Urban Studies - MA, PhD

at University of Kent

The first year of the programme normally comprises taught modules in research skills training and subject-specific modules as directed by the supervisor, in addition to preliminary research including a systematic review of the literature on the student’s chosen subject. Students will also be expected to attend School research seminars. Unless exempted, wholly or in part, on the grounds of previous research experience or formal training, students will be required to follow four research training modules based upon those required for the MA in Methods of Social Research:

• Research design and data collection
• Using secondary and qualitative data
• Philosophical approaches to research
• Quantitative analysis

A good honours degree in the social sciences, an interest in the chosen topic area and a clear idea of your proposed thesis topic. In the case of research in health services and personal social services, we will also consider candidates with professional qualifications alone and/or relevant experience in the health service.

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. 

International students
Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, students who require a student visa to study cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended-learning programme with no on-campus provision.

English language entry requirements
For detailed information see our English language requirements web pages. 

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.

• Home full-time £4596
• EU full-time £17400
• International full-time £17400
• Home part-time £2298
• EU part-time £8700
• International part-time £8700

Building on Kent’s success as the region’s leading institution for student employability, we place considerable emphasis on you gaining specialist knowledge in your chosen subject alongside core transferable skills. We ensure that you develop the skills and competences that employers are looking for including: research and analysis; policy development and interpretation; independent thought; writing and presentation, as well as time management and leadership skills. You also become fully involved in the professional research culture of the School. 

A postgraduate degree in the area of sociology and urban studies is a particularly flexible and valuable qualification that can lead to many exciting opportunities and professions. Recent graduates have pursued careers in academia, journalism, local and central government, charities and NGOs.