School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Sciences PhDs

Our research programmes offer you specialist knowledge in your chosen area of social science and an advanced level of skills. Working professionals may also be interested in the programmes we offer via our distance learning online courses. 

All our postgraduate students have access to office space with computing facilities. Some PhD students have also taken the opportunity to teach part-time within the School. 

Research Excellence

As ‘one of Europe’s leading centres for social scientific research’, interdisciplinary international and highly influential, our research addresses some of the most critical issues of our time. You’ll be working with people whose work has changed policies, cultures or society and improved lives.

The School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Sciences (SSPSSR) research at Kent ranked 3rd in the UK by Times Higher Education REF2021 Results SSPSSR came third out of 76 in the Social Work and Social Policy Unit of Assessment. 100% of SSPSSR’s environment was evaluated as world-leading, reflecting our inclusive and vibrant research culture. The School also received a high score for their outputs, with 50% assessed as world-leading. The results recognise our innovative and interdisciplinary approach and our intellectually ambitious research, making real impact and difference to society in a range of areas.

Find out more about our research and read all about our incredible supervisors.

This foundation of excellence helps to create a research environment where you can thrive.

Our PhD programmes include:

• Applied Health Research – PhD (full time or part time)
• Applied Psychology – PhD (full time or part time)
• Community Care – MA, PhD (full time or part time)
• Criminology – MA, PhD (full time or part time)
• Cultural and Global Criminology (DCGC): An Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate – PhD (full time only)
• Environmental Social Science – PhD (full time or part time)
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities – MA, PhD (full time or part time)
• Mental Health of People with Learning Disabilities – MA, PhD (full time or part time)
• Migration Studies – PhD (full time or part time)
• Social Policy – MA, PhD (full time or part time)
• Social Work – PhD (full time or part time)
• Sociology – MA, PhD (full time or part time)

Research funding 

We offer scholarships aimed at research students and cultivate relationships with Research Councils, graduate schools and other organisations, regionally, nationally and internationally so that you have access to additional funding and study opportunities.

Find out more about our available scholarships and funding options.

About the School

The School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research (SSPSSR) offers a wide selection of innovative programmes in areas such as criminology, cultural Studies, health and social care, social policy and social change, social sciences, social work and sociology, attracting students from all over the world.

The School has a long and distinguished history and is one of the largest and most successful social science research communities in Europe.

Our teaching is informed by our world-leading research. Our research culture is focused on making a positive social, cultural and economic impact. At SSPSSR, you don't just explore how society works, but whether you can make it better.

Got a question? Email us at information@kent.ac.uk.

How to apply

Find out how you can make an application.

Funding Notes

Find current funding opportunities for doctoral research, through the Scholarships Finder.