Overview

Course introduction

The Department of War Studies welcomes applications from outstanding candidates to the War Studies Research PhD programme to conduct original research that advances understanding of the complex challenges shaping global affairs

As part of the Department of War Studies, you will work with internationally recognised experts and become part of a vibrant research community spanning specialist centres, research groups and global partnerships. The programme combines access to academic training with opportunities to engage with contemporary policy debates, helping you develop the advanced research, analytical and professional skills needed for careers in academia, government, international organisations and beyond. Studying in London, you will benefit from King's extensive academic networks and interdisciplinary research environment.

Blended Distance Learning pathway

This pathway is intended for well-qualified students whose professional commitments prevent fulfilling the normal residency requirement of the PhD programme at King’s. Supervision will normally be at a distance, and students must participate in the usual formal progress reviews which manage study on the programme.

It is expected that most students will study the distance learning programme on a part-time basis. Minimum attendance requirements on this pathway require students to attend in London at three key points:

Enrolment and Induction (late September or mid-January, depending on start date). All students must enrol (register) in person at the start of their course and attend the programme induction.
Formal upgrade from MPhil to PhD status (between 9-18 months if fulltime; 12-36 months if part time).
Final Examination for the degree (at the end of your course).

Beyond the formal attendance requirements of the programme set out above, students are welcome to visit King's as often as their schedule permits and are expected to participate in the academic activity of the department.

As this is a distance learning programme requiring only short visits to the UK, many of our students need to enter the UK as a ‘Student Visitor’. Find out about VISA requirements.

What you will gain

Join one of the world's only academic departments dedicated to conflict, security and international politics, and become part of the largest community of security and international relations scholars worldwide.
Work closely with internationally recognised academics, whose research and influence takes them to the forefront of global events as they happen, providing exceptional supervision and networking opportunities.
Benefit from joining our vibrant intellectual community, with access to seminars, conferences, workshops and networking events across King's College London, the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy, and specialist research centres.
Enhance your professional and research skills through specialist training offered by the King's Doctoral College and the London Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Training Partnership (LISS-DTP) supporting your development for careers in academia, policy and beyond.

Who is this programme for

The department is interested in receiving applications from students planning their research projects in fields that will enhance the strength of the department's research groups, centres and programmes.

Please note that the Blended Distance Learning option is intended for mid-career professionals whose work commitments prevent them from fulfilling the normal residency requirement of the PhD programme at King’s. Students will usually be working in an area relevant to this area of study and be based outside the UK.