Through rigorous research and applied curriculum, the PhD in Political Science provides an in-depth understanding of politics and government and the underpinnings of national and global civil society.
In the contemporary world, understanding politics and policy is one key to successful, peaceful, and prosperous national and global civil society. The PhD program in Political Science equips you with the politics and international studies expertise to make an impact not only in American political life and thought but also in political arenas around the globe. You will develop the analytical ability and practical experience for both academic and research-based positions. Our highly engaged faculty-scholars conduct research on a range of contemporary issues, such as voting rights, non-state war, the rise of China, conserving liberty, environmental justice, state capacity, data visualization, citizen participation, globalization, corruption, the administrative state, and immigration. Our program prepares scholars for academic careers, teaching, and research as well as government and public service.
Program Highlights
- PhD students typically complete the 72-unit program in five years.
- All students choose two areas of concentrated study from American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Politics, International Political Economy, Public Policy, and Research Methodology.
- Our graduates work in government and the private sector, at NGOs and international institutions; they are also found teaching at prestigious universities across the world.
- Pursue your PhD in Political Science in conjunction with another degree, such as an MA in Psychology. You earn a diploma for each degree and “double count” some units from one program to the other to decrease your required total units.
