Before applying for an MPhil/PhD you will need to consider a potential supervisor. Please consult the academic profiles for more information on the supervisory interests of staff and make contact with them directly regarding your application. Only when you have an agreed supervisor can you progress to make a formal application through the Admissions Office.
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At the heart of your application is your research proposal. The ability to identify and propose a viable research project is a major indicator of your potential for doctoral study.
Email your research proposal and personal statement to your proposed supervisor. Your research proposal should explain precisely the field of study that you wish to contribute to, as well as any current research gaps, what you want to do, and how you propose to do it. Meanwhile, your personal statement should outline your reasons for pursuing doctoral research.
If your proposed supervisor and/or Admissions Tutor encourages you to apply, you will need to submit an online application via the application portal: King’s Apply.
Preparing a research proposal can take time. A good research proposal typically includes the following components:
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A clear statement of the proposed research question
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An explanation of the importance and originality of the proposed topic
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A section outlining the key literature and academic work associated with your proposed topic
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A section describing not only your proposed methodology, but also an explanation of why this methodology is the most appropriate for the proposed topic
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An overview of the key research questions that you wish to answer
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A prospective chapter outline of the proposed thesis
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A timetable showing a realistic plan, including critical milestones, for the completion of your research and writing within three years
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A concluding section showing why this research should be conducted specifically here, within the Defence of War Studies, rather than anywhere else
Based at King’s, the ESRC London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (LISS DTP) offers studentships and training to students across the College. Both Home and International students will be eligible for funding as of the 2021/22 academic year and LISS DTP’s training courses are available to all students in the Department of War Studies. You can find more information on the DTP’s website.
Many War Studies applicants are also eligible for funding from the AHRC London Arts & Humanities Partnership, which similarly offers studentships and training to KCL students. You can find more information on their website.