Higher Education

Entry requirements

A good honours degree or Master’s degree in a subject relevant to your proposed research topic. We strongly recommend that you contact the Centre to discuss your plans before making a formal application.

All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and experience will also be taken into account when considering applications.

Months of entry

January, May, September

Course content

Research on higher education at Kent focuses on higher education practices and policy, particularly as they relate to innovation, enhancement, accessibility and excellence in teaching, learning, assessment and students’ experiences. Our research also investigates academic practice and how to support, recognise and reward academics, particularly part-time, and early career academics.

The Centre for the Study of Higher Education (CSHE) draws on expertise from its core staff as well as researchers across the University, so we can offer high-quality PhD supervision; we work very carefully to match you with a supervisory panel that suits your interests and ambitions. There are further details on the research activities and publications of individual members of staff on the Centre for the Study of Higher Education website.

In addition to regular meetings with supervisors, all research students take part in a tailored research training programme, which can include research methods modules offered by the Centre or by other schools, as appropriate. As well as attending the regular research seminars offered by the Centre, you are encouraged to participate in the seminars, workshops, newer researcher networks and masterclasses offered by the scholarly bodies in the discipline, such as the Society for Research into Higher Education (SRHE).

Information for international students

Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information for your country. Please note that international fee-paying students cannot undertake a part-time programme due to visa restrictions.

English language entry requirements

The University requires all non-native speakers of English to reach a minimum standard of proficiency in written and spoken English before beginning a postgraduate degree. Certain subjects require a higher level.

For detailed information see our English language requirements web pages.

Need help with English?

Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.

Fees and funding

Please visit our funding web pages for the most current information and application details.