The PhD in Political Science is a comprehensive, research-oriented program designed to provide students with an advanced understanding of political systems, theories, and methodologies. The program focuses on equipping students with the skills necessary to conduct original research, analyze complex political issues, and contribute to academic and practical knowledge in the field of political science. Students will engage in high-level research across various subfields, including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. The goal is to prepare scholars capable of advancing the field through significant research contributions and academic excellence.
Course Duration
The PhD program typically spans 2 to 5 years, consisting of coursework, comprehensive examinations, and dissertation research. The first two to three years are dedicated to coursework and preliminary exams, while the remaining years focus on dissertation research and defense. The exact duration may vary depending on individual progress and research requirements.
Program Format: Online, Hybrid, or On-Campus
Admission Requirements
- Academic Qualifications: A Master’s degree in Political Science or a related field with a strong academic record. Exceptional candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science may be considered for direct entry.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential and academic abilities.
- Statement of Purpose: A detailed statement outlining the applicant’s research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Political Science.
- Sample of Research Work: Submission of a research paper or thesis, if available, to demonstrate research capability.
- Medium of Study English: Proof of English proficiency if the previous degree was not completed in English, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the PhD in Political Science program are well-prepared for a variety of high-level career paths, including:
- Academia: University faculty positions in political science and related disciplines, including teaching and research roles.
- Government: Policy analysis, advisory roles, and research positions in government agencies and international organizations.
- Think Tanks and Research Institutes: Positions focusing on policy research, analysis, and advocacy in think tanks and research institutes.
- International Organizations: Roles in institutions such as the United Nations, World Bank, and International Monetary Fund, working on global political issues and policies.
- Public and Private Sector Consulting: Expert consulting roles in political risk analysis, strategic planning, and public affairs.
Program Benefits
- Expert Faculty: Access to leading scholars and practitioners with extensive expertise across various subfields of political science.
- Research Opportunities: Opportunities to engage in pioneering research with potential for high-impact publications and presentations at academic conferences.
- Advanced Training: Comprehensive training in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and research methodologies.
- Professional Development: Access to workshops, seminars, and networking events to support career advancement and professional growth.
- Resources and Facilities: State-of-the-art research facilities, libraries, and data resources to support rigorous academic and empirical research.
- Collaborative Environment: A supportive academic community that encourages interdisciplinary research and collaboration with peers and faculty.
- Global Perspective: Exposure to international political issues and the opportunity to contribute to global political discourse and policy development.
Core Courses
- Advanced Political Theory: Exploration of major political theories and philosophies, and their application to contemporary issues.
- Comparative Politics: Study of political systems, institutions, and processes across different countries and regions.
- International Relations Theory: Examination of theories and concepts related to international relations, diplomacy, and global politics.
- Research Methods in Political Science: Methodologies for conducting research, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches.
- Public Policy Analysis: Analysis of public policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation processes.
- Political Economy: Study of the relationship between politics and economics, including economic policies and their political impacts.
- Quantitative Political Analysis: Advanced statistical methods and techniques for analyzing political data and testing hypotheses.
- Qualitative Political Analysis: Methods for qualitative research, including case studies, interviews, and content analysis.
- Dissertation Research Seminar: A seminar focused on supporting students through the development, conduct, and presentation of their dissertation research.
Achievements of this Program
- Expertise in Political Science: Mastery of advanced theories, concepts, and methodologies in political science.
- Advanced Research Skills: Proficiency in conducting and presenting high-quality research with practical implications for political analysis and policy.
- Academic Contributions: Publication of research findings in leading journals and contributions to the field of political science.
- Professional Networking: Development of a professional network within academic, government, and policy-making circles.
- Leadership and Impact: Preparation for leadership roles and the ability to influence political discourse and policy development.
Please go to the admission application to enroll in this program if you feel you are a good fit for the course.
