Comparative Literature

Entry requirements

A first or upper-second class BA honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, a distinction or merit in an MA programme or equivalent in a relevant subject and the appropriate language skills.

Research students need to demonstrate competence in the relevant languages.

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

Months of entry

January, April, September

Course content

A PhD in Comparative Literature enables you to undertake a substantial piece of supervised research – up to 100’000 words – on a topic that makes an original contribution to knowledge and is worthy of publication. The University of Kent offers an intellectually rigorous programme that develops advanced skills in critical thinking, research design, and scholarly writing, preparing graduates for careers in academia as well as in cultural, literary, policy, and creative sectors.

At its root, Comparative Literature is concerned with the intersections between different cultural, linguistic and literary traditions. It encourages researchers to think beyond national canons, engaging comparatively with texts across languages, periods, media, and intellectual traditions. This approach fosters a deep understanding of how literature responds to, shapes, and is shaped by major historical, political, and ethical questions, making the discipline especially relevant to contemporary global challenges.

The University of Kent’s Comparative Literature doctoral programme enjoys an international reputation for excellence. Known for its strong international outlook and interdisciplinary ethos, Kent provides a vibrant and supportive research environment in which doctoral researchers are encouraged to pursue ambitious, innovative projects. You will benefit from close, personalised supervision by internationally recognised scholars, as well as from a strong culture of research seminars, conferences, and collaborative events that integrate postgraduate researchers fully into the intellectual life of the School.

At the University of Kent, we offer expert supervision in a wide variety of topics, including: fascism and war in contemporary literature, the Holocaust and other genocides, post-Brexit fiction, biographical and life-writing, literature and sustainability, the medical humanities, and tropes of madness, mental health and neurodiversity. These strengths reflect Kent’s commitment to socially engaged and ethically informed research, and its encouragement of work that speaks both to literary scholarship and to pressing cultural debates.

Doctoral researchers in Comparative Literature at Kent also benefit from excellent training opportunities in research methods, teaching, and professional development, alongside access to outstanding library resources and archival collections. The University’s location, close to London and continental Europe, further enhances opportunities for research, networking, and international collaboration. Throughout your programme, you are able to attend and contribute to research seminars, workshops, and research and transferable skills training courses. Together, these features make a PhD in Comparative Literature at the University of Kent a stimulating, supportive, and forward-looking choice for advanced literary study.

You may be eligible for a fully-funded PhD scholarship to support your studies with us. For the full list of scholarships available, please see our postgraduate funding page.

Information for international students

Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. 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

For further information about funding, including scholarships, please visit our funding web pages.