Note for Prospective candidates for research in the field of Social Work

Prospective candidates for research in the field of Social Work only should note the following generic guidelines for Social Work Research Students

The main focus of social work research at the University of Ulster is on:

• Understanding professional issues associated with helping vulnerable members of society, particularly in relation to decision making, assessment, risk, vulnerability, abuse, resilience, crime, addiction, attachment, loss, disability and trauma, and
• Promoting good professional practice in social work and in social care organisations including evidence based practice, management and skills in education and training.

Within these parameters, supervision is offered particularly by:

• Prof Mary McColgan (m.mccolgan@ulster.ac.uk): family and child care
• Dr Anne Campbell (a.campbell@ulster.ac.uk): addictions and criminal justice
• Dr Roger Manktelow (r.manktelow@ulster.ac.uk): mental health and learning disability
• Dr Brian Taylor (bj.taylor@ulster.ac.uk): older people, physical disability & hospital social work.

There is a strong emphasis on systematically reviewing previous research as part of any PhD in social work. Methods used by current and recent PhD students include factorial surveys and repertory grids to study decision making, a randomized controlled trial to study effectiveness (of cognitive behavioural therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder caused by civil conflict) and Q-sort methodology to study values underpinning professional decisions as well as the more common qualitative and survey designs. There is particular interest in extending our research relating to decisions, assessment, risk and evidence to inform practice across all client groups.

The successful candidate for a PhD will need to have:

• knowledge of relevant professional social work services, issues, standards, policies and legislation;
• basic skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods; and
• well-developed ability in reflective practice and original thought.

Applications should be in the region of 2000 words and should demonstrate a clear focus, an understanding of the proposed methodology, expected outcomes and benefits for the profession.

Social work graduates should note that continuing registration with the NI Social Care Council is essential for any academic post in social work. Undertaking research does not fulfill the requirements for your Assessed Year in Employment which is required of new graduates for full professional registration.

If you would like to discuss your ideas please contact one of the above supervisors or the lead for research in social work: Dr Brian Taylor (bj.taylor@ulster.ac.uk)