The University of Kent marked its sixth decade of academic excellence with a unique event that blended scholarly rivalry and popular culture. On 1 October 2025, the campus buzzed as undergraduates faced off against faculty members on the long‑running BBC panel show The Third Degree. The broadcast, produced and recorded on a live studio audience at Kent, highlighted the breadth of the university’s disciplines and the enthusiasm of its students.
What Is The Third Degree?
Originally launched by the BBC, The Third Degree pits contestants against one another in a mix of general knowledge, trivia, and specialised subject rounds. In the Kent edition, six students represented three faculties – Architecture, English Literature, and Forensic Science – taking turns to answer questions from both a broad curriculum and cultural topics. The show’s format includes a rapid‐fire bell‑and‑buzzer finale, a Highbrow & Lowbrow segment that tests historical, artistic, and current affairs awareness, and specialist rounds where the professors compete in their own fields.
Key Participants and Their Takeaways
- Dr Ambrose Gillick, Architecture – Commented that the experience proved a valuable exercise in applying lecture material under pressure.
- Dr Sarah Dustagheer & Darcy Priston, English Literature – Found that the mix of pastime and academia reinforced their passion for teaching.
- Dr Chris Shepherd & Hannah Lim, Forensic Science – Both admitted stepping outside their comfort zone and enjoyed the lively competition.
“It was an exciting experience to take part and an opportunity to showcase some of our fantastic courses and students at the University of Kent,” said Chris Shepherd. Participants shared that the event offered a playful way to test knowledge while strengthening campus spirit.
Engagement Through Knowledge and Culture
The quiz’s hybrid approach—combining academic rigor with popular culture—reflected Kent’s commitment to cultivating well‑rounded scholars. By challenging lecturers on the latest pop trends and students on niche subject material, the event underscored the university’s mission of continuous learning and adaptability.
Watch the Full Episode
For those who missed the live audience, the full episode is available online. Please tune in to see whether students or professors secured the winning point. Watch the Kent edition of The Third Degree.
Connecting with Kent’s Vibrant Community
Events like The Third Degree illustrate how the University of Kent encourages intellectual curiosity and community participation. Prospective students and faculty alike can experience this dynamic atmosphere by attending:
- Open Days – bring yourself to the campus and meet current students and staff.
- Campus Tours – explore lecture halls, labs, and student accommodation.
- Academic seminars and public talks – join the dialogue on contemporary research topics.
These opportunities provide a direct line to the university’s culture of collaboration, ensuring that newcomers feel supported from day one.
Explore Open Days and Register for Events
If you’re interested in learning more about the University of Kent, consider attending one of the scheduled Open Days. Book an Open Day today. You’ll get an inside view of our campuses, meet professors, and see firsthand how academics are made fun.
Ready to Join Kent?
Whether you’re preparing to apply, researching program options, or simply curious about campus life, the University of Kent offers a supportive environment for academic growth.
Apply now for undergraduate or postgraduate courses and take your first step toward a future defined by quality teaching and research excellence. Submit your application today.
Connect with the Kent Community
For questions or additional information, feel free to contact the admissions team. Follow @unikent on X or visit the campus to experience the excitement of academic life firsthand.
