PhD Degree in Postcolonial Studies - About, Minimum Qualification, Universities, and Admission 2025-26

About This Course

The of English offers a rich and globally connected research environment, guided by expert staff who supervise projects across an impressive range of literary traditions. From African and Caribbean writing to African-American, Native American, Australian, and South Pacific literature, the School embraces diverse voices and historical contexts. You can also explore Indian and South-East Asian works, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean texts, as well as research on postcolonial women writers, literary theory, and travel writing.

As a research student, you stay closely connected with your supervisor through regular meetings, ensuring strong academic support throughout your journey. You’re also encouraged to join reading groups and research seminars where fellow students, faculty members, and invited scholars present fresh ideas and emerging research. These sessions create a collaborative space that helps you refine your thinking and grow your scholarly confidence. In the spring term, dedicated research skills seminars allow you to learn directly from experienced staff and postdoctoral researchers, further strengthening your academic foundation.

The University of Kent has long been recognised as a pioneer in colonial and postcolonial studies in the UK. Its continued leadership in the field, combined with a strong national and international reputation, makes it an inspiring place to pursue advanced research. At the heart of this community is the Centre for the Global Study of Empire—an interdisciplinary hub promoting deep engagement with colonialism, postcolonialism, and global imperial histories. Joining this environment means stepping into a vibrant academic network at the forefront of global research.

To support your development, you’ll also complete the School and University research methods programmes, ensuring you gain the essential tools for high-level scholarship. With its international outlook and diverse research strengths, the School of English provides a dynamic and supportive setting for your academic growth.

Eligibility

The minimum eligibility for admission to the PhD and VRS programmes is a strong UK Master’s degree, or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution, ideally in a subject closely related to the programme you wish to pursue. For certain research areas, prior knowledge of a relevant language may also be required or recommended.

Applicants must also meet the university’s English language proficiency standards. Accepted test scores include:

IELTS Academic / IELTS for UKVI / IELTS Indicator: Overall 7.0, with 6.5 in each component and 7.0 in Writing

PTE Academic: Minimum score of 70

TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 105

IELCA Academic: Minimum score of 40

For students coming from Indian institutions, a minimum of 55% or a 6.0 CGPA on a 10-point scale in a recognised Master’s programme—or an equivalent qualification approved by the university’s academic council—is required.

Applications for PhD programmes are welcomed throughout the year. However, formal admissions take place twice annually, with intakes in July and January, offering flexibility for prospective research students to join at a suitable time.

PhD Degree in Postcolonial Studies Admission

Applicants with an MA or MPhil in English and a minimum of 55% are eligible to apply. Candidates from other academic backgrounds may also be considered, provided they can demonstrate solid expertise and genuine engagement with the field of English literature.

To apply for the PhD in English, students are required to submit an online application form along with the following documents:

• Statement of Purpose (700 words): A clear expression of your academic interests, motivations, and long-term research goals.
• Research Essay (3500 words): This should be a critical writing sample, not a research proposal or dissertation abstract. You may submit an academic essay or a chapter from your undergraduate, MA, or MPhil thesis that best reflects your analytical and research abilities.
• Two Academic Letters of Recommendation: Referees who can comment on your academic strengths and potential for doctoral research.

Once the online application and supporting documents are reviewed, the selection process continues in two stages:

a) Online exam

b) Interview, conducted for candidates shortlisted after the written test.

This structured process ensures that applicants not only meet the academic standards but also demonstrate the research aptitude and critical thinking required for advanced doctoral study.

Future Scope

An impressive 93% of postgraduate students secure employment or continue their studies within six months of graduation, and 84% of them move into highly skilled roles or advanced academic pathways. This strong career outcome reflects the university’s commitment to professional growth and industry readiness.

The Career Development Office plays a key role in shaping these successes. It offers a wide range of career services, from campus placements and internship support to workshops that help students sharpen their professional and interpersonal skills. The office actively connects students and alumni with opportunities across leading sectors, making the university a preferred hiring destination for top recruiters.

Graduates are recruited by major industries including Consulting, BFSI, BPO/KPO, FMCG, Consumer Goods, Development, Education/EdTech, IT & Technology, Media, Publishing, Healthcare, and Research & Analytics. They go on to take up dynamic roles such as Business Analyst, Imagineer, Management Trainee, Software Developer, and many other impactful positions across global organisations.

For those pursuing academic or literature-focused careers, the programme opens doors to a wide variety of pathways, such as:

Professor / Academic Researcher

Literary Critic

Author / Writer

Editor / Publisher

Literary Agent

Librarian / Archivist

Educator / Instructional Designer

Literary Consultant / Freelancer

Non-profit Director / Advocate

With such broad opportunities, graduates are well prepared to build meaningful careers in both academic and industry settings, backed by strong training, expert guidance, and a thriving professional network.