South East Technological University (SETU) has joined four other Irish universities in a new national initiative offering criminal justice professionals the opportunity to undertake a part-time PhD, with 50% of their tuition fees covered over six years.
The Criminal Justice Professionals' Doctoral Training Partnership (CJP-DTP) will support five professionals to undertake applied research aimed at improving policy, professional practice and outcomes for communities affected by the criminal justice system.
The partnership brings together SETU, Dublin City University, Maynooth University, University College Cork and the University of Limerick, with each institution providing a 50% tuition fee waiver for one successful applicant.
Established through the Criminal Justice Open Research Dialogue (CORD) Partnership, the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between researchers, policymakers and practitioners across Ireland.
"This partnership creates an opportunity for professionals to investigate challenges they encounter in their work, contribute to meaningful policy and practice developments, and ultimately improve outcomes for individuals, families and communities."
Research delivering meaningful societal impact
Professor Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of research that responds to societal challenges.
An internationally recognised researcher in public health, human rights and social inequalities, Professor Van Hout has extensive experience researching prison health, substance use, detention settings and the experiences of marginalised populations.
"Throughout my research career, I have seen how bringing academic expertise together with the knowledge and experience of frontline professionals can generate evidence that genuinely improves people's lives," Professor Van Hout said.
She continued, "This partnership creates an opportunity for professionals to investigate challenges they encounter in their work, contribute to meaningful policy and practice developments, and ultimately improve outcomes for individuals, families and communities. It aligns strongly with SETU's commitment to engaged, impactful research."
Supporting doctoral research and professional development
At SETU, Dr Niamh Maguire and Dr Fionnuala Brennan will participate as prospective doctoral supervisors. Both are based in the Department of Law and Criminal Justice, School of Humanities, SETU Waterford, headed by Dr Michael Bergin.
Successful applicants will undertake a part-time PhD over six years, supported by academic supervisors and a national cohort of doctoral researchers. They will also benefit from collaborative advanced training, knowledge exchange and opportunities to translate research findings into practice.
"By combining financial support with a flexible doctoral pathway and experienced academic supervision, this initiative enables professionals to develop as researchers while continuing their careers. It also enriches our postgraduate research community by bringing valuable real-world perspectives into the university."
Dr Brian Jackson, Head of Graduate Studies at SETU, said the initiative would make doctoral education more accessible to experienced professionals.
"For many people working in demanding professional roles, undertaking a PhD can seem out of reach, despite the wealth of knowledge and experience they bring," Dr Jackson explained.
"By combining financial support with a flexible doctoral pathway and experienced academic supervision, this initiative enables professionals to develop as researchers while continuing their careers. It also enriches our postgraduate research community by bringing valuable real-world perspectives into the university."
Applications now open
Applications are invited from employees of public, publicly funded and non-profit organisations in the Republic of Ireland whose work relates to crime or criminal justice, broadly defined.
Applicants must meet their chosen university's doctoral admission requirements, be resident in Ireland and eligible for EU tuition fees. They must also secure the support of a prospective supervisory team and seek support from their employer.
Employer support may include assistance with remaining tuition fees, dedicated study time, access to organisational resources or involvement in developing and applying the research.
Five awards are available nationally, including one hosted by SETU. Each award covers 50% of part-time PhD tuition fees over six years, subject to satisfactory academic progress and institutional requirements. Successful candidates must also secure formal admission to their chosen doctoral programme.
Applications close at 5pm on Friday, 9 July 2027
Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact a participating supervisor and discuss their research proposal with their employer before applying.
Full eligibility criteria, participating supervisors and application guidance are available in the CJP-DTP Call for Applications.
Applications should be submitted to [email protected]. For enquiries, contact Dr Ian Marder, Chair of the CORD Partnership, at the same address.
