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University of Kent
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University of Kent

Philanthropic Studies

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Award Attendance Study Duration Start Domestic fees International fees
PhD On-Campus Full-time, Part-time 3 - 5 years September, January find out find out

About Philanthropic Studies, PhD - at University of Kent

There is no better time to begin a PhD in Philanthropic Studies, and no better place to do it than with the Centre for Philanthropy at the University of Kent.

The academic field of Philanthropic Studies has grown rapidly in recent years, with demand for qualified PhD graduates outstripping current supply.

Whether you hope to embark on a research career, a teaching career, or wish to remain in practice as a philanthropy professional after completing a doctoral thesis, we can help you achieve your goals.

Our qualified PhD supervisors at Kent have a background in practice before moving into academia. All of our completed doctoral students have secured jobs that make use of their doctoral qualification.

Whilst we have a preference for those able to commit to full-time doctoral study, we can supervise people based anywhere in the world, and are open to exploring proposals from part-time candidates.

The team at Kent is led by Dr Beth Breeze - author of the annual 'Million Pound Donor Report', co-author of Richer Lives: Why Rich People Give, and frequent contributor to charity sector and media debates.

If you are interested in joining a thriving doctoral community, and being supervised by leading names in the field, then please get in touch: studyLSSJ@kent.ac.uk


Entry requirements

Contact University of Kent to find course entry requirements.


Why study at University of Kent

  • In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Kent has been ranked 387th in the world and 50th within the UK
  • Kent has been ranked a TOp 50 UK University in the Complete University Guide 2026 
  • 97% of research at Kent was found to be of international quality in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (an independant national survey of UK universities 
  • Over 250 clubs and societies including a range of sporting, performance, cultural and faith groups. Share your interests and make lifelong friends around the world.
  • Canterbury and Medway is 60 mins from London by high-speed train.
  • Multimillion-pound scholarship fund,stunning locations, first-class facilities, and a diverse, inclusive and supportive community
  • Dedicated postgraduate graduate and research college that provides extensive support in every part of your study experience – wellbeing, resources, workshops and career preparation.