PhD American Studies at Swansea University

Programme overview

Research degree in American Studies at Swansea University's Singleton Park Campus, with a substantial project led by the student's own interests, examined by thesis and viva.

Faculty: School of Culture and Communication | Department: American Studies | Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time | Intake: October 2026 or January, April or July 2027 | Location: Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom

What you will study

Original research towards a thesis of up to 100,000 words (PhD) or 60,000 words (MPhil), supported by skills training, departmental seminars and the postgraduate conference. Staff expertise covers the American Civil War, US foreign policy, the US war on drugs, US politics, surveillance and urban America, American conservatism, American military history and 20th-century American literature, film and popular culture.

Career pathways

Pathway to a career in academia, or employment in education, government or the private sector.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

PhD: Applicants must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2:1 level (or non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) and a master's degree with a minimum overall grade of Merit; applicants with a UK first-class honours degree (or equivalent) and no master's degree are considered individually. International applicants: IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.5, or a Swansea-recognised equivalent. One reference is required. Admissions decisions may also take into account the standard of the research proposal, performance at interview, competition for places and relevant professional experience.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,006 a year (2025/26). UK student full-time annual rate (2025/26 entry point); part-time is half. Charged over the minimum candidature period. Bench fees may apply. Source

International applicants: GBP 19,300 a year (2026/27). full-time tuition, Year 1 fee; fees in later years increase by 3%. Source

Intake: October 2026 or January, April or July 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

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