Defence Studies Research MPhil/PhD

Study Environment

MPhil/PhD students are allocated a primary and secondary supervisor. Students have access to workspaces with computers and printers, either located in the Department of War Studies on the Strand Campus or at the Library at the Joint Services Command and Staff College, subject to security clearance. Students are encouraged to take part in the lively research culture of the Defence Studies Department, attending research seminars, student-organised research workshops, or the regular seminars, visiting lectures, and conferences that are held either in London or at the JSCSC in Shrivenham. They are also expected to participate in one or more of the School of Security Studies’ research themes and groups which organise their own programmes of events. Find out about SoSS research themes.

Postgraduate Training

Students will have their training and development needs assessed and will, with their supervisor, draw up a personalised programme of training that will both allow them to complete their research project and also provide the skills they will need in their subsequent career. Ongoing research training needs are assessed throughout the programme. This training will include courses provided by the Department, the School of Security Studies, the Centre for Doctoral Studies, or the LISS-DTP.

Our professional network

Hear from 2020 graduate, John A. Mauk (Adjunct Faculty and Program Manager at U.S. Army War College)

What my career is like: In this role I manage a contract to provide adjunct faculty to expand the scope of resident faculty expertise, impacting the continuing education and professional development of military leaders serving at the most senior levels of the Department of Defense and impacting national security policy and strategy formulation. 

How King's helped me: KCL's research faculty was exactly the right avenue to study the US national security policy making apparatus from a perspective largely eschewed by US academic institutions. The result of my research opened doors to supporting national security policy making and influence senior military leader's perspective on policy and strategy issues. 

My top career tip: Like any other endeavor, the goal you envision at the start may very likely change by the time you complete the degree. Enter with an open mind and broaden your aperture. Keep your eye on the prize but, change is constant, embrace it. 

Hear from 2021 graduate, P. Michael Phillips (Independent Researcher)

What my career is like: I pursued my PhD towards the end of a 30-year career in the military, which I concluded by teaching strategy and policy at the U.S. Army War College. My top achievements included engaging for almost a decade in policy activities with U.S. embassies in remote or austere locations. 

How King's helped me: My King's experiences encouraged me to explore my interests more deeply; to refine my analysis and arguments more precisely; to write more accurately and concisely; and to place my observations and conclusions more succinctly within a broader academic field of discovery. 

My top career tip: First, I encourage prospective students to play to their interests and talents. Second, practice self-reflection and humility, and seek out the company of those who do likewise. We all are in need of constant improvement, so surround yourself with good people. Third, be charitable in deed and spirit.

Hear from 2022 graduate, Whitney Grespin (Africa Regional Program Lead at the Institute for Security Governance, US Department of Defense, Defense Security Agency)

What my career is like: As sa US citizen, completing my PhD at the Defence Studies Department at the Joint Services Command and Staff College gave me unique insight into professional military education and invaluable experience working with a foreign military and government. 

How King's helped me: I didn't realise the opportunities I would have outside of academia with a PhD but my program/supervisor helped me explore broader career paths. 

My top career tip: Network and publish