University of Kent

PhD Computer Science

University of Kent

Course overview

The PhD in Computer Science at the University of Kent is designed to give students a solid understanding of advanced theory and research skills needed to become specialist researchers in the field of computing. During this programme, students will learn how to carry out original research that contributes new knowledge to computer science.

 

As a research-based degree, the PhD in Computer Science covers key areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, software systems, and computational theory. Through this, students become skilled at independent research, critical analysis, and problem-solving at an advanced level.

 

As a research-focused programme, it involves close supervision, regular seminars, and engagement with active research groups within the School of Computing. For this course, teaching and learning are delivered by a team of experienced academics and researchers. While assessment is based primarily on a doctoral thesis and a viva voce examination.

 

Notably, the University of Kent has strong links with industry and research organisations, and as such, graduates of the PhD Computer Science programme are well-positioned for careers in academia, research, and advanced industry roles.

Entry requirements

These are the standard entry requirements to study a PhD in Computer Science at the University of Kent:

 

When reviewing applications, the University of Kent considers relevant experience.

 

Grade Requirements:

 

  • Applicants should have a bachelor's degree (at least 2:1 classification) in a relevant discipline from a UK or other approved university and/or equivalent.

 

English Proficiency:

 

  • Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate proficiency in the language, typically through an IELTS score of at least 6.5. TOEFL or other equivalents are also allowed.

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship

    Scholarship value up to £10,000.

  • Kent Ambition to Succeed Scholarship

    Scholarship holders can expect to receive between £500-£2,000 for each year of study (pro-rata for part-time students), subject to satisfactory academic progress.

  • Kent Business School Beaconhouse PG Progression Scholarship

    Tuition fee discount scholarship of £6,000.

    Up to £6,000

  • Kent Business School Dean's Excellence Scholarship Award

    Awards of up to £3,000

  • Kent Business School MBA Scholarship

    50% off Tuition Fee.

    Up to 50% of fees

  • Kent Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee reduction for post-graduate taught programmes at the University of Kent.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Kent International Scholarship for Undergraduates

    Scholarship value - £5,000

    Up to £5,000

  • Kent International Scholarship Postgraduate Taught

    Scholarship value - £5000

    Up to £5,000

  • Kent International Scholarship Postgraduate Taught (KBS)

    Scholarship value £3000

    Up to £3,000

  • Kent LLM Solicitors’ Practice Scholarship (Canterbury)

    £2,000 tuition fee discount (Home Students); £2,000 tuition fee discount (Overseas Students).

    Up to £2,000

  • KMMS Christopher and Henry Oldfield Academic Scholarship

    Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9, 790 for 26/27).

  • KMMS Christopher and Henry Oldfield Support Scholarship

    Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9,790 for 26/27).

  • KMMS Kingsman Scholarship

    Tuition fee waiver for 4 years at the home rate (£9,790 for 26/27).

  • KMMS Widening Participation Scholarship

    £1,500 maintenance per annum for a maximum of 5 years.

    Up to £1,500

  • Music Performance Scholarship

    £1,000 awarded each year to talented instrumentalists and singers studying for any degree at the University of Kent.

    Up to £1,000

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Tuition fees waived for the duration of your programme of study, or until you are able to access other Student Finance funding.

  • Sasha Roberts Scholarship

    £3,000 stipend per annum split into two payments of £1,500 in October and January.

    Up to £3,000

  • The “Ambition” Scholarship for University of Kent Graduates

    £1,500 for Full Time UK students; £750 per year for Part Time UK students; £3,000 for Full Time Overseas students.

  • The CAMEMS Scholarship

    £3,000 stipend per annum split into two payments of £1,500 in October and January.

    Up to £3,000

  • The Widening Participation Ambition Scholarship for University of Kent Graduates

    £5,000 for UK students (£2,500 per year for part time students).

Career opportunities

With a PhD Computer Science from the University of Kent, students graduate ready to work in the industry as:

 

  • University Lecturer

  • Research Scientist

  • Data Scientist

  • Software Engineer

  • Cybersecurity Researcher

Cost of study

The tuition fee (2026/2027) to study a PhD in Computer Science at the University of Kent is £23,500.

Admission

To apply for this course, you’ll need to go through UCAS. To find out more about this process, speak to one of our trained counsellors.

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