PhD Social Policy at University of Kent

Programme overview

Research supervision across a broad range of social policy topics in the School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research, one of the largest social science research communities in Europe. In REF 2021, 100% of its Social Work and Social Policy research was rated world-leading or internationally excellent for impact and environment.

Department: School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research | Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time | Intake: September, January | Study mode: full-time or part-time (Canterbury) | Location: Canterbury, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research programmes involve writing a thesis under specialist supervision, with research training tailored to the student's needs and the option to attend relevant modules on a non-assessed basis. Students have dedicated office space, a weekly staff and postgraduate seminar series and may teach part-time in the School.

Career pathways

Recent graduates have pursued careers in academia, journalism, local and central government, charities and NGOs.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UK typical offer 2.2 or above (course listing for MA and PhD). A good honours degree in the social sciences, an interest in the chosen topic area and a clear idea of the proposed thesis topic; for research in health services and personal social services, candidates with professional qualifications alone and/or relevant health-service experience are also considered. International applicants: English language at a high B2 on CEFR (Very Good level); for example IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component, or PTE Academic 67 overall with at least 59 in each sub-test, or a degree from a UK university or a majority English-speaking country. Part-time study is not available to applicants who need a student visa unless the course is distance or blended learning with no on-campus provision.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). UK postgraduate research fee for 2027/28 not yet set by Research Councils UK; guide figure for 2026/27 full-time as published; full-time 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

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

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

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