Program Details

Start Date October, January, April
Duration 3-4 Years Full-time; 6-7 Years Part-time
Tuition Approx. £7,080 (Home) / £29,880 (International) per year (2024/25)
Format On-campus
Credits N/A (Research-based program)

Program Statistics

Acceptance Rate Not publicly available.%
Employment Rate Not publicly available (specific to this PhD program).%

The PhD in Global Health & Social Medicine at King’s College London offers an unparalleled opportunity for advanced research into critical global health challenges. This interdisciplinary program is designed for ambitious scholars seeking to contribute original knowledge to the field, fostering a deep understanding of the social, political, economic, and cultural determinants of health worldwide. Students engage with cutting-edge research methodologies and theoretical frameworks, critically examining global health inequalities, policy interventions, and the complex interplay between health and society.

Housed within a vibrant and internationally recognized department, the program provides a stimulating intellectual environment. PhD candidates benefit from expert supervision, access to extensive resources, and opportunities to collaborate with leading academics and research groups. The curriculum emphasizes rigorous research training, preparing graduates for impactful careers in academia, international organizations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations dedicated to improving global health outcomes and promoting social justice.

Advertisement

Curriculum

The PhD program is primarily research-driven, culminating in the submission of an original thesis (typically 80,000-100,000 words). Students work closely with their supervisors to develop and execute their research projects.

  • Supervised Research: Regular meetings with primary and secondary supervisors to guide research design, data collection, analysis, and thesis writing.
  • Research Training: Access to a wide range of transferable skills and advanced research methods training courses offered by the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy and the wider university. This may include qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods, and ethical research training.
  • Departmental Seminars & Workshops: Participation in departmental research seminars, reading groups, and workshops to present work, receive feedback, and engage with current research.
  • Conference Participation: Encouragement and support to present research at national and international conferences.
  • Teaching Opportunities: Opportunities to gain teaching experience as graduate teaching assistants.
  • Annual Progress Reviews: Formal reviews to ensure satisfactory progress through the stages of the PhD program.

Admission Requirements

  • A Master's degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject (e.g., Global Health, Public Health, Sociology, Anthropology, Political Science, Medicine, Nursing) with a strong merit or distinction (e.g., 65% or 2:1 equivalent).
  • A detailed research proposal (typically 2,000-3,000 words) outlining your research question, methodology, literature review, and timeline.
  • Two strong academic references.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS Academic overall 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any skill, or equivalent).
  • Identification of a potential supervisor within the department whose research interests align with your proposed project is highly recommended and often a prerequisite before formal application.
  • A CV/resumé detailing academic and professional experience.

Application Process

  • 1. Identify a Research Area & Potential Supervisor: Before applying, applicants are strongly encouraged to explore the research interests of academic staff within the Department of Global Health & Social Medicine and contact potential supervisors to discuss their research ideas.
  • 2. Develop a Research Proposal: Prepare a comprehensive research proposal that demonstrates the originality and feasibility of your proposed project.
  • 3. Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, CV, research proposal, and contact details for two academic referees.
  • 4. Complete Online Application: Submit your application through the King's College London online application portal, attaching all required documents.
  • 5. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will typically be invited for an interview with their potential supervisor(s) and other academic staff.
  • 6. Decision: The department will notify applicants of the outcome. Successful applicants will receive an offer of admission.

Application Fee: No application fee for research programmes.

Apply Now

Interested in this program? Use the form below to request more information or start your application.

Application form integration pending.