Postgraduate research develops your specialist knowledge in a specific field of study. Working closely with a senior academic, you conduct an original research project that could have a far-reaching impact on the global community.
If you're looking to study a research degree at Kent, we recommend you choose a topic and identify an appropriate supervisor before you apply.
Research needs an open mind, resilience, a willingness to ask, and answer, difficult questions and the ability to collaborate. It also needs funding. That's why we've devised a range of packages to ensure you have financial support, including funding for American students and loans for Canadian students.
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 has confirmed Kent as a leading research university, with the majority of our submissions rated as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Kent also rises by 11 places to 38 in the Times Higher Education’s ranking for overall quality in the REF.
Medieval and Early Modern Studies PhD
It’s important to stay focused and be disciplined with my time.
Sociology PhD
Studying at PG level opened so many doors for me, there were loads of opportunities thrown at me.
Mathematics PhD
I like the supervision arrangements, the learning environment, the fact that there is an office for PhD students with computers, printers and other learning materials, and there’s a kitchen.
See your PhD as part of your career, not something that comes before it. Talk to people at conferences, other departments, in policy institutions and in industry.
Drama PhD
We wanted to help people who can be socially excluded from theatre, who don't have a voice.
Physics PhD
I enjoy developing my research skills and analysis techniques and I also like being part of the wider research community, attending workshops and conferences.
All research programmes involve a majority of independent study but can also be delivered in different ways. You can study full-time, part-time or by distance learning. You can also study a jointly supervised PhD, external research degree or professional training.
Our January and May start dates give you even more opportunities to apply for postgraduate funding.
Candidates from outside the University may apply to the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy by means of submitting published works.
For dual research awards (or cotutelles), you are jointly supervised by Kent and a university in another country.
Our external research programme allows you to stay in your home country while studying for a fully accredited UK qualification.