PhD Psychoanalytic Studies
University of EssexColchester Campus, United Kingdom
Course overview
The PhD Psychoanalytic Studies in the University of Essex is a research-led programme designed for those who wish to explore complex issues within psychoanalysis, analytical psychology, and related fields. With full-time study typically spanning three to four years, students work under the close supervision of experienced scholars in areas such as trauma, gender, Jungian thought, institutional dynamics, and the history of psychoanalysis.
Assessment is based on the preparation and submission of an original research thesis of up to 80,000 words. The process involves an in-depth literature review, methodological design, data collection, theoretical work, and a thesis defence. Students may engage with seminars, workshops, and the department’s specialist research community to support their studies.
Entry requirements
- IELTS: 7 — 7.0 IELTS 7.0, or equivalent with a minimum of 5.5 in all other components.
Scholarships
Alumni Loyalty Discount
First Class or Distinction, 2.1 or Merit, 2.2 or successful completion of a Masters, Graduate or PG Diploma - 20%.
Up to 20% of feesEssex Futures BT– Masters Scholarship
School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is delighted to be offering up to six scholarship worth £5,500 each for 1 year full time.
Up to £5,500Global Talent Masters Scholarship
You could be eligible for a scholarship worth £5,000, paid as a discount on your tuition fee.
Up to £5,000Hugh Brogan Bursary
If you are applying to study a History MA degree, you could be eligible for one of four available cash bursaries worth £2,500.
Up to £2,500Postgraduate Masters (PGT) International Health Bursary
The University is offering a bursary of £776 for Masters (PGT) international students.
Up to £776Postgraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship
You could be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £6,500, for your first year of study at Essex.
Up to £6,500Sociology and Criminology - Fuller PGT Scholarship
The Department of Sociology and Criminology is offering scholarships of £11,025 to support six postgraduate students to study within the department in 2026-2027.
Up to £11,025The Eleonore Koch Travel Fund
The School of Philosophical, Historical & Interdisciplinary Studies is offering a bursary of up to £5,000.
The Essex MBA Dean's Award
The school is able to offer fee discounts between 10% - 100% of tuition fee value.
The Ronald J. Hill Fund
The department of Government is offering a bursary of £3,000 to assist one postgraduate student within the department of Government to assist with tuition fees or living costs.
Up to £3,000University of Sanctuary Scholarship
Career opportunities
The specialist knowledge and critical thinking gained through the PhD Psychoanalytic Studies from the University of Essex prepare graduates for senior and influential positions.
- Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist or Analyst.
- University Lecturer or Research Fellow in Psychoanalytic Studies / Psychosocial Studies.
- Consultant in Mental Health Services focusing on trauma, gender, or institutional analysis.
- Policy Adviser in health, education, or social care with a psychoanalytic dimension.
- Researcher in think-tanks or NGOs working on psychoanalytic theory, culture, and society.
- Author or Academic Writer on psychoanalysis, Jungian studies, or related social-psychological fields.
Cost of study
For international students, the tuition fee for the PhD Psychoanalytic Studies in the University of Essex is £19,650 per year. Please note: the tuition fee is subject to annual increases.
Admission
Submit your application now to the University of Essex portal and take the next step in your research journey. To find out more about this process, speak to one of our trained counsellors.
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