Overview
Fully funded ESRC SEDarc PhD studentships at Kent. SEDarc (South‑East Doctoral Training Arc) is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The University of Kent partners with other top UK institutions to develop world‑class social science researchers. We support future leaders of social science in academia, public services and industry.
PhD Studentships
SEDarc offers fully funded 3.5‑year PhD studentships and a limited number of 1‑year Masters + 3.5‑year PhD studentships, starting in October 2026.
The University of Kent can nominate up to 18 candidates for consideration. Research projects will be developed around five interdisciplinary social science themed challenges:
* Living sustainably
* Healthy thriving communities
* Inclusive economic growth
* Secure, effective and trusted institutions
* Transformative technologies for society
Funding
Fully‑funded SEDarc studentships include:
* All tuition fees (Home rates)
* Doctoral stipend equivalent to the Research Councils UK National Minimum Doctoral Stipend £20 780 – 2025/26 rate (2026/27 rate to be announced)
* Access to research funding
* Kent will waive the difference between Home and International fees
Eligibility
Eligible disciplines include: Psychology; Geography & Environmental studies; Business and Management; Law; Politics and international Relations; Sociology; Social Work and Social Policy; Anthropology and Development Studies; Architecture and Planning; Cybersecurity (Social Sciences); Health and Social Care.
How to Apply
To be considered for a SEDarc studentship at Kent, you must follow the steps below and submit by the deadline of 23:59 on Sunday 23 November 2025 GMT.
1. Apply for a PhD through one of the eligible disciplines. Consult with a primary supervisor when applying.
2. Download the Kent/SEDarc application and complete the form with the support of your potential primary supervisor. Ask the supervisor to complete Section 8 before submitting.
3. Submit the Kent/SEDarc application form to the Graduate and Researcher College by emailing kentgrc@kent.ac.uk by the deadline. Enclose the application form, full name, KentVision applicant ID number and preferred contact email.
For further information, visit sedarc.ac.uk or contact the SEDarc administrator at Kent via email: kentgrc@kent.ac.uk.
Upcoming Events
* Kent SEDarc Applicant Briefing – online, 22 October 2025, 11:30‑12:30 BST. Book your place.
* University of Kent Open Events – online or on‑campus, ongoing. Book your place.
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