The Centre for the Study of Higher Education (CSHE) draws on expertise from its core staff as well as researchers across the University, so Kent can offer high-quality PhD supervision. The University works very carefully to match students with a supervisory panel that suits their interests and ambitions. There are further details on the research activities and publications of individual members of staff on the Centre for the Study of Higher Education website.

In addition to regular meetings with supervisors, all research students take part in a tailored research training programme, which can include research methods modules offered by the Centre or by other schools, as appropriate. As well as attending the regular research seminars offered by the Centre, students are encouraged to participate in the seminars, workshops, newer researcher networks and masterclasses offered by the scholarly bodies in the discipline, such as the Society for Research into Higher Education (SRHE).