PhD Medieval and Early Modern Studies at University of Kent

Programme overview

Research degree in medieval and early modern studies within an interdisciplinary centre drawing staff from English, History, Architecture, Classical and Archaeological Studies, History and Philosophy of Art, and the Canterbury Archaeological Trust. Students have access to Canterbury Cathedral Archives and Library holdings of manuscripts and early printed books.

Department: Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Studies | Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time, 6 to 7 years part-time | Intake: September, January, April | Study mode: full-time or part-time (Canterbury) | Location: Canterbury, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research topics include the Reformation, visual and manuscript culture, community, the plays of John Lyly, medieval ecclesiastical architecture, priory management, vernacular language and kingship. The Centre runs a weekly research seminar, termly public lectures, conferences and colloquia.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first or upper-second class honours degree in a relevant subject (or equivalent) and, normally, a taught MA qualification. English language (international applicants): Excellent level (CEFR C1), for example IELTS 7.0 with at least 7.0 in each component or PTE Academic 76 with at least 76 in each sub-test; a UK degree or a degree from a majority English-speaking country is also accepted.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Indicative full-time UK postgraduate research fee for 2026/27 given as a guide only; the 2027/28 rate had not yet been set. Source

International applicants: GBP 21,950 a year (2027/28). Full-time annual tuition fee from the 2027/28 fee table Source

Intake: September, January, April

Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time, 6 to 7 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/apply

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