PhD Studies
The Department of Political Economy welcomes Postgraduate Research students interested in undertaking doctoral research in our unique interdisciplinary environment where we research and teach at the intersections of politics, economics and philosophy.
The Department has PhD programmes in Politics, Political Economy, Public Policy, and Politics and Contemporary History. Within these programmes we have students studying both theoretical and empirical topics, using both quantitative and qualitative research methods. We have a vibrant community of students drawn from many different countries. Recent graduates have gone on to postdoctoral positions at New York University, Brown University, the European University Institute, and the University of Birmingham; and to teaching positions at the University of Buckingham, Utica College (USA) and here at King’s College London.
A PhD involves the writing of a thesis of not more than 100,000 words that makes an original contribution to knowledge, for example by the discovery of new facts or by the exercise of original critical analysis or thought. A PhD thesis is normally produced following three years of full-time study (maximum of four years), or six-years of part-time study (maximum of eight years). All students initially register as MPhil students and are upgraded to PhD status after the satisfactory completion of an initial period of study.
Our basic entry requirements are a Merit at Masters-level with 65+ in the dissertation element (or non-UK equivalents). The Department’s standard English language requirements also apply. You will also need an identified supervisor within the Department with the necessary expertise and capacity to supervise your research. Finally, we require a viable research proposal – ideally your prospective supervisor will provide guidance to help develop an initial proposal to the required standard.
Scholarships
King’s has a limited number of PhD scholarships that are allocated on a competitive basis. More information can be found at the Student Funding webpage.
How to apply
In the first instance, you should contact the director of Postgraduate Research, Dr Damien Bol, or a faculty member you believe has the relevant knowledge and expertise required to supervise your specific research project.
We advise against contacting large numbers of academics requesting that they supervise your research – it is necessary to first identify scholars working directly in your area and write to them explaining why you believe they would be a good supervisory fit. Please read the Guidance for Applicants page before applying.
You can narrow down which staff are likely to be most appropriate by looking at our research groups.