phd after ma political science

Graduate Program

Pushing the Scholarly Frontier

PhD in Political Science

Our doctoral students are advancing political science as a discipline. They explore the empirical phenomena that produce new scholarly insights—insights that improve the way governments and societies function. As a result, MIT Political Science graduates are sought after for top teaching and research positions in the U.S. and abroad. Read where program alumni are working around the world.

How the PhD program works

The MIT PhD in Political Science requires preparation in two of these major fields:

• American Politics
• Comparative Politics
• International Relations
• Models and Methods
• Political Economy
• Security Studies

We recommend that you take a broad array of courses across your two major fields. In some cases, a single course may overlap across the subject matter of both fields. You may not use more than one such course to "double count" for the course distribution requirement. Keep in mind that specific fields may have additional requirements.

You are free to take subjects in other departments across the Institute. Cross-registration arrangements also permit enrollment in subjects taught in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University and in some of Harvard's other graduate schools.

Requirements

1. number of subjects.

You will need two full academic years of work to prepare for the general examinations and to meet other pre-dissertation requirements. Typically, a minimum of eight graduate subjects are required for a PhD.

2. Scope and Methods

This required one-semester seminar for first-year students introduces principles of empirical and theoretical analysis in political science.

3. Statistics

You must successfully complete at least one class in statistics.

You must successfully complete at least one class in empirical research methods.

5. Philosophy

You must successfully complete at least one class in political philosophy.

6. Foreign language or advanced statistics

You must demonstrate reading proficiency in one language other than English by successfully completing two semesters of intermediate-level coursework or an exam in that language, or you must demonstrate your knowledge of advanced statistics by successfully completing three semesters of coursework in advanced statistics. International students whose native language is not English are not subject to the language requirement.

7. Field research

We encourage you to conduct field research and to develop close working ties with faculty members engaged in major research activities.

8. Second Year Paper/workshop

You must complete an article-length research paper and related workshop in the spring semester of the second year. The second-year paper often develops into a dissertation project.

9. Two examinations

In each of your two elected fields, you must take a general written and oral examination. To prepare for these examinations, you should take at least three courses in each of the two fields, including the field seminar.

10. Doctoral thesis

As a rule, the doctoral thesis requires at least one year of original research and data collection. Writing the dissertation usually takes a substantially longer time. The thesis process includes a first and second colloquium and an oral defense. Be sure to consult the MIT Specifications for Thesis Preparation as well as the MIT Political Science Thesis Guidelines . Consult the MIT academic calendar to learn the due date for final submission of your defended, signed thesis.

Questions? Consult the MIT Political Science Departmental Handbook or a member of the staff in the MIT Political Science Graduate Office .

Graduate School

General Information

Program offerings:, director of graduate studies:, graduate program administrator:.

The graduate program in the Department of Politics leads to the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in politics. The program is designed to offer broad professional training in political science and to enable students to specialize in any of the main subfields of political science (American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory), as well as public law and formal and quantitative analysis. There is no separate program for a master’s degree.

Additional departmental requirements

Sample of written work, 25 page maximum. Applicants are required to select an academic subplan when applying.

Program Offerings

Program offering: ph.d..

Each student must complete at least six graded seminars by May of the first year, and a total of at least 12 graded seminars by May of the second year. If students take two rather than three of the general examinations, then they must complete 14 graded seminars by May of the third year. The required seminars must include at least one in three of the seven regular fields offered by the department. The director of graduate studies must approve all course selections.

Seminars (500-level courses) may be chosen from the 20 to 30 typically offered in the department each year. Students may also take Ph.D. seminars offered in neighboring departments and in the School of Public and International Affairs. These may be counted toward the seminar requirement if they have political content. All students taking courses outside the department must complete a comparable writing or examination requirement to politics seminars in order for those courses to be counted toward the seminar requirement.

Students participating in the Program in Political Philosophy may compose a special field made up of courses in one of the other cooperating departments in the program (classics, history, philosophy, and religion). Other departments that have been of interest to students include economics, sociology, psychology, East Asian studies, and Near Eastern studies.

In addition to regularly offered seminars, graduate students may create reading courses under the direction of a faculty member to explore more specialized topics. Reading courses typically include one faculty member and one student, although some include several students.

Seminars end on the last regular day of classes (December and April), and students must complete all assigned short essays within one week of that day. Students complete their fall-term research papers by approximately the third week of January, and their spring-term research papers by the third week of May.

Additional pre-generals requirements

Writing Requirement Each student is required to write at least three research papers in the first three years, at least two of which must be completed in the second year. With the approval and advice of the instructor, a research paper may be completed in a seminar and counted toward the seminar grade.

In addition, each student is required to take one term of directed research (POL 591) in the spring term of the second year. This project is independent of any seminar. To encourage students to become involved in research and collaboration with faculty as soon as possible, students select their independent work adviser and the general topic of their paper by mid-term in the spring term of the first year. Students convey these choices to the director of graduate studies in writing. This paper often builds on prior work done in a seminar. Students are required to present the POL 591 paper in the appropriate research seminar during the fall or spring term of the second year. The final paper is due by August 30 before the fifth semester.

Students are urged to use these various research and writing experiences to build toward a dissertation. For example, a student with a promising seminar paper might use POL 591 to do more extensive research on the subject and to develop a dissertation proposal based on it.

In order to encourage students to write papers of article length, all research papers are limited to 22,000 words. This applies to papers written for seminars and for POL 591.

Research Seminars Every year the department offers research seminars in each of the four major fields of political science (political theory, comparative politics/systems and culture, American politics, and international relations). Each enrolled student in residence is required to join one of these seminars each year, attend it regularly, and present their research at least once during the year. Research seminars are graded on a pass/fail basis.

Students present forms of work appropriate to their standing in the graduate program. First-year students typically offer seminar papers (sometimes in draft form), usually in the spring. Second-year students usually present their POL 591 paper.

General exam

Each student must successfully stand for the general examination and be recommended for continuation in the program before undertaking dissertation research. The purpose of the general examination is to ascertain a student’s knowledge of political science and his or her preparedness for advanced research. The best preparation is extensive seminar work in the department, supplemented as necessary by independent reading and study.

The general examination consists of written examinations in three separate fields and an oral examination. Students may opt to take written examinations in two rather than three fields on the condition that they complete 14 (rather than the required 12) graded seminars, including a coherent three-course 500-level sequence in a third field (but not including SPI 507b, 508b, or 508c). Students must receive an average grade of B or better in these three courses in order for them to be used for the third field. These courses must be chosen from outside the fields covered by the two written exams.

Normally at least two of a student’s general examination fields are selected from the seven regular examination fields listed below. A student may design a third, “substitute” field to replace the third regular examination field. Substitute fields should cohere with the student’s educational and research interests, and must not substantially overlap with the student’s other fields. A student may propose either a standard exam from another department (for example, political economy in economics) or in unusual circumstances a special examination. Special examinations require the agreement of a sponsoring faculty member in another department and the director of graduate studies. Alternatively, the “substitute” third field may be completed under the two-exam, 14-course option described above.

The politics faculty regularly sets examinations in the following seven fields: political theory, comparative politics, regional studies, American politics, international relations, public law, and formal and quantitative analysis. The Regional Studies exams test for mastery of theoretical and empirical knowledge about one of the following world regions: Africa, Asia (with the possibility to specify East Asia, Southeast Asia, or South Asia), Latin America, the Middle East, Western Europe, or the Former Soviet Union and East Europe.  Students must specify in advance the region in which they are specializing.

All written examinations are four hours in length, with an additional hour for preparation. All written examinations are closed-book. An oral examination will be administered in every case in which the candidate’s grade on the overall written examination averages to 1.995 or worse or the candidate’s grade on any individual field exam is 1.995 or worse. For students receiving a grade better than 1.995 on the overall written exam and each field of the written exam, the requirement of an oral examination is waived. The oral examination is conducted by a faculty panel, with one member from each of the fields in which the student is being examined. For students taking only two written exams, the faculty panel for the oral examination will include two members of the primary field.  The faculty panels of the oral examination are constituted by the DGS.

Students must stand for the general examination no later than the end of the fourth term of enrollment. They may opt to take the examination sooner. All students must complete at least seven graded seminars at Princeton before taking the general examination.

Qualifying for the M.A.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree is normally an incidental degree on the way to full Ph.D. candidacy. To qualify for the award of the M.A., a student must earn an average grade of B- or better in 12 seminars and complete two research papers with a grade of B- or better. The M.A. may also be awarded to students who, for various reasons, leave the Ph.D. program, provided that these requirements have been met. 

Each student must lead undergraduate preceptorials during the five years of enrollment. Students typically teach after passing the general examination. A preceptorial is a discussion section of up to 13 undergraduates, which meets once a week as a supplement to a faculty-taught lecture course.

By April of each year, each student must inform the department manager which semesters they are available to teach in the next academic year. Each student is ultimately required to be available to teach for a minimum of four semesters. The student must accept any number of precepts offered in a class during the agreed upon semesters, up to a maximum of three precepts. The requirement that a student be available for teaching is waived once the student has led a minimum of nine preceptorials. Each student is expected to lead preceptorials in at least one undergraduate class as part of satisfying the teaching requirement.

The teaching requirement may be reduced to as few as six preceptorials if a student obtains substantial funding from outside the University or work as a research assistant for a faculty member during an academic year or term. The teaching requirement is reduced to three preceptorials if students graduate within four and a half years or begin a tenure-track job or its equivalent within five years.  The teaching requirement is waived entirely if students graduate within three years or begin a tenure-track job or its equivalent within three and a half years.

Certain fellowships for which post-generals students may be eligible do not allow teaching during the tenure of the fellowship. These include University honorific fellowships, Prize Fellowships of the University Center for Human Values, and the Fellowship of the Woodrow Wilson Society. Students who expect to be candidates for these fellowships are advised to accelerate their teaching so that their teaching obligation will not interfere with their eligibility.

Dissertation and FPO

Before presenting the prospectus in the student’s subfield research seminar, the student should select three advisers for the prospectus.  At least two members of the prospectus committee must be regular members of the politics department.  Before the end of the fifth semester, with the approval of the prospectus committee, each student will present a draft prospectus or first dissertation chapter to the student’s subfield research seminar, if possible with the advisers present. The seminar will function as a workshop where advice can be given about the definition of the topic and plan of research. The prospectus or dissertation chapters should be 12,000-25,000 words. Students are required to secure final acceptance of the prospectus from their advisers before the end of the sixth term of enrollment in order to remain in good standing.

After the prospectus has been approved, students should designate at least two readers to advise the writing of the dissertation.  Students may change this designation as needed.  In order to serve as first or second readers, the advisers must be members of the Princeton faculty at the rank of assistant professor or above, and at least one must be a member of the politics department. During the third, fourth, or fifth year, a third reader is identified by the student in consultation with the first two readers.  Students must first secure the consent of the third reader and submit the name for approval by the director of graduate studies (DGS).  The third reader is normally a Princeton faculty member, but may instead be a faculty member at another university holding the rank of assistant professor or above. Any external readers must be of comparable standing in a relevant branch of the scholarly community.  Third readers are less involved in advising than are the first two readers. The DGS appoints a fourth reader.  Students should submit the names of three appropriate faculty members, along with the title of the dissertation, to the DGS in order to initiate the process of appointing a fourth reader.  The fourth reader is normally a member of the politics department.  The fourth reader is expected to read only the final version of the dissertation.

A final public oral examination is scheduled no fewer than fourteen calendar days after the approval of the thesis.  At least three examiners, two of whom have not served as first or second readers of the dissertation, and at least two of whom are members of the University faculty, conduct the examination.  Normally, therefore, the committee must consist of the first and/or the second reader and the third and fourth readers.  After the student successfully defends their thesis, he or she is recommended to the Graduate School for receipt of a doctoral degree.

• Kristopher W. Ramsay (interim)

Associate Chair

• Layna Mosley

Director of Graduate Studies

• Arthur Spirling

Director of Undergraduate Studies

• Gary J. Bass
• Mark R. Beissinger
• Charles R. Beitz
• Carles Boix
• Charles M. Cameron
• Rafaela M. Dancygier
• Aaron L. Friedberg
• Paul Frymer
• Robert P. George
• Matias Iaryczower
• G. John Ikenberry
• John Kastellec
• Melissa Lane
• Frances E. Lee
• John B. Londregan
• Stephen J. Macedo
• Nolan McCarty
• Tali Mendelberg
• Helen V. Milner
• Andrew Moravcsik
• Jan-Werner Müller
• Alan W. Patten
• Grigore Pop-Eleches
• Markus Prior
• Kristopher W. Ramsay
• Jacob N. Shapiro
• Rocío Titiunik
• James Raymond Vreeland
• Leonard Wantchekon
• Ismail K. White
• Jennifer A. Widner
• Deborah J. Yashar

Associate Professor

• Gregory A. Conti
• Jonathan F. Mummolo
• LaFleur Stephens-Dougan
• Hye Young You

Assistant Professor

• Christopher W. Blair
• German S. Gieczewski
• Tanushree Goyal
• Naima N. Green-Riley
• Saad A. Gulzar
• Gleason Judd
• Nicholas Kuipers
• Elizabeth R. Nugent
• Temi Ogunye
• Rebecca L. Perlman
• Guadalupe Tuñón
• Andreas B. Wiedemann

Associated Faculty

• Christopher L. Eisgruber, President
• Daniel Garber, Philosophy
• Elizabeth L. Paluck, Psychology
• Philip N. Pettit, Center for Human Values
• Kim Lane Scheppele, Schl of Public & Int'l Affairs
• Michael Smith, Philosophy
• Brandon M. Stewart, Sociology

For a full list of faculty members and fellows please visit the department or program website.

Permanent Courses

Courses listed below are graduate-level courses that have been approved by the program’s faculty as well as the Curriculum Subcommittee of the Faculty Committee on the Graduate School as permanent course offerings. Permanent courses may be offered by the department or program on an ongoing basis, depending on curricular needs, scheduling requirements, and student interest. Not listed below are undergraduate courses and one-time-only graduate courses, which may be found for a specific term through the Registrar’s website. Also not listed are graduate-level independent reading and research courses, which may be approved by the Graduate School for individual students.

ECO 520 - Economics and Politics (also POL 577)

Gss 543 - interest groups and social movements in american politics and policy (also aas 543/ams 543/pol 543), phi 503 - plato's political philosophy (half-term) (also cla 530/pol 556), pol 502 - mathematics for political science, pol 503 - survey analysis, pol 505 - experimental methods in political science, pol 506 - qualitative methods (also spi 595), pol 507 - topics in plato (half-term) (also cla 507/hls 507/phi 507), pol 511 - problems in political theory, pol 516 - politics of middle east authoritarianism in comparative perspective (half-term), pol 517 - international political theory, pol 518 - political philosophy (also phi 529), pol 519 - john stuart mill's politics: ideas and context, pol 520 - democracy and its enemies (half-term), pol 521 - the study of comparative politics, pol 524 - introduction to critical theory (half-term), pol 528 - the study of comparative politics: institutions and behavior, pol 530 - the politics of growth & redistribution, pol 533 - clientelism and state capture, pol 538 - comparative political behavior, pol 541 - judicial politics, pol 542 - american political institutions, pol 544 - introduction to american politics, part i: political behavior, pol 547 - identity politics, pol 548 - political psychology, pol 549 - seminar in american politics, pol 550 - international organization, pol 551 - seminar in international politics, pol 552 - seminar in media and politics, pol 553 - political theory, athens to augustine: graduate seminar (also cla 535/hls 552/phi 552), pol 554 - international security studies, pol 561 - constitutional theory, pol 563 - philosophy of law (also phi 526), pol 565 - theories of judicial review, pol 568 - hegel and marx, pol 570b - seminar in formal theory: american politics theory (half-term), pol 571 - empirical research methods for political science, pol 572 - quantitative analysis i, pol 573 - quantitative analysis ii (also soc 595), pol 574 - quantitative analysis iv, pol 575 - formal political analysis i, pol 576 - formal political analysis ii, pol 578 - seminar in quantitative analysis, pol 581 - advanced political institutions, pol 584 - foundations of political economy (also eco 576), pol 585 - international political economy, pol 588 - political theory of french revolution, pol 589 - states, democracies, nations, pol 591 - directed research, pol 592 - social movements and revolutions, pol 593 - research seminar, pol 594 - research seminar, pol 595 - research seminar, pol 596 - research seminar, pol 597 - research seminars, pol 599 - responsible conduct of research in political science, spi 556b - topics in ir (also las 566/pol 564), spi 556d - topics in ir (also pol 522), spi 561 - the comparative political economy of development (also pol 523), spi 590b - politics of inequality and redistribution (half-term) (also pol 598), spi 595b - phd seminar: qualitative research design (also pol 509).

Doctoral Program

Program Overview

The principal goal of the Stanford Ph.D. program in political science is the training of scholars. Most students who receive doctorates in the program do research and teach at colleges or universities. We offer courses and research opportunities in a wide variety of fields in the discipline, including American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, and Political Methodology. The program is built around small seminars that analyze critically the literature of a field or focus on a research problem. These courses prepare students for the Ph.D. comprehensive exam requirement within a two-year period and for work on the doctoral dissertation.

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The Department of Government at Harvard is a world leader in the study of political science, and the department’s faculty covers a wide range of fields and methodologies. The department’s breadth and depth allows you to pursue groundbreaking research on a variety of topics. The doctoral program’s diversity and flexibility enables scholars from all backgrounds and interests to thrive.

In the Department of Government, you will study and do research with the faculty of the department and leading scholars in other Harvard departments and schools, including Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School. You have access to unparalleled resources, ranging from the largest university library in the world to the Harvard research computing cluster to a wide array of centers and institutes associated with the department.

Graduates of the department write dissertations on topics ranging from ancient political theory to the politics of cybersecurity. They go on to jobs at leading academic institutions, companies, government agencies, and nonprofits.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Government and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies . 

Areas of Study

American Government | Comparative Politics | International Relations | Political Thought and Its History | Quantitative Methods/Formal Theory

Admissions Requirements

Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Government .

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required as part of the application and should be a recent scholarly or critical paper, 15 to 25 pages in length.

For the coordinated JD/PhD  in law and political science, applicants must apply separately to each program and indicate in the application to the PhD program that a concurrent application has been submitted to the Harvard Law School.

Personal Statement

Standardized tests.

GRE General: Required Writing Sample: Required (15-25 pages) iBT TOEFL preferred minimum score: 105 IELTS preferred minimum score: 7.5

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Government

See list of Government faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

Department of Political Science College of Liberal Arts

Our Graduate Programs

Graduate Study in Political Science at Purdue offers specializations in traditional fields such as American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Public Policy, and possesses strengths in areas that cut across traditional fields, such as technology and governance, political methodology, political economy and development, political institutions and institutional reform, environmental policy, national security, human rights and political violence, and politics related to group identity and conflict.

Graduate students and faculty at Purdue participate in research labs and programs in the department, including the Governance and Responsible AI Lab (GRAIL) , the International Politics and Responsible Tech (iPART) Lab , the Computational Social Science Lab , the Law and Conflict Research Lab,  and the labs associated with the Purdue Program on American Institutional Renewal.  

Students and faculty also participate in Purdue's many interdisciplinary research centers and collaborative groups on campus including the Center for CSPAN Scholarship and Engagement , the  Institute for a Sustainable Future , the Purdue Policy Research Institute . Students receive rigorous training in a wide range of research methods in the department and through workshops, coursework, and speakers in the cross-college initiative Advanced Methods at Purdue (AMAP).

If you are considering doctoral study, please explore the information on the Prospective Students page.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Political Science

Doctoral students specialize (major) in American, Comparative, International Relations or Public Policy with a secondary specialization (minor) in: a) one of the major fields, b) political methodology, or c) a custom designed field. Our curriculum has ample room to explore interdisciplinary interests and applied fields. We welcome students with interests in traditional academic career paths and applied career paths.

Doctoral students become deeply immersed in the process of scholarly research and are quickly prepared to be full collaborators and independent researchers. We encourage students to execute research projects in preparation for academic and applied careers. In addition, we prepare doctoral students for independent classroom instruction and make every effort to provide an independent teaching experience for each doctoral student completing our program. 

Master of Arts Degree in Political Science

Generally, we only admit to the M.A. program those students who are interested in pursuing both the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. Students who apply to our program with a Bachelor's degree or an M.A. in another field will complete the M.A. in political science as part of the curriculum of the M.A./Ph.D program. 

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• PhD in Political Science

The Graduate Program in Political Science offers an intellectually stimulating and collegial environment for the training of PhD candidates. The program is highly selective, enrolling an average of six students a year, all of whom receive full funding. The Graduate Faculty of Political Science at Boston University is a diverse community of scholars stretching across several departments and schools. Students may also take advantage of the broader resources in the Boston area. Entering students must have a BA or MA. The program trains students in research and teaching methods, preparing them for positions in colleges and universities, research institutions, and government agencies. For a complete description of our program, please visit our website .

Learning Outcomes

• Produce and defend an original and significant contribution to knowledge in the discipline of political science.
• Demonstrate mastery of subject material by developing a minimum level of competence in five of the six fields of political science (American politics, public policy, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and methodology) and a high level of competence in two of these fields.
• Participate in professional academic community activities, such as attending local seminar series, presenting papers at conferences, and submitting papers to academic journals.
• Be able to teach the discipline at the undergraduate level.

Course Requirements

Students are required to complete 64 graduate-level units. Those entering the program from a Boston University MA program will be able to transfer over some of their course units by arrangement with the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

Selection of courses must be approved by the DGS. Courses may be drawn from the offerings of the Department of Political Science as well as other disciplines such as economics, history, mathematics and statistics, philosophy, and sociology, subject to the following requirements:

Core Seminars

Four Core Seminars should be completed in year 1:

• CAS PO 711 Approaches to the Study of American Politics
• CAS PO 751 Approaches to the Study of Comparative Politics
• CAS PO 771 Approaches to the Study of International Relations
• CAS PO 791 Approaches to the Study of Political Theory

Methodology

Three out of four graduate-level methodology courses are required:

• CAS PO 841 Quantitative Research Methods
• CAS PO 842 Qualitative Approaches to the Study of Political Science
• CAS PO 843 Techniques in Political Analysis: Maximum Likelihood Estimation
• CAS PO 844 Methods for Causal Inference

Students may petition the DGS to replace one or more of these courses with equivalent or more advanced courses from other departments.

Research Workshop

Two terms of CAS PO 903/904 Research Workshop must be taken in years 2 or 3.

Professional Development

CAS PO 702 Professional Development for PhD Candidates in Political Science must be taken in years 2 or 3.

Language Requirement

There is no general language requirement. However, if knowledge of a foreign language is necessary for their research, students are encouraged to develop that competence prior to defending their PhD proposal.

Qualifying Examinations

As one element of the qualifying examination, students must submit an independent research paper of high quality. Typically, this will involve the substantial revision, expansion, and polishing of a graduate seminar paper. In addition, timed qualifying examinations are given in two fields of the student’s choosing: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and methodology. After passing all three elements of the qualifying exam, students proceed to their dissertation work.

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination

Candidates shall demonstrate their abilities for independent study in a dissertation representing original research. Candidates must undergo a final oral examination in which they defend their dissertation before their committee and any others who may wish to attend. All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree .

Any student who has successfully completed all course requirements and has passed the qualifying exam may request that a master’s degree be granted.

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Academic Catalog 2024-2025

Political science, phd.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science is grounded in the core fields of the discipline—American government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. Students identify a primary and secondary field as areas of emphasis. The curriculum introduces students to the core fields and also seeks to develop their research skills through a series of methods courses. Students may develop a traditional, academic focus in one of the fields, or they may combine it with public policy to highlight a policy orientation. The program focuses on preparing students to be academic scholars and teachers as well as practitioners in research and public service. The PhD degree includes completion of required courses, passing a written and oral comprehensive examination, and the successful defense of the dissertation before a faculty committee.

Credit Requirements and Advanced Standing

Students entering with a bachelor’s degree must complete 56 semester hours. Students currently in the MA or MPA program and accepted into the PhD program before completing the MA or MPA must complete 56 semester hours as well as all curriculum requirements of the PhD program.

Students entering with a master’s degree may receive advanced standing for relevant prior coursework but must complete a minimum of 40 semester hours. Students entering with a Northeastern MA in political science or international affairs must complete a minimum of 24 semester hours while also satisfying all PhD course requirements. Master's-level coursework that results in advanced standing is evaluated by the graduate program director to determine its applicability to the PhD curriculum.

Doctoral Degree Candidacy

Doctoral degree candidacy is attained after successfully completing all coursework, comprehensive examination, and the dissertation proposal defense.

Academic Standing/Progress

All doctoral students must maintain an overall cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.500 while making progress toward the degree requirements. Students who fall below any applicable standard for two consecutive semesters are subject to dismissal from the graduate program. Additionally, receipt of financial support administered by the department, college, or university is contingent on satisfactory academic progress toward the degree and specific guidelines as published in the terms of award. Students who have ungraded courses or courses graded as incomplete risk no longer being eligible for financial aid awards.

Language Proficiency

Students who conduct research in a language other than English must demonstrate proficiency as necessary for completion of the dissertation. Language courses do not count as electives.

• Concentrations and course offerings may vary by campus and/or by program modality.  Please consult with your advisor or admissions coach for the course availability each term at your campus or within your program modality.  
• Certain options within the program may be  required  at certain campuses or for certain program modalities.  Please consult with your advisor or admissions coach for requirements at your campus or for your program modality. 

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Annual review Comprehensive examination Dissertation committee Dissertation proposal Dissertation proposal oral defense Language (as determined by committee) PhD candidacy Dissertation defense

Core Requirements

Courses from other disciplines may be chosen in consultation with your faculty advisor.

Dissertation

Program Credit/GPA Requirements

56 total semester hours required Minimum 3.500 GPA required

Complete all courses and requirements listed below.

Consult the graduate program director regarding which major-required courses apply to your individual plan of study.

24-40 total semester hours required Minimum 3.500 GPA required

1  You must complete both field seminars in the two areas you wish to take the comprehensive exams in.

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Loyola University Chicago

Department of political science, phd in political science.

The PhD program in political science is intended for students who wish to acquire careers in teaching and research or work in the government or the private sector. The focus includes the four fields of American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory. Students will take most of their courses and specialize in two fields. One of the two fields will constitute the major field and the other the minor field.  Interested students should refer to the Prospective PhD Students information page .

Degree Outcomes and Professional Success  

The PhD in Political Science offers students:

• An in-depth understanding of the theories and scholarly literature in the subfields of Comparative Politics (study of political regimes, including the state, development and modernization, political, economic, and social movements), International Relations (study of global processes throughout the international system), American Politics (study of U.S. institutions and political processes), and Political Theory (study of political philosophy ranging from Ancient to Modern and Contemporary political thought).
• Extensive methods training, including research design and statistical analysis, that will enable the successful candidate to effectively design and conduct research.
• Research and teaching training by serving as both a research assistant for department faculty and professor of record for at least one class during the period of the PhD student’s funding.
• An enhanced ability to express their thoughts in writing (all Political Science graduate classes include a significant writing component).
• Preparation for careers in research and teaching at colleges and universities or work in the government, non-profit, and private sectors.

We also encourage our PhD students to take advantage of additional learning opportunities:

• Advanced methodological training
• Advanced language training/proficiency in a language other than English
• Advanced research skills
• International, cross-cultural experience
• Professional development and experience
• Networking opportunities

Degree Requirements

1. Completion of the Master's degree (those students who did not come to Loyola with an M.A. can take the MA comprehensive exam after having completed 10 courses, including PLSC 401, 475 and 476, and earn an MA).

2. Forty-eight semester hours (16 courses) of work, six hours (2 courses) of which can be in a related discipline. Required coursework includes:

a. Methodology (475 must be taken in the first fall semester):

• PLSC 401: Research Design                   
• PLSC 475: Techniques of Political Analysis I
• PLSC 476: Techniques of Political Analysis II

b. Four classes (12 credits) in major field (International Relations, Comparative Politics, American Politics, or Political Theory) and three classes (9 credits) in minor field (International Relations, Comparative Politics, American Politics, or Political Theory).

c. Any 5 elective courses (15 credits), chosen from at least two subfields (International Relations, Comparative Politics, American Politics, or Political Theory).

d. One Directed Readings course (PLSC 499) to develop a dissertation proposal. This course should be taken in the last semester of that the student takes courses.

Note: Students may be required to develop language proficiency to conduct research for their doctoral dissertations. The Graduate School can offer tuition credit for PhD students who need to take language courses that are necessary for dissertation research.

3. Comprehensive Exams: Candidates must pass comprehensive examinations. The comprehensive examinations have both written and oral components. All course requirements, including removal of all existing incompletes, must be fulfilled before students can take the written comprehensive exam.

4. Dissertation Proposal and Dissertation: Candidates must complete and successfully defend both a dissertation proposal and the completed dissertation. Sometime in the third year of study, students are expected for form a dissertation committee, with the assistance of the Graduate Program Director.

Note: Students may transfer up to 12 semester hours (4 courses) of graduate credit from another university program based on an evaluation of their transcript. Students must complete four semesters of residence, including at least two consecutive semesters at Loyola. At least one academic year (two consecutive semesters) must be spent as a full-time student.  

Acceptance is based on a consideration of the following:

• Online application (free)
• Undergraduate academic record (applicant must provide all college transcripts)
• Three letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose, not to exceed two single-spaced pages, describing academic interests and professional goals
• Please see the Prospective Doctoral Students Webpage for additional explanation of the above requirements.

Acceptance will be on a rolling basis, with a February 15 th  application deadline.

Program Length & Time Limits  

The average time-frame nation-wide for students to earn the PhD is six years. Completing the course work and passing the comprehensive exams normally takes two-and-a-half to three years, the remainder of the time to degree is principally up to the student. Some of our students have completed the PhD in just under five years.

Graduate School regulations require students entering the program with a Bachelor's Degree to complete all Ph.D. requirements, including the dissertation, within eight years of taking their first course in the degree program. Students admitted to the doctoral program with a Master's degree must complete all Ph.D. requirements, including the dissertation, within six years of the start of their program. A student failing to meet these deadlines may submit a petition to the Graduate Studies Committee requesting an extension of the relevant deadline. The final authority to extend the time limits resides in the Graduate School.

For further information, please contact Professor Eric Hansen, Graduate Program Director for Political Science, at [email protected]  or 773.508.3053.

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Graduate Program

About the graduate program.

The doctoral program in political science at Washington University is one of the top programs in the country. Graduate students take classes and engage in research with a faculty recognized nationally and internationally as among the most expert, active, and productive in the country.

Job Training and Placement

Washington University's PhD program in political science is designed to prepare students for academic careers in research and teaching at major institutions across the country. We pride ourselves on our job placement on the academic job market. Our graduates go on to have successful careers in tenure track jobs, and our placement record is among the top in the discipline.

While our program stresses the importance of political methodology (applied statistics) and formal theory (game theory and mathematical modeling), our program is designed to train all students in these methods, regardless of their mathematical background. We provide professional training in the discipline through our professional development seminar and we encourage our students to attend professional meetings and participate in convention programs.

We have active research groups in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, positive and normative theory, and political methodology. We are also building a research group in race and ethnic politics and a number of students work in the field of political economy, collaborating with faculty in political science, economics, law, and business.

It is important to emphasize that we do not regard these sub-fields as separate entities. Many of our faculty have research and teaching interests that transcend political science subfields, as well as traditional disciplinary boundaries. We have strong connections with other departments at Washington University, including economics, anthropology, the law school, and with various interdisciplinary research centers on campus.

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Dihan Shi and Guillermo Rosas' new article "“If Foreign, Then Cleaner”: Individual Corruption Perceptions and Support for Free Trade in Developing Nations" has been published in International Studies Quarterly.

Program Highlights

Job placement.

We pride ourselves on our job placement on the academic job market, and our placement record is among the top in the discipline. We place about 90 percent of our students, and we place most of them in tenure-track positions.

Financial Support

Our incoming classes are fully funded, covering tuition and living expenses. We try to provide financial support for our students during most if not all of their time at Washington University.

Graduate students take classes and engage in research with a faculty recognized nationally and internationally as among the most expert, active, and productive in the country.

Collaborative Publications

Graduate students regularly collaborate with our nationally and internationally recognized faculty to publish original work. Browse a selection of books, articles, book chapters, and other publications that have been coauthored by graduate students and faculty.

Master’s Degree in Statistics for Political Science Ph.D. Students

The Master’s Degree in Statistics is a tailored master’s degree program in statistics within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics for graduate students in Political Science. Note that while the program is designed to serve political science graduate students, it is run by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Graduate Life

Our graduate program is relatively small. We admit around 10-12 students into the PhD program each year, and most of these complete the doctorate, generally in five to six years. There are a little over forty graduate students currently in residence.

Our department has long had a reputation for collegiality, and for treating graduate students as participants in the enterprise of teaching and research to which the faculty is committed, and from which we get a good deal of satisfaction, and fun. Every graduate student is assigned a peer mentor to welcome them in to our program and build community support across graduate cohorts. 

The University is centrally located in Saint Louis, Missouri, a metropolitan area rich in heritage and cultural offerings with an increasingly diverse community. Most faculty and students live in the neighborhoods immediately surrounding our attractive campus, but there is much to do and explore all over the Saint Louis region.

Graduate Resources

Find commonly used resources here, or see all resources. 

Guide to Graduate Studies (pdf)

policies and procedures for requirements, advising, formal evaluation, and more

Graduate Directory

find a listing of current graduate students

Graduate Requirements

view teaching and curriculum requirements

Graduate Placement

Search more resources.

• The Office of Graduate Studies in Arts & Sciences
• Office for International Students and Scholars
• WashU Resources

Have questions?

We're here to help! Feel free to reach out via the departmental contact form. 

The Department of Political Science

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The Johns Hopkins University Department of Political Science is known for its strength in theory and in innovative and trans-disciplinary approaches to uncovering new knowledge and the program of doctoral study draws on these strengths to provide rigorous training. Our program is designed for highly qualified, intellectually curious, and creative graduate students who can benefit by learning from and contributing to this community of scholars.

Doctoral students develop in-depth knowledge of a major field and a minor field (or two major fields), chosen from American politics, comparative politics, international relations, law and politics, and political theory. In addition, doctoral students may complete a certificate in comparative racial politics.

Students have opportunities to work closely with faculty and to pursue independent research, and faculty and doctoral students benefit from strong connections with colleagues in other social science and humanities disciplines and opportunities to collaborate with them.

The preparation of the next generation of scholars in the field of political science is a key part of the Johns Hopkins political science department faculty’s commitment to research and advancing the understanding of politics. The doctoral program reflects the distinctive strengths of the department’s cross-cutting intellectual orientations (encompassing the themes of power and inequality, identities and allegiances, agency and structure, and borders and flows), realized in faculty and Ph.D. student research and teaching.

The department and Krieger School of Arts and Sciences provide opportunities for developing teaching and other career-related skills.

Interested in Pursuing an MA?

Our sister schools offer a variety of degree programs.

• Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Study
• Johns Hopkins Advanced Academic Programs

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Politics (MA)

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General Admission Contact The New School for Social Research Office of Admission 72 Fifth Avenue, 1st floor New York, NY 10011 212.229.5600 or 800.523.5411 [email protected]

Admission Liaison [email protected]

Department of Politics 6 East 16th Street, room 711A New York, NY 10003 Phone: 212.229.5747 x3090 Fax: 212.229.5473

Mailing Address 79 Fifth Avenue, room 711A New York, NY 10003 

Chair Victoria Hattam

Senior Secretary Aaron Neber

Student Advisor Lydia Nobbs

Politics Student Handbook

Admission Links

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The MA in Politics is a 30-credit program that introduces students to critical, historical, and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of politics.

Students can specialize in one subfield of politics — political theory, comparative politics, global politics, or American politics — or they can gain a broader understanding of the field by taking courses in multiple fields.

• Degree Master of Arts (MA)
• Credits 30 credits
• Format Full-time or part-time, on-campus
• Duration 2 years (full-time)
• Start Term Fall or Spring

View current tuition and fees View fellowship and funding opportunities

MA students work closely with a faculty advisor, especially on the final MA paper. They take courses with PhD students in the department and participate in the rich intellectual life of the department and NSSR. The degree prepares them for PhD study in the field or for careers in policymaking, activism, NGOs, law, and beyond.

A full account of degree requirements and procedures is contained in the  Politics student handbook .

To earn the MA in Politics, a student must complete a total of 30 credits with a minimum grade point average of 3.0.

A maximum of three credits taken at another university may be granted toward the credit requirement for the master's degree. Twenty-seven credits must be completed at The New School for Social Research. First Year Seminar Required for all MA candidates in the first year, the First Year Seminar is designed to introduce students to the work of the faculty in the Politics department, who give guest lectures in the course and whose work students read. Through these interactions, students come to understand contending concepts and core approaches in analyzing politics.

Politics Courses Students will take at least six courses (18 credits) and up to nine courses in the Politics department. They can focus on a particular subfield or theme or range widely. Courses offered by other departments of The New School for Social Research that are cross-listed in Politics may be used to meet the requirement for 18 Politics credits. One of these courses must be a course in qualitative methods or interpretive methods.

Students must take at least two core "foundations" courses at the 5000 level, which are designed to expose them to core problems and literatures in a field of study.

Many cross-listed courses do have prerequisites. The course instructor and the chair of the department or committee offering a course will determine whether a Politics student meets the prerequisites and can be admitted to the course in question. Courses that are not cross-listed in Politics may be taken only as electives (see below) except with special permission from the Politics department.

Elective Courses The remaining three courses (9 credits) are electives that may be taken within or outside the Politics department. The department encourages students to avail themselves of the rich course offerings of the other departments of The New School for Social Research, with appropriate guidance from advisors, so as to maximize the coherence of the overall program of study.

Graduate Minors Students can use elective courses toward completing one of the university’s  graduate minors . These structured pathways of study immerse master's and doctoral students in disciplines outside their primary field and expose them to alternative modes of research and practice. Completed graduate minors are officially recorded on students' transcript. 

MA Thesis In addition to completing the 30 credits of coursework, MA candidates must provide evidence of ability to carry out a significant intellectual research project in the field. This ability is established by the submission of the MA thesis paper, which may originate as a paper submitted for courses. Students must consult with a faculty advisor when planning their thesis. The MA thesis will be evaluated by a full-time member of the faculty of Politics.

Students in the Politics MA program can apply to enter the PhD program after completing 18 credits at The New School for Social Research. They should apply by the time they have completed 27 credits.

The sequential Bachelor's-Master's (BAMA) program allows qualified New School undergraduate students to complete two degrees in as little as five years while saving up to 75 percent on tuition costs. Through the program, students delve deep into subjects they care about, gain expertise early in their education, and improve their job prospects with a graduate degree.

Every Master of Arts program at NSSR is paired with related New School bachelor’s programs, with established pathways and timelines for students to earn both undergraduate and graduate degrees. The following undergraduate programs are paired with the Politics MA program:

• Global Studies (BA) through Lang or BPATS
• Liberal Arts (BA or BS) through Lang or BPATS
• Politics (BA)

To learn more, visit the Bachelor’s-Master’s program page . Interested undergraduates should talk with their undergraduate advisors about specific BAMA requirements for their programs and application information and deadlines.

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To apply to any of our undergraduate programs (except the Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students and Parsons Associate of Applied Science programs) complete and submit the Common App online.

Undergraduate Adult Learners

To apply to any of our Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students and Parsons Associate of Applied Science programs, complete and submit the New School Online Application.

To apply to any of our Master's, Doctoral, Professional Studies Diploma, and Graduate Certificate programs, complete and submit the New School Online Application.

UP Department of Political Science

• Graduate Program

Graduate Admission

Admission Requirements

• For the PhD (Political Science) program: A Master’s degree in Political Science or a related field from a recognized institution of higher learning.
• For the MA (Political Science) program: a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science or a related field from a recognized institution of higher learning.
• For the Master in International Affairs (MIA) program: a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Political Science or a related field, from a recognized institution of higher learning.
• Applicants from UP must have obtained a General Weighted Average (GWA) of 2.00 or better in all previously completed degree programs; applicants from other universities must have obtained a GWA of 1.75 or better .
• All applicants pay a non-refundable fee of PhP100 if a Filipino citizen, PhP200 if a resident alien, and US$25 if a foreign citizen. Payment procedures will be emailed to applicants at the end of the application period.
• Applicants whose native language is not English will be required to submit proof of English proficiency (e.g., a TOEFL score of 80 for the internet-based test or 550 for the paper-based test), unless they come from institutions where the medium of instruction is English.
• All applicants are to present themselves for an interview (may be held online or onsite).

Required Documents (scanned documents to be submitted via email):

• Application form via this google form https://bit.ly/3LKPx9h .
• Original and complete Transcript of Records (TOR).
• Certificate of GWA.
• Original PSA-certified Birth Certificate (for Filipino citizens).
• Three (3) recommendation letters from former professors and/or employers (to be sent directly to the Department at [email protected]). Download the recommendation form here .
• Letter of application addressed to the Department Chair, Professor Aries A Arugay.
• PhD applicants: a short research proposal or capsule proposal on topic of interest (1,500-2,000 words) 
• MAPS applicants: a short research proposal or a concept note on a research problem (1,000-1,500 words)
• MIA applicants: a statement on research interest (800-1,000 words)

Application Period

For the PhD and MA (Political Science) programs: Deadlines June 15 (first semester entry) and  December 15  (second semester entry).

For the MIA program: Deadline June 15 (first semester entry only)

IMPORTANT: Please submit complete scanned documents to [email protected]. Hard copies of the original documents shall be required only upon acceptance to the program. Use the subject heading: 

APP-GRAD (1s 24-25)_PROGRAM_SURNAME_FIRST NAME

For non-UP graduates: Upon acceptance, the new entrant must submit hardcopies of the TOR, PSA birth certificate and original Honorable Dismissal or Transfer Credentials from their former university/institution. Please prepare this in advance. And please don’t hesitate to email us for inquiries. Always check this page for updates or further announcements on graduate program admissions.

CSSP Graduate Program Manual: https://polisci.upd.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/cssp_grad_manual.pdf

Note : After submitting your complete application documents, please wait for four to six weeks for our call and/or message for the schedule of the interview. Please do not follow up with us. The Department Staff will email/contact you. Thank you.

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MA in Political Science

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In the Master of Arts in Political Science program, students develop a foundation of academic study in their field of interest. MA students enroll to prepare for further graduate study (PhD, law, etc.) or to “craft their own adventure” beyond the BA basics. MA students may also take courses alongside doctoral students and are exposed to the same material, with courses as varied as Public Opinion and Psychology, Social Movements, International Security, and Game Theory, among others.

In addition to coursework, students participate in scholarly debates in their chosen field and hone statistical research techniques . Many go on to careers as political campaign strategists, professors, leaders in government and business and expert contributors at top media outlets.

Graduate Student Handbook

Request Information

The deadline for our MA program is April 1, 2025, for Fall 2025 admission. Our next PhD application deadline is Dec. 15, 2024, for Fall 2025 admission. If you have questions, please contact the Department Administrator by email: [email protected] .

Concentrations

All MA students must complete 15 of the total 33 required credits in one track:

• American Politics
• World Politics

Review the Bulletin requirements  for more details on each concentration.

Comprehensive Exams

At the end of their studies, all MA students must pass a comprehensive examination in one of the departmental tracks: American politics, world politics or law and politics.

Soon after their arrival in the department, students should speak with the professors who are the conveners for their chosen exam track. Professors will advise students about coursework that is most appropriate, combining the parameters of the field with the student's interests. Check with the  graduate director  about who the conveners are for the current year.

During the first semester, and no later than the second, students should fill out a plan of study in consultation with the director of graduate studies . This allows students and their advisors to plan for the entire program, and determine which classes are necessary to prepare for comprehensive exams.

Opportunities to take the exams are offered once per year in May. An extra exam may be scheduled in April for MA students planning to graduate in May. Be sure to contact the graduate advisor in advance to arrange this if necessary. 

Comprehensive exams are evaluated as fail, bare pass, satisfactory pass, or pass with distinction. Students must receive a grade of bare pass or better on the MA exam in order to fulfill this degree requirement. Students may retake an exam once, if necessary; under no circumstances may a student take a comprehensive examination a third time. Failure to demonstrate the required level of performance on comprehensive examinations after two efforts will result in termination from the program.

“I moved from being an academic to business to government, so a lot of the things I learned at GW — looking at the macro picture, being able to look strategically — I took with me.”

Anwar Gargash, BA ’81, MA ’84 UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

Course Requirements 

MA, PhD and Accelerated MA applications should be submitted through the  Graduate School  using their  online application .

The deadline for fall PhD and MA applications is December 15th . There is no spring admissions process for the PhD or MA programs. If you are interested in the Accelerated MA, you must apply by November 1st or April 1st.

A complete graduate application will include:

• Graduate School application
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcript(s)
• Personal Statement of Interest
• Writing sample
• Short Essay 
• GRE requirement is waived for fall 2025 admissions. 

Applicants to the Accelerated Master's program must have a minimum of 3.5 overall GPA from one of the Five Colleges. Hampshire College students are exempt from the GPA requirement since the College does not issue GPAs.

For other admissions questions and issues, please see the  UMass Amherst Graduate School FAQ .

Yes. We offer a limited number of teaching assistantships which come with a stipend, tuition waiver and waiver of most fees. Foreign students are eligible for TA appointments. Funding is only available for PhD students.

No. You also do not need to apply for the MA program before pursuing the PhD program. The Department admits the vast majority of students directly to the PhD program without an MA. The MA is not a prerequisite for the PhD. Funding is only offered to PhD students. 

Please specify in your application letter if you would like to be considered for both programs.

We expect personal statements to be around 2-3 pages single- spaced. Writing samples can be more flexible, but we encourage somewhere in the realm of 15-25 pages double-spaced.

PhD Admission

Deadline: December 15 for Fall admissions (no spring admissions)

Requirements: 

• Application
• GREs (waived for fall 2025 admission)
• Three (3) Letters of Recommendation
• Official Transcript(s)
• Short Essay (see SLATE application for prompt)
• Writing Sample

Accelerated MA Admission*

Deadline: November 1 and April 1

• GREs are *NOT* required
• Minimum of 3.5 overall GPA

*Only undergraduate students at UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Hampshire College, Smith College or Mount Holyoke College are eligible to apply

Department of Political Science Thompson Hall 200 Hicks Way UMass Amherst Amherst, MA 01003 Graduate Admissions Committee Chair: Regine Spector Associate Director of Academic Programs: Ariel Travis email: @email

• Degree Requirements
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• Concentration in Methodologies of Political Inquiry
• American Politics
• Comparative Politics
• International Relations
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Thompson Hall, 200 Hicks Way | Amherst, MA 01003 USA Phone: 413.545.2438 | Email: [email protected]

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• Political Science /

PhD in Political Science

• Updated on  
• Apr 28, 2023

Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science, or Ph.D. in Political Science, is a doctoral-level course. This program lasts between one and three years, although, for part-time Political Science students, it can last up to five years. A wide range of topics, including human rights, international politics, political theory, political economics, and more, are covered in the Ph.D. program in political science.

This Blog Includes:

What is ph.d. in political science, ph.d. political science syllabus, 4 parts of a ph.d. program (political science), degree options in political science, ph.d. in political science: eligibility, ph.d. in political science: universities, top universities in india, application & admission, careers and jobs after ph.d. in political science, popular job profiles and salary.

The vast field and subfields of political science offer students the opportunity to delve deeper into myriad issues related to international politics, governance, public administration , international relations , history, and much more. In particular, the Ph.D. in Political Science program caters to the interests of those individuals who wish to venture into advanced fields such as Area Studies, Public Policy, Law, Human Rights, political psychology, violence and war studies, and even topics related to Business, Globalisation, Financial Economics, etc. It provides individuals with the necessary flexibility and background to develop and express ideas, conduct research through quantitative and qualitative method, and analyzes cross-effects among socio-economic-cultural factors. In this blog, we will share some important details pertaining to this doctorate program.  

Owing to the diverse range, subdivisions, and specializations, there are different types of degree options for a Ph.D. in Political Science [3-8 years] one can pursue. This includes the traditional PhD program which includes a comprehensive coursework curriculum, research projects, electives, practical training, fieldwork, and teaching practicum along with a host of other elements. In addition to that, one can also go for an integrated PhD , an MPhil/PhD as well as dual PhD degrees amalgamating two different disciplines such as communication and political science, international relations and journalism, diplomacy and communication, etc. All of the above courses gear up an individual for a career in research in the capacities of research assistant , teaching assistant, and researcher in academic institutions, international research organizations, political consultancies, and governments, amongst others.

Also Read: International Relations Courses

While the Ph.D. in Political Science program is largely subjective and the department/university may implement varied eligibility conditions, in general, to enter such Ph.D. courses , one is required to possess a high-standing MA in Political Science or master’s degree in a related discipline, for instance, MA History, etc along with prior research, paper publication, assistantships under a professor or even professional experience. Relevant teaching exposure is also encouraged. In a fair amount of universities worldwide, one can also enroll directly after completing a BA in Political Science with strong credentials.

Related Article: Political Science Syllabus

As you may already be aware, institutions in the Ivy League(USA), London School of Economics & Political Science (UK), University of Toronto (Canada), etc have cemented themselves as household names when it comes to pursuing a PhD in Political Science as well as other Political Science Courses . However, there are many emerging study-abroad destinations and options which have steadily gained rankings, have internationally recognized faculty, and offer vibrant avenues for building a strong career in political science , amongst others. Here we mention a few of them.

Read more about pursuing doctorate programs at different destinations: Ph.D. in Europe , Ph.D. in France , Ph.D. in Canada  

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi
• University of Hyderabad [UOH], Hyderabad
• Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi
• IIT, Gandhinagar
• Banasthali Vidyapith University, Jaipur
• University of Delhi
• Amity University

As for application procedure, universities offering a PhD in Political Science conduct admissions through two routes namely, the general online application as well as through approaching professors directly. To gain admission through the latter route, your research interests must align with that of your potential professor. Application materials may also include GRE and IELTS / TOEFL scores, Research Proposals, statements of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR), official transcripts, and CVs, amongst others.

Here is a list of popular careers in political science :

• Advocate/Organizer
• Budget Examiner or Analyst
• Banking Analyst or Executive
• Career Counselor
• Congressional Officer/Committee Staffer
• Civil Services (Indian Administrative Services, Indian Foreign Services)
• Political Scientist
• Legislative Assistant
• Secretary to government departments 
• Human Rights Activists
• Legal Adviser to Political Parties
• Election and Campaign Manager
• Teacher/ Professor 
• Politician 
• Policy Analyst
• Public Relations Specialist
• Public Affairs Research Analyst
• Foreign Service Officer
• Corporate Manager
• Immigration Officer

Must Read Political Science Books!

Ans: Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science, or Ph.D. Political Science, is a degree that falls within the umbrella of the arts.

Ans: CRET, RET, and PET are some of the common entrance exams for Ph.D. Political Science admission.

Ans: Students can get placements globally and also appear for Indian Civil Services, Market Trend Analyst, or Professor in educational institutions.

A Ph.D. in Political Science, being a heavily research-inclined program requires consistent efforts toward one’s R&D goals and interests. If you wish to pursue it or any other Ph.D. programs, consult the experts and mentors at Leverage Edu who will in order to fulfill your study abroad dream  

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Sir i am studying in ma english so i am in interest in phd in political science i am eligible or not eligible please commend

Yes, you are eligible for PhD in Political Science!

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College of Social & Applied Human Sciences

Political Science MA

Improve your understanding of how political power and processes affect the daily lives of individuals around the globe

Whether you are considering a career within government, looking to make it in the private sector, or want to take your education to the next level by pursuing a PhD – the master of arts (MA) in political science at the University of Guelph will give you the competitive edge you need to get there.

This program revolves around the themes of Rights, Justice, Citizenship, and Identity (RJCI) . It is designed to investigate the role of politics in defining who we are, where we belong and what our rights and responsibilities are in this age of globalization and constant change. It also provides a thorough understanding of research and analysis techniques, mobilizing you for career opportunities in academia, government and industry.

Tailor your study to suit your interests and goals including selecting from optional concentrations of study.

Be guided by world-class researchers and supervisors as you choose between three routes to complete your degree: a thesis, a major research paper or exclusively through coursework.

Three Routes of Program Completion to Choose From

Course-based.

Expected completion: 2-3 semesters

Major Research Paper (MRP)

Expected completion: 3-4 semesters

Expected completion: 4-5 semesters

Two Optional Concentrations

  public policy & administration,   global justice & politics, admission requirements.

• Honours BA in political science with a minimum B+ (77-79%) GPA in the last two years of study.
• If you hold a BA in another social science field and are accepted into the program, you will be required to complete additional qualifying courses in the first two semesters of the program.
• A methodology course is necessary for admission to the graduate program. If not completed, you may be admitted with the requirement that you complete the extra course.
• If needed for your particular course of study, you are also expected to have an adequate working knowledge of a language in addition to English.

Political Science Faculty

Join faculty who are pursuing fascinating research on diverse and exciting topics. Have the opportunity to work alongside supervisors who are committed to you and your future development. Take advantage of well-published, world-renowned researchers and their depth of experience as they guide you along to your degree.

Humanitarian intervention, faith-based NGOs, intercultural competence

Law and politics, assisted reproduction policy, federalism

Digital technologies, Canadian politics, political communication

Take the next step

Start the application process and explore options for funding your education.

The Student Daily

Career, Notifications & Jobs

Career After MA in Political Science

April 7, 2021 by Son of Ghouse Leave a Comment

A Student who has done with his 12 th standard is rarely given an advice to join into the stream of Political Science and explore the career opportunities in that stream.

The main reason being there are lot of myths surrounding this course, like there is no scope in Political Science and only politicians do this course etc but the prime reason is people lack proper knowledge and awareness about this course, so today let’s burst all the myths and know all the career opportunities and scope after completing MA (Master of Arts) in Political Science.

Also Read: How to: Journalism Courses After 12th ?

Political Science:

Political Science, rarely also called as Politology , is the study of Politics. It helps us learn Government Policies and Governance system. Political Science also helps us understand political activities, political strategies, political know-how which are in use by National and International Political Parties to keep themselves afloat.

Political Science can be studied on three core subjects like Comparative Politics, International Behavior, and Political Theory. Political Science traditionally helps in obtaining in-depth knowledge from other social science subjects like economics, law, sociology, philosophy, journalism, social policy.

Career Scope after MA in Political Science

Above we have seen complete objectives to study MA Political Science and now let’s see the career prospects and scope after MA in Political Science. As the political science is a complete specialization of core subjects it gives wide career opportunities in different sectors like state and central government, educational institution, social service, and Journalism.

Without a delay let’s look into one by one,

#1 Teaching

Teaching being one of the career that can be chosen after MA, as you have core knowledge about every subject you could become expert and start teaching.. And the people who are passionate of teaching and want to design a bright future for upcoming generations can select this career route. The Salary paid in this profession would differ from the Institute to institute and to which grade you are teaching.

Also Read: Best Courses After 12th Commerce for Girls

#2 Journalism

Journalism is also one more profession post completion of Political Science, you could become editor or reporter in the NEWS channels or papers as you have complete knowledge about the Political thoughts, Policies by the government and also the International policies that are framed by government.

Also Read: What is Sociology and How to Become a Sociologist ?

There are many people who after completing their LLB Graduation for 3 years they tend to pursue MA in political science which could help them in handy whenever they want to know more about the articles and framework of constitution.

#4 Civil Services

The person who wants to clear Civil Services exam and become a IAS Officer MA political science will be crucial subject as the government official needs to understand the policies much better and also needs to have research methodology to frame new policies to the people.

#5 Political Consultant

The Elections in India have seen in the rise of Political strategies to win the election. Political Consultant has become a crucial integration into the parties to suggest them whom to field and who can win the election based on the heavy ground research.

#6 Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations are very crucial for any organization to run its business or to any political party to run its party when opposition is always waiting to malign its image. The person in this role have to give lot of press releases, write lot of articles and blogs and bring positive impact about the company.

Skill set to excel in this career:

As above mentioned job roles are more inclined towards the people and their livelihood, the person willing to have his career in this area should be more empathetic in nature when he takes any decisions through above mentioned roles.

• Communication Skills
• Reasoning Skills
• Analytical Skills
• Public Response Management
• Public Policy

Studies after MA Political Science:

Political Science is a vast subject and has huge scope to learn more and more, after completion of MA people can also choose to do other advanced courses like,

• M.Phil in Political Science – This Subject gives you opportunity  to learn about public administration, International politics, and Political sociology etc.
• Ph.D in Political Science – This doctorate program which is for 3 years helps you learn more techniques of research methodology to elaborately understand the Theory based topics learned during your graduation and post graduation. This will help you give speeches and seminars to other students.

Also Read: How to Become a Chartered Accountant After 12th ?

NOW, that you ’ ve gone through career scope after MA politics, lets look how to do your MA politics after 12 th .

Route to MA Political Science After 12 th

Now let’s know the qualification and eligibility for pursuing Political Science course after his/her 12 th standard.

• Student should complete his 12 th grade in any of the core subjects with 50% of marks.
• Student should graduate with BA (Bachelor of Arts ) in Political Science or any related subject. Humanities will also be preferred in Graduation.

BA (Bachelor of Arts ) in Political Science:

This is a 3 year undergraduate offered by many recognized universities in India and eligibility for this course is 10+2 with 55% of marks. Graduated student learns how to govern the country and will be able to evaluate the political and democratic process.

BA Political Science includes the certain syllabus in there semester programs;

• Constitution of India
• Principles of Political Science
• Theory of welfare, liberty, equality, Rights & Justice.
• Indian Political Thinkers like Raja Ram mohan roy, Swami Dayanand, Swami Vivekanand, Lal Lajpat Rai, Bala Gangadhar Tilak.
• Indian Political Thinkers like Mahatma Gandhi, JP Narayana, Jawahar lal Nehru.
• Public Administration
• International Affairs and World Outlook.
• Comparative Politics- Definitions, Framework etc
• Constitutionalism – History, Type, Structure

These are some of the core theories that are taught to the students over the 6 semesters which helps student to attain an depth knowledge about the Political decisions taken over the time.

Course Fees:

The course fees for BA Political science costs you depending on the college you get placed into and the Average college fees for the course is 5,000 to 40,000 per year. 

Colleges Offering BA Political Science Course:

• Loyola College   Chennai
• Chandigarh University Chandigarh
• St Xavier College Mumbai
• Christ University Bangalore
• Presidency University Kolkata

Also Read: How to Become DSP in Police ?

MA (Master of Arts) Political Science:

MA Political Science is an advanced 2 year post graduation course which provides more in depth knowledge about Political Science. MA Political Science covers public affairs, historical and modern Political agenda, international policy, Government system.

Qualification:

Person who wants to pursue MA in Political Science has to complete his Graduation in BA Political Science or should have completed any degree from the recognized university in any stream and also Humanities will be the most preferred.

You should attain a minimum a 50% of Marks in their graduation.

Entrance Exams for MA are:

• BHU PET  – Banaras Hindu University
• JNUEE    –  Jawaharlal Nehru University
• DUET     –  Dravidian University
• IPU CET   – Guru Gobind Indraprastha University

These are some of the entrance exams which could lead you into some of the top colleges offering the course. Entrance exam isn’t mandatory for many of the private colleges, admission into them would be based on first come first serve.

Course Fee:

MA political science course would cost you around 20,000-80,000/- per year.

Can we do as Distance Education?

Students who are working professional and want to pursue MA Political Science can also complete it through distance education. There are many universities which provide this course as distance learning. Nalanda University is one such university which provides distance education. Tamilnadu Open University, Osmania University, Dr. B.R Ambedkar University are also some of the colleges offering this course.

Cost of such course is also less; it is around 15,000 to 30,000 per year.

Colleges offering Regular MA Political Science course:

• Hindu College, Delhi
• Presidency college, Chennai
• St Xavier’s College, Kolkata
• Lady Shri Ram college Delhi

Core topics of MA Political Science:

• Ancient Indian Political Thoughts
• Research Methodology
• Contemporary Political Thought
• Western Politics Thought
• Indian Constitution
• Political Thinking like Marx
• Political Sociology
• Politics in India
• Indian Administration
• Post-cold war International Relations

Hence the MA in Political science has wide range of career prospects and also help you learn a extensive knowledge about the public relations, policy making, constitution of India and there impact in lives of Indians. And we have seen the qualification criteria to get into this course and also prestigious colleges offering the course.

Hope you have enough knowledge about the scope after MA politics that could help you excel in your career. Also we discussed about the process of getting admission in BA and MA politics.

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	University at Buffalo
	Aug 14, 2024   2024-2025 Graduate Catalog     2024-2025 Graduate Catalog The Department of Political Science is home to a dynamic faculty, devoted to studying political phenomena at all levels of interest to our graduate students, including local, state, national, and international issues. Our program is oriented to the scientific study of politics of all types. Whether our graduate students seek to study international relations, American politics, public law or foreign political systems, UB’s Department of Political Science is committed to satisfying student interests in each of these areas. Request More Information Required Core (6 credits) Select 2 from: PSC 500SEM - Introduction to Political Inquiry Credits: 3 PSC 508SEM - Basic Statistics for Social Sciences Credits: 3 PSC 531SEM - Intermed Stats for Soc Sc Credits: 3 PSC 533SEM - Formal Political Theory Credits: 3 Field Core (6 credits) PSC 503SEM - Comparative Politics Credits: 3 PSC 504SEM - International Politics Credits: 3 PSC 505SEM - American Politics Credits: 3 PSC 561SEM - Constitutional Law Credits: 3 Electives & Culminating Experience (18 credits) Electives (12-18 credits). Number of elective credits may vary depending on choice made to complete the culminating experience. Be sure to complete enough elective credit to reach 30 minimum total credit hours. Select from: Any Political Science (PSC) 500, 600 or 700-level course up to 9 cr of coursework from outside departments, with DGS approval. Limit of up to 6 credits of PSC 670   TUT: Independent Study.  Culminating Experience: Exam, Project, Portfolio or Thesis (0-6 credits) PSC 700TUT - MA Culminating Experience Credits: 1 - 6 Total Credit Hours: 30 3.0 Degree GPA required Instruction Method In Person   (100 percent of courses offered in person) Full/Part Time Options Credits required, time-to-degree. 2 to 4 Years Application Fee Sed statement. This program is officially registered with the New York State Education Department (SED). Online programs/courses may require students to come to campus on occasion. Time-to-degree and number of credit hours may vary based on full/part time status, degree, track and/or certification option chosen. Time-to-degree is based on calendar year(s). Contact the department for details. Study Abroad Get upto 50% discount on Visa Fees Top Universities & Colleges Abroad Exams Top Courses Read College Reviews Admission Alerts 2024 Education Loan Institute (Counselling, Coaching and More) Ask a Question College Predictor Test Series Practice Questions Course Finder Scholarship All Courses B.Sc (Nursing) PhD (Doctorate of Philosophy) Political Science Colleges, JNU Admission, Syllabus, Salary 2024 Sushil Pandey Senior Content Specialist PhD in Political Science or Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science is a 1-3 years duration doctoral-level course in India. But probably, this duration gets extended for Part-time Political Science scholars up to 5 years. For regular, it is a maximum of 3 years. The basic eligibility to take up a Doctoral in Political Science is holding a PG degree in allied arts discipline since Political Science comes under the aegis of Arts. The candidates should also have a minimum of 55% in PG from a recognized institution in India with a good academic record if needed. The PG course graduate candidates could get admission to these courses by taking up national or institute level entrance exams, counselling or interviews as made valid by the affiliated university. Some institutions prefer to track the candidate’s academic records and other related info after entrance exam qualification. NET is the most common entrance for this doctoral course. CRET, RET, and PET are the common entrance exams conducted by a variety of institutions in order to admit the candidates. Few familiar subjects taught under this PhD course are Research Methodology, State and Politics in South Asia, Governance and Politics in India, Decentralisation and Development in India, and India and International Political Economy. The cost of this doctoral in Political Science spans in the range of INR 25,000 to 5,00,000 depending upon the admitting university and institution. After completing this course, the highest salary offered to the candidate is expected to be around INR 10,00,000 per annum. The minimum starting PhD Political Science salary for candidates is expected to be around INR 4,00,000 per annum. After completing this course, a candidate can work in fields like education, media and journalism, civil services, political firms, along with various government sector offices. Most familiar posts that any PhD Political Science scholars are offered are Political Scientist, Market trend Research Analysts, Professor, Public Relations Specialists, and Survey Researchers. 4.1  4.2  4.3  4.4  6.1  PhD Political Science: Course Highlights Course Name  PhD in Political Science Course Level Doctoral Degree Full-Form Ph.D.- Doctorate of Philosophy  Duration 1 to 3 years for regular PhD scholars. For part-time, up to 5 years depending upon the registered University  Examination type Year-wise course Eligibility Allied Post Graduation with around 60% and academic soundness as mandated by the admitting university  Admission Process Entrance-based (Institute level and national level exams) Course Fee Around 2 Lakhs  Average Salary Around 10 LPA depending upon the experience  Top Recruiting Companies NDTV, Transoplanet, Times of India, Poll Star, Quis Lex, India Today, Oxynello, etc.  Top Recruiting arenas  Education Institutions, Accountancy, Media, Entertainment, Civil Services, Political firms, Government sector, Banking, Public Utilities, etc.  Job Positions Political Scientists, Professor, Survey Researchers, Consultant, Market trend Research Analysts, Public Relations Specialists, Political Research Associate, etc.  PhD in Political Science: What is it About? PhD in Political Science covers all the aspects of the political science area in which the candidate has chosen to do the research. The overall description of the course is given below: This course demands a detailed knowledge of Indian politics and the political whereabouts of other related countries with reference to Governance, Community Empowerment, Economy, Decentralisation and Development in India. These subjects will be distributed yearly depending upon the chosen mode of education like regular or part-time. The candidates will have to decide on which topic they want to do the research. The candidates will be provided more guidance on the chosen topics. The students will have to conduct case studies on Indian Economy and politics and showcase the results of these case studies in their thesis. After completing this course, the candidates could apply for the post-doctorate degree under Political Science. Why Study a PhD in Political Science? Majority of the PG graduates have their choice towards the PhD Political Science because of the following reasons: Research Opportunities: PG candidates tend to have their passion and interest towards the Indian Politics, economy and its development. Thus, a doctoral degree will be giving them ample research opportunities and the expertise in their interested discipline. Scope for funded projects: The doctoral holder in Political Science increases their chances of getting governmental and non-governmental funding to undertake the research. Good Annual CTC: Usually, PG graduates in Political Science receive lesser CTC annually because of the lack of research skills and expertise. But, PhD Political Science holders tend to receive better CTC annually of around 10 Lakhs since they have a variety of research skills and expertise pertaining to the politics and Indian Economy. Scope for Abroad studies: Because of holding one of the most reputed degree in the discipline and exposed to continuous knowledge gathering in many countries’ politics, these doctoral holders have chance to get placed or work in many foreign countries. Scope to work in polling companies: Because of being the experts in Indian and other countries’ politics, these candidates could work in the polling companies that decide the leadership in some countries. PhD Political Science Admission Process As PhD is expected to be a very tough course, many educational institutions prefer entrance exams-based admission over the merit-based admissions. Institutions like IIT, Gandhinagar and Amity University, Noida take personal interviews of the candidates even after entrance exams and scrutiny of academic track records. Some Institutions have their own entrances like Delhi University (DU), New Delhi . While others prefer common entrance exams like RET and PET. NET and JRF qualified candidates will not have to appear for any individual institution level entrance exams. But, they will still have to appear for a personal interview round if required. Entrance Based Admission Process Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, University of Hyderabad [UOH], Hyderabad, and Banasthali Vidyapith University, Jaipur conduct the entrance exam alone and shortlist the candidates based on that score. After the results of entrance examinations are announced, candidates will have to go through the counseling process to finalize their seats. The minimum academic eligibility required to appear in the entrance exam and get admitted to the course is 55% marks at masters level. Universities like Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi conduct a personal interview round even after the entrance exams and counseling process. These institutions never consider academic performances during the whole admission process of a doctorate degree in Political Science. The admission is given solely on the basis of marks scored in the entrance exam. But in certain institutions like IIT Gandhinagar and Amity University, Noida, both previous academic records and the entrance exam scores are given equal importance. These institutions designate the minimum marks in PG/UG to be around 80% per cent or 8.0 CGPA towards the admission of PhD. Political Science degree. Basic steps towards the PhD Political Science 2024 admission are listed below: Create the account and login ID through the official website of the institution/ exam conducting body with the correct contact number and email ID. Download and read the course/entrance brochure to be aware of the important dates. Keep all the scan copies of the mandated documents handy. Apply to the colleges and entrance exams by filling the application forms correctly with genuine details. Your application may get rejected later if you fill false details. Post qualification of the entrance exam and academic background verification, candidates will be called for a personal interview. Those who qualify all the steps will be granted admission to the course. PhD is also aided/funded under a variety of funded schemas/fellowships. Hence, the candidates needing financial assistance should apply for the same. Read the full list of top political science colleges in New Delhi. PhD Political Science Eligibility Majority of the art institutions have plenty of selection criteria/basic eligibility for admitting the candidates into PhD Political Science. These eligibility criteria include: The candidates facing their PhD Political Science admission should possess at least 55% in PG/UG from any of the recognizable institutions in the nation. Central universities and other esteemed arts colleges set the minimum eligible marks in PG/UG to be around 80%. Academic excellence and research expertise are the factors considered by some institutions in India towards the PhD Political Science admission. PhD Political Science Entrance Exams Majority of the institutions consider entrance-based admissions in place of merit-based admission. Common entrance exams in many Indian institutions include: RET 2024: RET could be abbreviated as Research Entrance Test. This entrance exam is being administered by the University of Calcutta, Kolkata towards the admission of research scholars in Political Science. PET 2024: PET could be abbreviated as PhD Entrance Test. This entrance is conducted for the PhD admission by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (BAMU), Aurangabad. UGC NET 2024: UGC NET stands for University Grants Commission (UGC) National Eligibility Test. This entrance exam is conducted by UGC under the Government of India towards the admission process of many courses including PhD in Political Science. Qualification of this exam alone can exempt you from many entrance exams conducted all over the nation. CRET 2024: CRET stands for Combined Research Entrance Test. This entrance exam is conducted every year by  Assam University, Silchar towards the admission of MPhil and PhD programs. DUET 2024: DUET stands for Delhi University Entrance Test. DUET exam conduct is done every year by Delhi University, New Delhi towards its research program related admissions. Entrance Exam Registration Date Exam Date CSIR UGC NET 2nd week of March – 2nd week of April 2024 3rd week of June 2024 UGC NET December 2023 – January 2024 February 2024 – March 2024 September 5, 2023 – October 25, 2023 (Extended) February 11, 2024 March 2024 April 2024 March 2024 April 2024 How do you strategize your Preparation for the PhD Political Science entrance exams? Anyone who wishes to clear the PhD political Science entrance exams should be aware of the following sections like: English Language Reasoning and quantitative parts if needed Major technical parts in social studies and politics in India. Points to recall before the entrance exams: Be ready for the Advanced level of the English Language including the UG level. Practice the numerical well enough to gain expertise in solving the numerical sections wholly. Many complex levels of reasoning skills could be improved after analytical skills thorough. Go through the major political events including both pre and post era of independence in India. Go through the Constitution of India, article by article, with reference to its enforced purpose. Update yourself with all notifications from the taken-up entrance exams. How to get admission in a good PhD Political Science college? The points that might help you are listed one by one below. Download the admission and application info documents of the preferred college/university where the admission is sought. Do strategize your action plans for the entrance exams well before the intended entrance exam. Be aware of all the sections of the opted entrance exams. Do remember that some institutions make the PhD Political Science admission, a very critical one. So, match with your academic soundness. Be keen on the time taken for the numericals since the candidates who will do good in the mathematical sections will have higher chances of success. Practice mock tests to get familiarized with the actual exam pattern. PhD Political Science Syllabus Subjects in this PhD Political Science get distributed across the whole duration as listed below. Course 1- Research Methodology Course 2- State and Politics in South Asia Foundations, Approaches and Epistemologies of Political Science Research Contextualising South Asia Survey Research Methods Protracted Disputes, Human Security and Environmental Issues Statistics and Data Collection Political and Economic Challenges Research Design Foreign Policies of South Asian Countries and Regional Cooperation Initiatives Course 3- Governance and Politics in India Course 4- Decentralisation and Development in India Approaches and Perspectives to Indian Political System Decentralisation and Development in India Party System in India Decentralisation and Community Empowerment Protection for Minorities and Deprived Groups Decentralisation, Governance and the Structure of Local Political Institutions Structural Concerns Participation and Local Development Course 5- India and International Political Economy Political Economy Land Reforms in India International and Multilateral Economic Institutions and Developing Countries Public Policy Analysis PhD in Political Science Books Following reference books cover the 5 major subjects in the PhD Political Science. Name of the book Author Contemporary Hermeneutics—Hermeneutics as Method, Philosophy and Critique Bleicher J Methods Tools and Techniques Gopal and Jain Research Methods in the Social Sciences Nachmias D and Nachmias C Research Methodology in Political Science: Theory & Analysis Verma S ‘Situating India’ in India: Emerging Power Stephen P and Cohen The Camphor Flame: Popular Hinduism and Society in India Fuller C J South Asian Growth Quadrangle: Framework for Multifaceted Cooperation Muchkund and Dubey The New International Politics of South Asia Hewitt and Vernon The Indian Constitution: Cornerstone of a Nation Granville and Austin Social Change and Political Discourse in India: Structures of Power, Movements of Resistance Sathyamurthy T V Democracy and Decentralisation in South Asia and West Africa: Participation, Accountability and Performance J. Manor, Crook, and R.C. Democracy, Decentralisation and Development Henry and Maddick The Politics of India Since Independence Paul R and Brass Democracy and Discontent: India's Growing Crisis of Governability Atul and Kohli PhD Political Science Colleges There are 213 institutions (110 Governmental and 103 Private institutions) that offer political Science specialized doctoral courses in India. Out of these 213 institutions, 47 of the institutions come under the 2021 rankings of NIRF released everywhere by MHRD to recognize top most governmental and private educational institutions. Thus, we tabulate both the top governmental and non-governmental institutions below. College Name  City Average Annual Fees (in INR) New Delhi 1,381 Hyderabad 9,940 Kolkata -   New Delhi 13,870 New Delhi 70,000 Aurangabad 25,000 Silchar 26,545   Chidambaram 25,010 Source: College Websites PhD Political Science College Comparison We make the comparison below pertaining to the topmost colleges providing PhD in Political Science in India. Parameters Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Amity University University of Calcutta Overview It is governmental arts and Science course offering university  It is a private deemed to be university offering plenty of arts courses It is governmental arts and Science course offering university  NIRF Ranking 2021 8 63 11 Location New Delhi Noida Kolkata Eligibility Allied PG degree in arts from any recognizable institution in India  Allied PG degree in arts with at least 55% in it Allied PG degree in arts from any recognizable institution in India Admission Process Entrance-based Admission (NET or JRF) Entrance-based Admission (RET or NET or JRF) Entrance-based Admission (Institute level entrance) Average Fees in INR 1381 1 Lakh - Average Package Offered in INR 12 Lakhs  4.5 lakhs 7.7 lakhs Top Recruiting companies  Amazon, IBM, Info gain, etc.  American Express, BIS Research, Broadcom, etc.  ITC, Amazon, Line, A & D, etc. Source: College Websites and NIRF database PhD in Political Science Course Comparison We depict a comparison between PhD Political Science and PhD Engineering below. Parameters  PhD Political Science  PhD Public Administration  Overview This doctoral degree deals with the theories and practices adopted in the arena of politics in India. The schemes and history of politics are also well discussed.  It deals with the implementation of various government policies. It mainly focuses on the techniques used by the government for proper administration.  Examination Type  Year-wise regular and part-time Course. Year wise regular and part-time Course. Average Annual Fees INR 2,00,000 INR 2,00,000 Duration 1 to 3 years for regular PhD scholars. For part-time, up to 5 years depending upon the registered University 1 to 3 years for regular PhD scholars. For part-time, up to 8 years depending upon the registered University Eligibility Relevant PG Post Graduation in Arts.  Relevant PG Post Graduation in Arts.  Admission Process Entrance-based (Institute/ national level entrance) Entrance-based (Institute/ national level entrance) Job Roles  Political Scientists, Professor, Survey Researchers, Consultant, Market trend Research Analysts, Public Relations Specialists, Political Research Associate, etc.  Administrative Officers, Corporate Managers, Labour Managers, Public Relations Specialists.  Average Salary  INR 8 to 10 LPA depending upon the expertise. INR 8 LPA depending upon the expertise. Source: College Websites and Payscale PhD Political Science Job Prospects and Career options Research scholars, after successful completion of PhD Political Science, get placed majorly in the industry wherein the knowledge of Indian Economy, Politics, developments are perquisites. Most common roles that PhD Political Science holders can have are Market trend Research Analysts; Political Scientist; Public Relations Specialists; Survey Researchers; and Research Analysts. The average earned by these doctorate holders ranges from INR 5 LPA to 15 LPA. Political and research/analyzing associated roles are offered from firms like NDTV, Transoplanet, Times of India, Pollstar |, QuisLex, India Today, Oxynello, etc. Some favourite job roles for PhD Political Science and its respective salary are given below. Job Profile  Job Description  Average Salary in INR Political Scientist Responsible for making the political reports with reference to the arguments and developments seen in Political  6 LPA Market trend Research Analysts He is responsible to investigate a variety of data on the basis of three basic questionnaires like What, Who, and How.  4 LPA Professor Responsible for educating and training the students in the discipline of Political Science dealing with politics in India. 10 LPA Public Relations Specialists He is responsible to create and promote the awareness of the brand, company for which he/she is assigned to. 6 LPA Survey Researchers They are primarily assigned for creating the surveys based on the data gathered/available to analyse it. 5 LPA Research Analysts He is capable of analysing the designated data in order to devise correct/factual information out of it. 4 LPA Source: PayScale PhD Political Science Scope Some of the futuristic scope that PhD Political Science could be benefited are as follows: Further Research: PhD Political Science candidates can take part in further research both in India and abroad. Political analysts and leadership: Since the political natures and economies of Indian and other countries are dealt under this discipline, the doctorate holders gain immense knowledge and skills related to leadership that might trigger and aid them in becoming a political analyst, and sometimes even political leaders in future. Scope for Civil Services in India: Since plenty of historical events pertaining to Indian Economy and Politics are gained through PhD Political Science, the candidates could fancy their chances to crack the Civil Services exams like UPSC because of few similarities in the syllabus of it. Economic Strategist: Any country strives to improve its economy in some way or other. Thus, it creates the demand for PhD Political Science holders all over the globe. Market requirements: PhDs in Political Science become expertise in the majority of the top economies through their research experience, thus it becomes usual for them to get placed in the market trend investigating firms. PhD Political Science FAQs Ques. What does a PhD Political Science stand for? Ans. PhD Political Science stands for Doctorate of Philosophy in Political Science coming under the aegis of arts. Ques. Which is the topmost institution offering PhD Political Science? Ans. Presidency College located at Chennai is the topmost ranked (NIRF 2021) institution offering PhD Political Science. Ques. What are the common entrance exams for PhD Political Science admission? Ans. CRET, RET, and PET are the common entrance exams for PhD Political Science admission. Ques. Which sectors are paying well for PhD Political Science? Ans. Markets trending analyzing, teaching, and polling sectors are the sector that is paying the PhD in Political Science with good compensation. Ques. What is the significance of taking PhD Political Science courses in India? Ans. The significance of pursuing a PhD Political Science degree in India is that it makes one expert and leader in the arena of Politics and Economy. Ques. What are the options after does PhD Political Science? Ans. PhD Political Science holders could get placed globally, get placed in Indian Civil Services, market trend analyzer in markets, and Professor in the educational institution. Ques. Which eligibility test exempt the candidates from appearing in many entrance exams? Ans. National Eligibility Test (NET) is the national level entrance exams that exempt the candidates from appearing in majority of the entrance exams conducted by the India institutions. Ques. List some top governmental institutions offering PhD Political Science? Ans. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), and University of Hyderabad [UOH] are the top governmental institutions offering PhD Political Science. Ques. List some top private institutions offering PhD Political Science? Ans. Amity University and Banasthali Vidyapith University are the topmost private institutions offering PhD Political Science Most Popular Tags 2 Reviews found University of Hyderabad : A natural campus full with academic rigour Loan/ scholarship provisions. There is no specific rate of hike. But in the last three years, they have increased the fees by 500. So it's almost 5000 per semester. In total, it's 25,000 per semester including food charges. One scholarship for master's students: 1000 per month. For PhD if you JRF then it's done or you will get 8,000 per month. There are good placements. Campus Life The name of the big annual fest is Sukoon. But there are many other cultural fests that happen during the whole year. Liberation is very rich. The online database is also so big. Classrooms have projectors and speakers and screens. Sports infra is so well maintained and huge. Many social groups and clubs are here including reading circles. Student's Review On Ravenshaw University - [RU], Cuttack This is one of the best University of Odisha.Everybody wants a good university for his/her pH.d course. So I thought that this university will definitely give me a perfect platform. Feeling so proud to be a part of this university. Placement Experience In pH.d course,no placement is there.one must complete the required qualifications to get into the job.Campus selection is there in Ravenshaw.But not for those with pH.d in arts subjects.Many notable alumni are there Ph.D. (English) Ph.d. (economics), ph.d. (history), m.phil. (english), ph.d. (hindi), ph.d. (political science) colleges in india. IIT Madras - Indian Institute of Technology - [IITM] National Law University - [NLU] Amity University Jamia Millia Islamia University-[JMI] Banaras Hindu University - [BHU] Acharya Nagarjuna University - [ANU] Jawaharlal Nehru University - [JNU] Subscribe to our news letter. 321 IMAGES PhD after MA Political Science {2021-2022} जानें क्यों है ख़ास पीएचडी, एमए पॉलिटिकल साइंस के बाद Ph.D. in Political Science: Overview, Course, Eligibility Criteria GUARANTEED FULLY FUNDED SCHOLARSHIP FOR MA/PHD IN POLITICAL SCIENCE IN US AND CANADA MA Political Science Part 1 EM Your Guide To A PhD In Political Science: Everything You Need To Know MA Political Science: Course Details, Admission, Eligibility, Fees COMMENTS PhD in Political Science PhD in Political Science. ... As a result, MIT Political Science graduates are sought after for top teaching and research positions in the U.S. and abroad. Read where program alumni are working around the world. ... Cambridge, MA 02142 [email protected] +1 617 253 5262 Accessibility. Facebook; Twitter; Ph.D. Admissions All questions regarding graduate admissions should be directed to [email protected]. The principal goal of the Stanford Ph.D. program in political science is the training of scholars. Most students who receive doctorates in the program do research and teach at colleges or universities. We offer courses and research opportunities in ... PhD in Political Science : Graduate School : UMass Amherst PhD in Political Science. Apply now. UMass Amherst offers PhD and accelerated MA degrees in six fields of political inquiry: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, and public law. In addition, while each field is its own thriving research community, your studies can involve multiple ... Politics The graduate program in the Department of Politics leads to the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in politics. The program is designed to offer broad professional training in political science and to enable students to specialize in any of the main subfields of political science (American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory), as well as public law ... Doctoral Program The principal goal of the Stanford Ph.D. program in political science is the training of scholars. Most students who receive doctorates in the program do research and teach at colleges or universities. We offer courses and research opportunities in a wide variety of fields in the discipline, including American Politics, Comparative Politics ... Government The Department of Government at Harvard is a world leader in the study of political science, and the department's faculty covers a wide range of fields and methodologies. ... For the coordinated JD/PhD in law and political science, ... Cambridge, MA 02138-3654. Contact. Tel: 617-495-5315. Fax: 617-495-2928. About the MA/PhD Program Master of Arts Degree in Political Science. Generally, we only admit to the M.A. program those students who are interested in pursuing both the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. Students who apply to our program with a Bachelor's degree or an M.A. in another field will complete the M.A. in political science as part of the curriculum of the M.A./Ph.D program. PhD in Political Science » Academics PhD in Political Science. The Graduate Program in Political Science offers an intellectually stimulating and collegial environment for the training of PhD candidates. The program is highly selective, enrolling an average of six students a year, all of whom receive full funding. ... Entering students must have a BA or MA. The program trains ... Political Science, PhD < Northeastern University Academic Catalog The Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science is grounded in the core fields of the discipline—American government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. Students identify a primary and secondary field as areas of emphasis. The curriculum introduces students to the core fields and also seeks to develop ... PhD in Political Science The PhD program in political science is intended for students who wish to acquire careers in teaching and research or work in the government or the private sector. The focus includes the four fields of American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory. ... 475 and 476, and earn an MA). 2. Forty-eight ... Graduate Program The Master's Degree in Statistics is a tailored master's degree program in statistics within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics for graduate students in Political Science. Note that while the program is designed to serve political science graduate students, it is run by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. MA in Statistics. Graduate The Johns Hopkins University Department of Political Science is known for its strength in theory and in innovative and trans-disciplinary approaches to uncovering new knowledge and the program of doctoral study draws on these strengths to provide rigorous training. Our program is designed for highly qualified, intellectually curious, and creative graduate students who can benefit... Politics Degrees MA The MA in Politics is a 30-credit program providing students with advanced training in political analysis and political science research methods. University Home Our Colleges ... Students in the Politics MA program can apply to enter the PhD program after completing 18 credits at The New School for Social Research. They should apply by the time ... Graduate Admission Application Period. For the PhD and MA (Political Science) programs: Deadlines June 15 (first semester entry) and December 15 (second semester entry). For the MIA program: Deadline June 15 (first semester entry only) IMPORTANT: Please submit complete scanned documents to [email protected]. Hard copies of the original documents shall be ... MA in Political Science MA in Political Science MA students enroll to prepare for further graduate study (PhD, law, etc.) or to "craft their own adventure" beyond the BA basics. MA students may also take courses alongside doctoral students and are exposed to the same material, with courses as varied as Public Opinion and Psychology, Social Movements, International ... Admissions : Department of Political Science : UMass Amherst The deadline for fall PhD and MA applications is December 15th. There is no spring admissions process for the PhD or MA programs. If you are interested in the Accelerated MA, you must apply by November 1st or April 1st. ... Department of Political Science Thompson Hall 200 Hicks Way UMass Amherst Amherst, MA 01003 Graduate Admissions Committee ... Career Options after MA in Political Science Thus, a career as public relations specialist is among the most popular jobs after MA in political science. You could choose any of the above jobs after your MA in political science but remember to evaluate your interest and goal. You can even upskill to enhance your chances of getting a job. Renowned online platforms such as Emeritus offer ... Understanding the Importance of Jobs After MA in Political Science Pursuing a PhD after an MA in Political Science is a logical progression for aspiring academics. An MA equips students with advanced research skills and a deeper understanding of political theories and methodologies. A PhD further refines these skills, allowing graduates to contribute to the academic community with their research and theories. ... PhD in Political Science: Eligibility, Universitites Team Leverage Edu. Updated on. Apr 28, 2023. 7 minute read. Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science, or Ph.D. in Political Science, is a doctoral-level course. This program lasts between one and three years, although, for part-time Political Science students, it can last up to five years. A wide range of topics, including human rights ... Political Science MA Honours BA in political science with a minimum B+ (77-79%) GPA in the last two years of study. If you hold a BA in another social science field and are accepted into the program, you will be required to complete additional qualifying courses in the first two semesters of the program. MA Political Science: Jobs, Scope, Careers, Government Jobs After this course, a candidate can seek employment in both the public and private sectors. The roles which come along with an MA degree in Political Science are generally associated with administration, reporting, research etc. Some of the primary job profiles offered to MA Political Science degree holders are: Career After MA in Political Science Route to MA Political Science After 12th. Now let's know the qualification and eligibility for pursuing Political Science course after his/her 12thstandard. Student should complete his 12thgrade in any of the core subjects with 50% of marks. Student should graduate with BA (Bachelor of Arts ) in Political Science or any related subject. Program: Political Science MA 2024-2025 Graduate Catalog Political Science MA. Print this Page. The Department of Political Science is home to a dynamic faculty, devoted to studying political phenomena at all levels of interest to our graduate students, including local, state, national, and international issues. Our program is oriented to the scientific study of politics of ... PhD Political Science Syllabus, Colleges, Admission, Jobs, Salary 2024 The cost of this doctoral in Political Science spans in the range of INR 25,000 to 5,00,000 depending upon the admitting university and institution. After completing this course, the highest salary offered to the candidate is expected to be around INR 10,00,000 per annum. The minimum starting PhD Political Science salary for candidates is ... Meet woman, a research scholar who cracked UPSC exam without coaching She then studied at St. Thomas College to pursue her MA in Political Science. She also finished her PhD in International Relations after securing the Junior Research Fellowship in the UGC NET exam. Jaisal Kaur Updated : Aug 13, 2024, 06:52 PM IST Numerous UPSC aspirants crave to become IAS one day ... assignment essay homework paper phd report review speech thesis