industries. The program equips graduates with highly specialized research skills and valuable transferable skills essential for high-level roles.
- Academic Researcher
- Research and Development Specialist
- Problem Solver
- Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International tuition fees are £17,712 per year for 2026/7. Overseas applicants are responsible for paying the difference between Home and Overseas tuition fees and must confirm this in their application.
- How long does the PhD programme last?
- The programme length is 3 years.
- When does the next programme start?
- The next start date is October 2026.
- What are the academic entry requirements?
- Applicants typically need a First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree from a UK institution (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. A postgraduate Masters degree with Merit or above in a relevant subject is also considered. An undergraduate degree in psychology and a postgraduate qualification in health psychology or a similar field are preferred.
- How do I apply for this PhD programme?
- You need to complete the online application form via Aston University's PhD application portal, selecting the relevant subject area. Overseas applicants must confirm their additional funding for tuition fees in the application.
- Is this PhD programme funded?
- This is a Partially-funded programme. Home tuition fees are covered by the project for eligible candidates.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate Degree (Bachelors or UG Masters)First or Upper Second Class award from a UK institution in a relevant subject, OR equivalent from an overseas institution.
Postgraduate Masters DegreeMerit (or above) in a relevant subject from a UK institution, in addition to a relevant undergraduate degree, OR equivalent from an overseas institution.
BackgroundAn undergraduate degree in psychology and a postgraduate qualification in health psychology or a similar field are preferred. Research experience in this area is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided.
Aston University reserves the right to assess the equivalence of overseas qualifications according to its own criteria.
Fees
Tuition (international)International tuition fees are £17,712 per year for 2026/7, which is the difference between the 'Home' fees and the 'Overseas' fees. This project covers the Home tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Home tuition fees are covered by the project for eligible candidates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided; students should budget separately for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Overseas applicants are responsible for paying the difference between the Home and Overseas tuition fees (£17,712 for 2026/7) and must confirm this additional funding in their application.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online Application FormApply through Aston University's PhD application form. When completing the form, select 'Health and Life Sciences' for University College and 'Research Health Sciences (including Optometry, Pharmacy, and Psychology Research Areas)' for Degree Programme, indicating your preferred entry date (e.g., October 2026).
2. Confirm Funding for Overseas ApplicantsIf you are an overseas applicant, you must confirm in the funding section of your application form that you will provide the additional funding to cover the difference between Home and Overseas tuition fees.
3. Await Offer LetterThe university will review your application and, if successful, send you an offer letter. This letter will specify deadlines for accepting the offer and any conditions you need to meet.
4. Accept Your Offer and Pay DepositAccept your offer by the deadline stated in your offer letter and pay any required deposit. The time frame for acceptance varies based on your application date; applying closer to the final deadline means less time to respond. Contact pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk for extension requests, which are considered on a case-by-case basis.
5. Meet Offer ConditionsEnsure all conditions specified in your offer letter are met by the final deadline, which will be communicated by the university's Visa Team or via CAS Shield submission deadlines. This includes submitting all necessary academic and English language proficiency documents.
6. Apply for Visa (International Students)International students requiring a visa must apply for one. Any applications received on or after the final application deadline may require a super priority visa, for which you must receive confirmation of eligibility from the university's Visa Team.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International tuition fees are £17,712 per year for 2026/7. Overseas applicants are responsible for paying the difference between Home and Overseas tuition fees and must confirm this in their application.
How long does the PhD programme last?
+
The programme length is 3 years.
When does the next programme start?
+
The next start date is October 2026.
What are the academic entry requirements?
+
Applicants typically need a First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree from a UK institution (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. A postgraduate Masters degree with Merit or above in a relevant subject is also considered. An undergraduate degree in psychology and a postgraduate qualification in health psychology or a similar field are preferred.
How do I apply for this PhD programme?
+
You need to complete the online application form via Aston University's PhD application portal, selecting the relevant subject area. Overseas applicants must confirm their additional funding for tuition fees in the application.
Is this PhD programme funded?
+
This is a Partially-funded programme. Home tuition fees are covered by the project for eligible candidates.