PhD in International Relations

Graduation Group

Engage in problem-driven research with a truly global focus

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in International Relations trains scholars to conduct cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research across key areas of international affairs and political science. A combination of in-depth hands-on fieldwork and comprehensive theoretical study enables Fletcher's PhD students to uncover the meaningful questions that ultimately shape both their future research and their careers.

Developing tomorrow's thought leaders

With approximately 50 students engaged in coursework or research, the PhD program is an integral and vibrant component of the Fletcher community. Working alongside our world-renowned faculty, Fletcher doctoral candidates acquire the theoretical and practical skills needed to produce research that will help shape future discourse on international relations. After completing their degrees, graduates go on to successful high-level careers in academia and research, and in the non-profit, government, and private sectors.

Fletcher’s PhD candidates come from around the world, bringing perspectives and experiences that inform their research and goals.  Get to know their stories and learn how they plan to shape the future of international affairs.

After completing their degrees, doctoral graduates go on to successful high-level careers in academia and research, and in the non-profit, government, and private sectors.  They make their impact on an array of fields, often maintaining a presence in both academia and practice.

Fletcher PhD students move through three program phases on their way from admission to graduation. They start with classes, arranged within a structured curriculum that still allows significant flexibility in course selection. When their class requirements are complete, students take comprehensive exams, and then move on as PhD candidates to research and write a dissertation.

Shaping Your PhD Through Coursework

In shaping their curriculum, students start with a primary field of study, through which they develop a depth of expertise unique to their interests. The primary fields of study that support PhD studies are:

  • Comparative and Regional Studies
  • Gender and Intersectional Analysis
  • Human Security and Humanitarian Affairs
  • International Business
  • International Development and Environmental Policy
  • International Security

Students build on their primary field of expertise by developing a breadth of foundational knowledge in a second field of study, which can be any of the  fields offered at Fletcher  or might be a self-designed field. Regardless of their choice of field, all students also pursue foundational courses in international relations theory and in research methodology. The two fields of study later become the basis for comprehensive exams.

Students seeking additional opportunities to individualize their studies may cross-register for up to a quarter of their classes at another graduate school at Tufts University or at Harvard University.

Students who have received their master's degree at another institution generally pursue twelve courses at Fletcher, with limited opportunities to have prior coursework applied to their degree. Those who possess a MALD generally pursue an additional four courses, for a total of twenty courses for the two degrees.

Demonstrating Knowledge Through Comprehensive Examinations

Students demonstrate mastery of their subjects through comprehensive examinations, composed of a written exam in each of the two fields of study and an oral exam that integrates the material from the two areas. Students generally sit for their comprehensive examinations within a year of completing their coursework.

Developing and Writing a Dissertation

Once they have passed their comprehensive exams and achieved PhD candidacy, students move on to propose, research, and write a dissertation. The completed dissertation should bear evidence of independent research and constitute a substantial contribution on the subject. When the dissertation is complete, the PhD candidate participates in a public oral defense of the dissertation.

Additional Graduation Requirements

In addition to the steps detailed above, students in the PhD program:

  • Demonstrate proficiency in a second language.
  • Submit a master's thesis for evaluation by a Fletcher faculty member. This could be a master's thesis written prior to enrollment at Fletcher, or a thesis written during the first year at Fletcher.

Length of Time Required to Receive the PhD

Once they have completed their coursework, PhD students generally take about five years to complete the degree, but the exact time varies according to the scope of each candidate's research, the amount of time devoted to PhD studies, and the time needed to research and write the dissertation.

Professional Development Opportunities

Fletcher's Office of Career Services  works with PhD students interested in a career in international relations practice. Our graduates have pursued careers at a wide range of institutions and organizations. For those focused on the academic job market, Fletcher offers support at a variety of levels. Fletcher faculty and the Office of Career Services support job candidates with career advice, professional development, and general assistance.

To develop teaching skills, students can participate in Tufts University’s three-week summer intensive  Graduate Institute for Teaching  and then to co-teach a class with a faculty mentor. Many students have also developed and taught classes in the University’s  Osher Institute  or  Experimental College .

Offered by the School of International Service   , the International Relations (PhD) program enables students to produce knowledge for careers in university teaching and research, government, and non-governmental organizations both in the United States and internationally. The curriculum provides training in international relations that is both multi-disciplinary and policy-relevant. The core courses in international relations, comparative social theory, comparative and regional studies, and methodology provide a foundation that allows students considerable flexibility to pursue additional coursework, research, and writing in international affairs. Major emphasis is placed on research and all students are required to successfully defend an original dissertation of their own design that makes a contribution to knowledge in their chosen area. In addition to completing the dissertation, students are encouraged to present conference papers, engage in collaborative work with faculty members, and submit articles to refereed journals.

Admission to the Program

Applicants for the PhD degree program must hold an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree, or its equivalent, in a field related to international relations. Applicants must have a prior cumulative grade point average that is substantially above B (3.00 or higher on a 4.00 scale) for coursework relevant to international relations.

The program is designed for study on a full-time basis. Applicants for the PhD degree are considered and admitted only for the fall semester each year. The school does not permit students to begin their doctoral work in the spring. Deferral of matriculation in the PhD program is not permitted. In order to be considered for fall admission, applications and all supporting materials must reach the SIS Graduate Admissions Office no later than December 15.

All applicants are required to submit results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Non-native English speakers are required to submit results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) unless they hold a degree from a US-accredited institution before enrollment at SIS. The minimum TOEFL score for full admissions consideration is 100 on the Internet-based test (iBT) or 600 on the paper-based test (PBT). The minimum IELTS score is 7.0. Applicants should plan to take the appropriate test well in advance of the December 15 deadline.

All applicants must submit at least three letters of reference which evaluate their suitability for undertaking doctoral study in international relations. At least one of those letters must assess their academic performance. Cultural factors are considered in making admissions decisions and in evaluating transcripts and examination results.

Doctoral students may transfer up to 6 credit hours of previous graduate coursework earned at accredited institutions with a minimum grade of B in each course. Such credits must have been earned within five years of admission and must be relevant to a student’s program of study. Requests for transfer of graduate credit are considered during the student’s first term.

Degree Requirements

  • 39 credit hours of approved graduate work
  • Minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA in all graduate work is required to remain in good academic standing and to earn the degree
  • Proficiency in a modern foreign language: Research competence in English and another modern foreign language relevant to the student’s career objectives must be certified
  • The first or qualifying examination is normally taken at the end of the first year. The qualifying exam requires the demonstration of competency in theoretical, epistemological, and methodological literature and issues in international relations, comparative social theory, and comparative and regional studies. These areas are addressed in the core seminars that students normally complete during their first year of residence, although the scope of the examination is not limited to topics covered in the seminars
  • A second examination, the Field Comprehensive Examination, is in a student’s chosen field of specialization. This Comprehensive Field Examination is a scholarly paper in which students must demonstrate knowledge of the scholarly literature related to a research question approved by their Field Concentration Chair. With the permission of the SIS Director of Doctoral Studies and the advice of at least three qualified scholars, the student may also construct a special field
  • The SIS Director of Doctoral Studies chairs the prospectus defense. The examiners also include the student’s dissertation committee, which is comprised of a minimum of three members, one of whom serves as chair and as the primary supervisor of the dissertation research. It is the responsibility of the student to secure the agreement of a full-time tenured member of the School of International Service faculty to serve as the chair of his or her dissertation committee. At least two members of the dissertation committee must be full-time, tenure-line members of the American University faculty. The members of the committee must be approved by the SIS Director of Doctoral Studies and the American University Doctoral Council
  • Students are normally expected to complete their prospectus defense no later than the end of the sixth semester after entering the program. For details on scheduling comprehensive examinations and examination procedures, consult the director of the PhD program or the SIS Graduate Office
  • Advancement to candidacy: To be advanced to candidacy, students must remedy any deficiencies specified at the time of admission, complete all graduate work, be certified as proficient in a modern foreign language in addition to English, have passed their written and oral examinations, have submitted certification of completion of Responsible Conduct of Research training, and have successfully defended their dissertation prospectus
  • Students must present a completed draft of their dissertation for defense. They are responsible for ensuring that the final draft of their dissertation meet university style requirements. Dissertations must be approved by the dean of the School of International Service
  • Statute of limitations: American University’s academic regulations provide that all graduate work for the doctorate must be completed in no more than nine years after the date of first enrollment as doctoral student. Prior to the expiration of that time limit, a student may petition for an extension of candidacy. Under compelling circumstances, students may apply for one-year extensions beyond the expected time to degree, with a maximum of three extensions. Students must petition the SIS Director of Doctoral Studies for each one-year extension; each extension must also be approved by the SIS Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Graduate Education and the Vice Provost for Graduate Studies and Research

Course Requirements

Core theory (12 credit hours).

  • SIS-801 Schools of Thought in International Relations (3)
  • SIS-802 Comparative and Regional Studies (3)
  • SIS-803 Advanced Seminar in International Relations (3)
  • SIS-804 Social Theory in Comparative and International Perspective (3)

Social Science Research Methodology (15 credit hours)

  • SIS-806 Quantitative Methods in International Relations (3)
  • SIS-807 Qualitative Methods in International Relations (3)
  • SIS-808 Politics and Policy Making in International Relations (3)
  • SIS-810 Research Design (3)
  • SIS-811 Dissertation Development Workshop (3)

Concentration (9 credit hours)

Note: Specific course requirements as well as additional preparation for the field examinations are determined by each field.

  • Development Studies
  • Global Environment
  • Global Governance and International Organizations
  • Peace and Conflict Resolution
  • Security and Political Violence
  • Technology, Security, and Social Change
  • United States Foreign Policy

Electives (3 credit hours)

  • 3 credit hours from coursework relevant to a student’s program of study and approved by the SIS Director of Doctoral Studies

Research and Writing Requirement

  • A student is required to maintain full-time status until they successfully defend a dissertation. Upon advance to candidacy, a student maintains enrollment status by registering for SIS-899 Doctoral Dissertation (9)   . For each semester, up to 9 credit hours of SIS-899    is priced at the equivalent of one graduate credit hour

Ph.D. in International Affairs, Science, and Technology

phd international relations usa

The Nunn School International Affair's Ph.D. program provides an unparalleled opportunity for students with backgrounds in either politics or science and technology to deepen their understanding of international affairs through the advanced study of sub-fields such as international relations theory, international security, international political economy, comparative politics, and methods for social scientific research.

The Ph.D. program is a four to six-year program designed to adapt to the interests and needs of students who intend to enter professional careers requiring or who plan to work in academia. The program emphasizes both traditional theoretical knowledge of international relations and strategic planning and analysis. The program includes 21 semester hours of required core seminars in:

  • Empirical research methods
  • International Relations theory
  • International Security policy
  • Comparative Politics
  • International Political Economy
  • Ph.D. Proseminar
  • Science, Technology, and International Affairs I and II

Students are also required to complete the Institute-mandated 9-credit hour minor concentration outside of the field.

As part of the coursework, students are required to demonstrate foreign language familiarity through two years of coursework during undergraduate or graduate studies and passing a translation exercise. Students can either opt to have a third year of language or take a year of advanced methods. Students are required to pass two qualification exams and successfully defend a paper related to a science and technology topic before they can advance to candidacy.

Ph.D. students may also complete elective coursework through cross-registration at any of the nineteen public and private colleges, universities, and other higher learning institutions that comprise the Atlanta Regional Consortium for Higher Education (ARCHE). This opportunity provides considerable flexibility in tailoring individual studies to achieve specific career objectives.

Program Benefits

phd international relations usa

Flexibility

The doctoral program prepares students not only for academia but also in the nonprofit, government, and private sectors. Our alums now work at the National Nuclear Security Administration, Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, and as professors.

phd international relations usa

Interdisciplinary

The program's interdisciplinary nature allows students to take courses in science, technology, engineering, business, and design to meet post-graduation plans. Related courses taken in these disciplines can be counted towards the required 9-credit hour minor.

Admissions Questions?

Please visit our frequently asked questions page or contact us below.

Email:  [email protected] | Phone: 404-894-8352

Habersham Building 781 Marietta St. NW Atlanta, GA 30332-0610

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Meet Our Alumni

phd international relations usa

The Jackson School Ph.D. program advances problem-focused graduate education that combines a new cross-disciplinary approach with intensive area studies in the face of contemporary global and local challenges.

Regions & Themes

The Jackson School of International Studies (JSIS) Ph.D. in International Studies provides a unique opportunity for candidates who seek a highly individualized graduate program grounded in applied area and global studies. The program reflects the Jackson’s School’s scholarly commitment to the centrality of history, culture, and politics in advancing the understanding of and engagement in world issues.

The program is designed to provide students with the flexibility to apply, and build on, their existing field connections, area knowledge, research questions, and language skills. Working with faculty with expertise in international and area studies, students design their studies in ways that will best support their career plans. Toward this end, students will have the opportunity to select a broad set of possible final products, from dissertation to policy papers, that best allows them to engage and share their research questions and conclusions.

Is the JSIS Ph.D. Program right for you?

Ph.d. program news.

phd international relations usa

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Jackson School of International Studies

Doctoral candidate Yasir Zaiden pens article on recent US sanctions in Sudan // Foreign Policy

Saadia pekkanen co-edits special issue on space diplomacy in the hague journal of diplomacy.

Sarah Lohmann

Sarah Lohmann quoted in article on President of Finland’s trip to Washington // Seattle Times

Doctoral alum pens article analyzing turkey’s military response after the earthquake // foreign policy, saadia pekkanen on vigilance for military activities in space // newsweek, jsis ph.d. program, jesús hidalgo.

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Become a thought leader in international affairs.

Pursuing a PhD is a unique experience. Focused scholarship combines with the need to meet exacting requirements, all in the interest of satisfying a desire to make the pursuit of knowledge one’s life’s work . At SIS, our interdisciplinary faculty research and write on a variety of geographic and intellectual areas; many have extensive experience in the public and private sectors, both in the United States and internationally. They work to ensure that PhD students at SIS attain training in international relations that is both multi-disciplinary and policy-relevant .

Our program was created to prepare outstanding scholars for careers in research and teaching at academic institutions, government, and non-governmental organizations throughout the world. If you're prepared for a focused, challenging, and meaningful experience, we invite you to explore our PhD program. 

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Degree Progression

To pursue a PhD at SIS, you will identify a field concentration, take comprehensive examinations, and write and defend both a dissertation prospectus and a dissertation. You'll emerge ready to take your place among international relations scholars and contribute to the body of knowledge in this exciting field.

During their first year, students take six required courses . In the fall semester students take SIS-801 Schools of Thought in International Relations , SIS-802 Comparative and Regional Studies , and SIS-806 Quantitative Methods in International Relations . During the spring semester, students take SIS-803 Advanced Seminar in International Relations , SIS-804 Social Theory in Comparative and International Perspective , and SIS-807 Qualitative Methods in International Relations . 

Students will also join more advanced PhD students in regularly scheduled research colloquia as well as events to help mentor students in grant writing, conference presentations, publications, and professional skills for the job market.

At the end of their first year, students take a written and oral qualifying comprehensive exam that requires them to demonstrate competency in theoretical, epistemological and methodological literature and issues in international relations, comparative politics, and social theory.

Field Concentrations

During their second year, students will identify a field of concentration from among those offered by SIS, or in consultation with the Director of Doctoral Studies, construct one of their own. Each concentration comprises 3 required courses plus a comprehensive exam. The exam is based upon a reading list for each concentration and has both a written and oral component.

Required Coursework

Also required during the second year, normally during the fall semester, is SIS-808 Politics and Policy Making in International Relations  and SIS-810 Research Design . Students will also select two electives to develop an additional area of concentration, further explore a potential dissertation topic, or for additional methods training. These electives can be chosen from graduate courses at the School of International Service, as well as graduate courses in other programs at American University or at other universities in the National Capital area that are members of the Washington Metropolitan Consortium of Universities.

In the fall semester of the third year, students take SIS-811 Dissertation Development Workshop , plus an additional six credits of either course work or independent study. In consultation with the Director of Doctoral Studies, students will determine the program of study that is best suited to help them complete and successfully defend their dissertation prospectus by the end of their third year.

Dissertation Prospectus

Before advancing to candidacy, all PhD students must write and defend a dissertation prospectus that reviews the relevant literature, identifies relevant theoretical, epistemological, and methodological issues, and provides a detailed research design that includes a timetable for the completion of the work. Students are expected to successfully defend their prospectus no later than the end of their third year. For information about the process leading up to and including the prospectus defense, please see the SIS PhD Handbook .

Doctoral Dissertation

Each student must complete and successfully defend a dissertation (or three scholarly papers) that contributes to knowledge that is relevant to international affairs. This dissertation is defended orally before the student's dissertation committee and members of the academic community. The required processes for assembling a dissertation committee, and writing and defending the dissertation are laid out in specific detail in the  SIS PhD Handbook .

For full detailed information on courses and requirements, explore the SIS PhD handbook .

During their second year, students will identify a field of concentration from among those offered by SIS, or in consultation with the Director of Doctoral Studies, construct one of their own. Students will take three courses (9 credits) as required by their chosen concentration and will take the field’s comprehensive exam at the end of their second year.

Development Studies

Required courses.

  • SIS-637 International Development
  • SIS-636 Micropolitics of Development
  • An additional course selected in consultation with the concentration chair

Meet the core faculty for Development Studies

Global Governance & International Organizations

  • SIS-619 Foundations of Global Governance
  • SIS-619 International Law and the Global Order
  • SIS-619 Complex Interventions and Peacekeeping
  • SIS-619 Regional Organizations: Security and Governance
  • SIS-620 Water Governance
  • SIS-666 International Financial Relations*
  • SIS-752 Global Economic Governance*
  • SIS-753 Global Financial Governance*

*SIS-616 International Economics is a prerequisite

Meet the core faculty for Global Governance & International Organizations

Security & Political Violence

  • SIS-610 Theories of Violence and Conflict
  • SIS-619 Security and Insecurity: Conflict and Politics in a Global Era

Meet the core faculty for Security & Political Violence

US Foreign Policy

  • SIS-689 Foreign Policy: Theories of Decision Making
  • SIS-653 President, Congress and Foreign Policy
  • SIS-653 Continuity and Change in USFP

Meet the core faculty for US Foreign Policy

Global Environment

  • SIS-660 Environment and Politics
  • Political Ecology of Food & Agriculture
  • Water Governance
  • Global Climate Change
  • Urban Political Ecology
  • SIS-620 The Future of Environmentalism
  • SIS-620 Transitioning to Post-Carbon Energy
  • SIS-619 Environmental Peacebuilding

Meet the core faculty for Global Environment

Peace & Conflict Resolution

  • SIS-619 IPCR Seminar I
  • SIS-619 IPCR Seminar II

Meet the core faculty for Peace & Conflict Resolution

Technology, Security, and Social Change

Select three of the below listed courses:

  • SIS-628 Advanced Topics in International Communication: Big Data and Text Mining in International Affairs Research
  • SIS-642 Intercultural Relations
  • SIS-644 Communication and Social and Economic Development
  • SIS-645 International Communication and Cultural Policy
  • 3 credit independent study with approval of the concentration chair

Meet the core faculty for Technology, Culture & Social Change

Application At a Glance

View a detailed admission and degree requirements listing for your degree of interest.

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phd international relations usa

Georgetown University.

College of Arts & Sciences

Georgetown University.

International Relations

The department’s graduate program in international relations prepares students for successful careers by introducing them to cutting-edge research across the field and training them to be productive and professional scholars. Our faculty members have produced award-winning research in the most selective journals—including the American Political Science Review, Foreign Affairs, International Organization, International Security, International Studies Quarterly, Journal of Conflict Resolution, and World Politics—as well as prestigious university presses—including Cambridge University Press, Cornell University Press, and Princeton University Press.

The best measure of our success as a graduate program is the track record of our students. In recent years, our students have taken tenure-track faculty positions at top universities, including Cornell University, the University of Texas, and McGill University. They have also been awarded highly competitive pre- and post-doctoral fellowships at Harvard University and Princeton University. We encourage our doctoral students to focus on publishing their research, and their work continues to appear in premier journals, including the American Political Science Review, International Organization, International Security, and International Studies Quarterly.

All of the department’s faculty members are well-versed in international relations theory, and the department has also developed a number of more specific core strengths:

-International Security (Andrew Bennett, Daniel Byman, Victor Cha, David Edelstein, Desha Girod, Lise Morje Howard, Matthew Kroenig, Charles Kupchan, Keir Lieber, Robert Lieber, Daniel Nexon, and Elizabeth Stanley): Together, this deep and diverse faculty exposes students to the most pertinent questions in the study of international security today. The specific research interests of the faculty include military intervention and occupation, terrorism, nuclear weapons, U.S. foreign policy, civil-military relations, post-conflict reconstruction, international order, the role of religion in international affairs, and the use of force in the modern world.

-International Political Economy (Marc Busch, Raj Desai, Kathleen McNamara, Abraham Newman, Nita Rudra and George Shambaugh): The evolving structure and behavior of the international political economy is a central concern of the department’s faculty. Approaching these questions from a variety of methodological and theoretical perspectives, our international political economy group investigates issues including the governance of trade and finance, the politics of currency, and international aid and development.

-International Law and Organizations (Anthony Arend, Marc Busch, Kathleen McNamara, Abraham Newman, and Erik Voeten): The department’s faculty produces important scholarship on the politics of international organizations as well as the evolution of international law. As with our other core strengths, the faculty approaches these questions from a variety of perspectives, producing well-trained and creative graduate students. Our faculty’s research in this area includes questions about the role of the United Nations Security Council, the development of the European Union, international financial institutions, the international law of the use of force, and emerging international environmental law.

-Methodology (Andrew Bennett, Marc Busch, and Erik Voeten: Our faculty is equipped to train graduate students in the full range of methodologies, including qualitative, quantitative, and formal approaches. Beyond the methodological strength of our international relations faculty, our students benefit from the methodological expertise of the department’s faculty in other subfields, including Michael Bailey and Hans Noel in U.S. Politics.

In addition to our core Government department faculty members, doctoral students benefit from faculty in the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service (SFS), the Graduate Public Policy Institute (GPPI), and the McDonough School of Business (MSB) who teach and research issues in international relations. Abraham Newman (SFS) researches the consequences of the information revolution and standards of privacy for international relations. Dennis Quinn (MSB) explores the causes and consequences of international economic liberalization. Jennifer Tobin (GPPI) works on issues of international aid and development. The School of Foreign Service’s Security Studies Program houses three faculty members—Christine Fair, Bruce Hoffman, and Colin Kahl—who are conducting influential research on terrorism and insurgency. Finally, a variety of scholar-practitioners on the faculty, including Madeline Albright (SFS) and Anthony Lake (SFS), are able to share their real world experiences with our students.

Aside from classes, a centerpiece of our curriculum is the Georgetown University International Theory and Research Seminar (GUITARS). GUITARS meets on a regular basis each semester to discuss the most recent and most significant research in the field of international relations. Visiting faculty from around the world visit Georgetown to present their research, exposing graduate students to this scholarship as well as allowing them to interact and network with important scholars.

Finally, Georgetown offers a variety of institutional resources that support research and teaching that is of interest to our PhD students. The Mortara Center for International Studies advances the study of all aspects of international affairs. The Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs explores the role of religion in relations between states, communities, and peoples. The Center for Peace and Security Studies is a forum for research at the nexus of theory and practice in international security.

In short, Georgetown’s Department of Government is quickly establishing itself as a leading place to pursue a doctorate in the field of international relations. We have a diverse and distinguished faculty that is eager to train the next generation of scholars of international relations. We hope you will join us.

The Department of Government also offers joint Masters/Ph.D. programs in Public Policy , Security Studies , German and European Studies , Latin American Studies , Eurasian-Russian-East European Studies , Arab Studies , and the Georgetown University Law School . In addition, it also offers Master’s degree in International Law and Government. Taking into account the Department, the School of Foreign Service, the Graduate Public Policy Program, and the Law School, Georgetown has an exceptionally distinguished, diverse, and large group of faculty in international relations, with an unusual blend of theoretical interests and practical policy experience.

Please see the Graduate Handbook for more details about our doctoral program, including requirements, courses, and faculty. Admissions information can be found here . Should any specific questions about the program remain, you may contact the Field Chair or our Graduate Program Officer .

Click here for information about the Georgetown University International Theory and Research Seminar (GUITARS)

Doctoral Program

Arches and columns of Encina Hall

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.

MIT 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 .

University of South Florida

School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies

College of Arts and Sciences

Main Navigation

Doctoral degree in politics and international affairs, overview and admissions.

The doctoral degree in politics and international affairs is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students to teach at the university and college levels and to conduct high-level research in the academic and nonacademic sectors. It combines a broad focus on international relations, comparative politics, American politics, and political theory with a critical understanding of institutions, rights, citizenship/identity, governance, global policy, and justice. Students work closely with faculty to frame their dissertation research and to advance their knowledge of their chosen fields of specialization. The program’s interdisciplinary approach to a variety of global issues provides a rich and open-ended opportunity to research current and past problems, movements, and transformations in politics.

Admission Requirements

We welcome your interest in our doctoral program. The department's deadline for fall admission is January 5 . The School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies only admits for the fall semester. Students must apply online through the Office of Graduate Admissions . For a listing of the admission requirements, students should consult the Graduate Catalog . 

*Effective starting with the 2023-2024 admissions cycle, GRE test scores are no longer required for applications to our doctoral program in Politics and International Affairs*

*International students should review the Office of Admissions International Students website for additional information and requirements.

*International students are also encouraged to contact the Office of International Services for information on visas, international travel, etc. 

PLEASE NOTE: International students whose native language is not English and who want to be considered for a teaching assistantship must show proficiency in spoken English even if their TOEFL has been waived for admission to a graduate program. More information on the TOEFL requirement can be found under Admission Requirements in the graduate catalog.

Feature: The Top 10 International Relations Ph.D. Rankings

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The Top 10 International Relations Ph.D. Rankings

Schools for the next generation of global intellectual heavyweights..

These rankings are part of the Teaching, Research, and International Policy (TRIP) survey , conducted by Paul C. Avey, Michael C. Desch, James D. Long, Daniel Maliniak, Susan Peterson, and Michael J. Tierney. All additional information provided was added by Foreign Policy and is not part of the survey results.

1. Harvard University Admitted class size: 14-26 Average time to graduate: 5-6 years Funding: All admitted students considered for fellowships, amounting to full/partial tuition and stipends Star professors: Robert Bates, Jeffry Frieden, Stephen M. Walt Website : http://www.gov.harvard.edu/graduate-program

2. Princeton University

Admitted class size: 40 Average time to graduate: 5 years, minimum Funding: Full tuition funding for four years, including living stipends Star professors: Robert Keohane, Uwe Reindhart, Anne-Marie Slaughter, Website: http://wws.princeton.edu/

3. Stanford University

Admitted class size: 12 Average time to graduate: N/A Funding: Full tuition and living stipend provided Star professors: Francis Fukuyama, Stephen Krasner, Condoleezza Rice Website : http://politicalscience.stanford.edu/

4. Columbia University

Admitted class size: 20 Average time to graduate: 5-7 years Funding: Guaranteed five-year fellowship , including living stipends Star professors: Jagdish Bhagwati, Robert Jervis, Jeffrey Sachs

Website: http://www.columbia.edu/cu/polisci/index.html

5. Yale University

Admitted class size: 23 Average time to graduate : 6.7 Funding: Guaranteed funding for five years . The first four years of tuition are guaranteed, followed by a university dissertation fellowship Star professors: Bruce Ackerman, David Cameron, Bruce Russett Website: http://www.yale.edu/polisci/index.html

5. University of Chicago

Admitted class size: 15-20 Average time to graduate: N/A Funding: Full tuition, plus $21,000 for five years, including $3,000 summer funding Star professors: John Mearsheimer, Robert Pape

7. University of California/San Diego

Admitted class size: 15-20 Average time to graduate: 5-6 years Funding: Guaranteed for four years, followed by teaching assistantships Star professors: Peter Gourevitch, Larry Krause, Susan Shirk Website: http://irps.ucsd.edu/programs/phd-in-political-science-and-international-affairs-phd/

8. University of California/Berkeley

Admitted class size: 18-26 Average time to graduate: 5-6 years, including 1 year of field research Funding: Five years of funding via fellowships, research, and teaching assistantships, (contingent on California residency) Star professors: Barry Eichengreen Website : http://polisci.berkeley.edu/

9. University of Michigan/Ann Arbor

Admitted class size: 12-17 Average time to graduate: 4-6 years Funding : Five years of funding , including a fellowship for the first year Star professors: Paul Courant, Kenneth Lieberthal Website: http://www.lsa.umich.edu/polisci/

9. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Admitted Class Size: 7-11 Average Time to Graduate: 5-6 years Funding: Five years of funding, including nine-month stipends Star professors: Daron Acemoglu, Barry R. Posen, Daniel Posner

Website: http://web.mit.edu/polisci/academic-programs/graduate/phd.shtml

The Best International Relations Schools in the World

The latest ranking of the top 50 IR programs for undergraduates, master's, and Ph.D.s.

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The main schools of thought still cling to an outdated understanding of how civilizations work.

America’s IR Schools Are Broken

There’s a lot of innovation on the surface, but the rot runs deep. Here’s how to fix it.

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2 PhD Degrees in International Relations in USA for 2024

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Doctorate in International Relations

Atlantic international university.

Atlantic International University

  • Honolulu, USA

Full time, Part time

Distance Learning

The Doctor of International Relations (D.Sc) goal is to provide students with a strong foundation in theory and practice of international relations necessary to conduct ground breaking research.

PhD in Diplomacy and International Affairs

Euclid (euclid university).

EUCLID (Euclid University)

  • Washington, USA
  • Gambia Online, Gambia

The only online Ph.D. program in diplomacy organized by an international intergovernmental organization and officially used by active diplomats over 4 continents.

Popular degree type

Popular study format

Popular education type

PhD Degrees in International Relations

International studies involves investigating how various actors relate to each other on the world stage. It includes subjects such as conflict, economics, politics, the environment, and other issues that affect more than one country.

The USA remains the world’s most popular destination for international students. Universities in the US dominate the world rankings and the country also offers a wide variety of exciting study locations. State university systems are partially subsidized by state governments, and may have many campuses spread around the state, with hundreds of thousands of students.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.

  • CEU PU - Deutsch
  • Közép-európai Egyetem

PhD Program

phd international relations usa

  • MA in International Relations (1 year)
  • MA in International Relations (2 years)
  • Advanced Certificate in International Political Economy
  • Career Support / Internships
  • Academic mobility
  • Important Information and Policies
  • PhD dissertations

The IR Department is part of the   Doctoral   School   of Political Science, Public Policy, and International Relations , and is responsible for administering the   International Relations Track   of the school’s PhD Program.

In the first year of the program, students on the track are required to take both mandatory and elective courses. The courses are designed to provide students with the necessary disciplinary and sub-disciplinary foundations together with extensive training in Social Science methods. On the International Relations track, a concentration on International Relations Theory is supplemented by specific concentrations on the two major sub-fields of Security Studies and International Political Economy. The aim of the track is to enable students to both understand and explain material (economic and military) as well as ideational factors that account for continuity and change in the international political system. Although therefore necessarily global in its outlook, the track is also committed to a particular focus on the European context; with concentrations on, for example, the European Union as a global political and economic actor. In doing so, the track draws upon positivist and non-positivist approaches in a commitment to pursue both traditional and critical theoretically-informed and policy-relevant scholarship.

At the end of the first year, following the passing of the Comprehensive Examination and the successful defence of the PhD Prospectus, students progress into the research stage of their work. During this period of time, students are supported by a primary supervisor together with a supervision panel. The supervisor and the panel guide and oversee the work of the student right through to the defence of their thesis. In addition, institutional funds are available for both conference travel and required elements of fieldwork.

Students graduating from the IR track are extremely well placed to successfully pursue academic careers both inside and outside of the Central and East European region. Not only can graduates in this way expect to be sought for research and teaching opportunities at leading academic institutions, but are also expected to progress to advanced academic and policy-oriented management positions in international, national, governmental and non-governmental institutions and initiatives.

For more information about the   program   and   admissions , please visit the CEU Doctoral School website .

Find out more about our current IR tack PhD students   here .

USA Chalo

Pursuing a PhD iN International Relations in the USA

Updated on: July 21, 2023

A globe with a magnifying glass hovering over it

Are you considering pursuing a PhD in International Relations? Do you want to know why the USA is a great destination for your doctoral studies? Look no further, as we explore the top universities in the USA for International Relations doctoral programs, the application process, funding options, the curriculum and coursework, research opportunities, career paths, and challenges of studying in the USA.

Why Choose the USA for a PhD in International Relations?

Top universities in the usa for international relations doctoral programs, application process for a phd in international relations in the usa, funding options for doctoral programs in international relations, curriculum and coursework for a phd in international relations, research opportunities available to phd students in international relations, career paths after earning a phd in international relations from the usa, challenges and opportunities of studying international relations in the usa, benefits of pursuing a phd in international relations abroad.

The USA is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations for international students pursuing graduate courses in the field of international relations. The academic excellence, cutting-edge research, world-class facilities, and multicultural environment make it a top choice for students from all over the world. Moreover, the USA has a diverse range of universities offering international relations doctoral programs that cater to different research interests and career goals.

Another advantage of pursuing a PhD in international relations in the USA is the opportunity to work with renowned scholars and experts in the field. Many universities in the USA have faculty members who are leading researchers and practitioners in international relations, providing students with access to valuable insights and networks. Additionally, the USA is home to numerous international organizations and think tanks, which offer opportunities for students to gain practical experience and build professional connections.

The USA boasts some of the best universities in the world for International Relations doctoral programs. Ivy League universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Princeton are highly ranked in the field, as are other renowned institutions such as Stanford, Columbia, and the University of Chicago. These universities offer exceptional academic programs, distinguished faculty, and state-of-the-art research opportunities.

In addition to these top-ranked universities, there are also many other excellent institutions in the USA that offer International Relations doctoral programs. Some of these include Georgetown University, Johns Hopkins University, Tufts University, and the University of California, San Diego. These universities have strong programs in areas such as international security, global governance, and conflict resolution, and provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and gain practical experience through internships and fieldwork.

Also read: Things to know about Pursuing a PhD in Design in USA

The application process for a PhD in International Relations in the USA can be rigorous and competitive. It involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and other materials. Prospective students are also required to take standardized tests such as the GRE or the TOEFL. It is essential to research and adhere to each university’s specific application requirements and deadlines intensely.

Additionally, some universities may require applicants to have relevant work experience or a master’s degree in a related field. It is also common for universities to conduct interviews with shortlisted candidates before making a final decision. As the application process can be lengthy and time-consuming, it is advisable to start preparing well in advance and seek guidance from professors or academic advisors.

Funding is a critical consideration for most prospective PhD students. Many universities in the USA offer various forms of financial assistance, including scholarships, research assistantships, and fellowships. Students are encouraged to research the funding options available to them at each institution and determine the best fit for their academic and financial needs.

Know more: 10 Best courses to study in USA

The curriculum and coursework for a PhD in International Relations in the USA typically consists of core classes in international relations theory, research methods, and comparative politics, among others. Additionally, students may be required to take elective courses in their area of research interest, which may range from global conflict resolution and human rights to international economics and diplomacy.

Furthermore, PhD students in International Relations are often required to complete a language requirement, which involves demonstrating proficiency in a foreign language relevant to their research. This language requirement is intended to equip students with the necessary skills to conduct research and analyze sources in their chosen region of study. In addition to coursework and language requirements, PhD students are also expected to conduct original research and produce a dissertation that contributes to the field of International Relations.

PhD students in International Relations in the USA have access to world-class research opportunities. These may include research assistantships, collaboration with international institutions and organizations, and opportunities to participate in research projects with faculty. The USA also has renowned think-tanks and policy centers that offer research opportunities to doctoral students, allowing them to gain real-world experience and practice.

Furthermore, PhD students in International Relations can also take advantage of various funding opportunities to support their research. Many universities offer grants and fellowships to support doctoral research, and there are also external funding sources such as foundations and government agencies that provide funding for research in this field.

Another benefit of pursuing a PhD in International Relations in the USA is the opportunity to attend conferences and present research papers. These conferences provide a platform for students to network with other scholars and professionals in the field, and to receive feedback on their research. Attending conferences also allows students to stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in International Relations.

Earning a PhD in International Relations in the USA opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in academia, government agencies, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations, among other areas. PhD holders can be employed in various roles, ranging from research analysts, policy experts, diplomats, and professors.

One of the most popular career paths for PhD holders in International Relations is academia. Graduates can become professors and researchers in universities and colleges, teaching and conducting research on various topics related to international relations. They can also publish their research in academic journals and present their findings at conferences.

Another career path for PhD holders in International Relations is working for government agencies. Graduates can work for the Department of State, the Department of Defense, or other government agencies, providing expertise on foreign policy, national security, and international relations. They can also work for intelligence agencies, analyzing and interpreting information related to international affairs.

One of the main challenges of studying International Relations in the USA is the cost of education. However, there are a variety of funding options available that can help mitigate this. Another challenge is the competitiveness of the application process, which requires students to adhere to strict requirements and deadlines. On the other hand, the opportunities for interdisciplinary research, networking, and practical experience offer immense opportunities for students.

Furthermore, studying International Relations in the USA provides students with exposure to a diverse range of perspectives and ideas. The country is home to a large number of international organizations, think tanks, and research centers, which offer students the chance to engage with experts in the field and gain a deeper understanding of global issues. Additionally, the USA is a hub for political and economic activity, providing students with opportunities to witness firsthand the workings of international relations in action.

Studying a PhD in International Relations in the USA offers numerous benefits, such as exposure to diverse perspectives, immersion in a multicultural environment, and the opportunity to work with renowned scholars and institutions. Moreover, earning a PhD in the USA is recognized worldwide and can significantly enhance one’s career prospects and offer a deeper understanding of global issues facing modern society.

In conclusion, If you seek to pursue a career in International Relations, pursuing a PhD in the USA may be a viable option. By exploring the top universities, the application process, funding options, the curriculum and coursework, research opportunities, career paths, and the challenges and opportunities of studying International Relations in the USA, this article provides a comprehensive guide to help you make a well-informed decision.

Aside from the benefits mentioned above, pursuing a PhD in International Relations abroad can also provide unique opportunities for language immersion and cultural exchange. For instance, studying in a country where the language of instruction is not your native language can help you develop language skills and cultural competencies that are highly valued in the field of International Relations.

Furthermore, studying abroad can also expose you to different research methodologies and approaches that may not be as prevalent in the USA. This can broaden your research skills and perspectives, and enable you to contribute to the field of International Relations in new and innovative ways.

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  1. Best 13 International Relations PhD Programmes in United States 2024

    13 International Relations PhDs in United States. Public Policy - Foreign Policy (Online) Liberty University Online. Public Policy - Chinese Affairs (Online) Liberty University Online. Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. Princeton University. International Affairs, Science and Technology. Georgia Institute of Technology.

  2. PhD in International Relations

    The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in International Relations trains scholars to conduct cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research across key areas of international affairs and political science. ... Medford, MA 02155 USA Main Phone +1 617-627-3700 Fax +1 617-627-3712. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Tufts University Land Acknowledgement ...

  3. PhD

    The School of International Service's (SIS) PhD in International Relations provides qualified and dedicated students with the training, knowledge, and experience necessary to pursue careers in the scholarly and policy worlds and to contribute game-changing solutions in international affairs as emerging thought leaders.

  4. Doctor of International Affairs (DIA)

    The Doctor of International Affairs is a practitioner's degree where students conduct applied research culminating in a doctoral thesis within their area of professional expertise. It is different from a traditional PhD, which requires comprehensive exams and is usually thought of as producing an original body of knowledge in preparation for ...

  5. Program: International Relations (PhD)

    Offered by the School of International Service , the International Relations (PhD) program enables students to produce knowledge for careers in university teaching and research, government, and non-governmental organizations both in the United States and internationally.The curriculum provides training in international relations that is both multi-disciplinary and policy-relevant.

  6. Ph.D. in International Affairs, Science, and Technology

    The Nunn School International Affair's Ph.D. program provides an unparalleled opportunity for students with backgrounds in either politics or science and technology to deepen their understanding of international affairs through the advanced study of sub-fields such as international relations theory, international security, international political economy, comparative politics, and methods for ...

  7. Ph.D. Program

    The Jackson School Ph.D. program advances problem-focused graduate education that combines a new cross-disciplinary approach with intensive area studies in the face of contemporary global and local challenges. The Jackson School of International Studies (JSIS) Ph.D. in International Studies provides a unique opportunity for candidates who seek ...

  8. Program Details

    During their first year, students take six required courses.In the fall semester students take SIS-801 Schools of Thought in International Relations, SIS-802 Comparative and Regional Studies, and SIS-806 Quantitative Methods in International Relations.During the spring semester, students take SIS-803 Advanced Seminar in International Relations, SIS-804 Social Theory in Comparative and ...

  9. Ph.D. in International Relations and Diplomacy

    A US-accredited Ph.D. in France. The Ph.D. in International Relations and Diplomacy at AGS combines the wide recognition of an American degree with the unique experience of a Paris-based program. It is accredited in the US as an affiliated program of Arcadia University (Pennsylvania) and taught at the American Graduate School in Paris, a ...

  10. PhD & Doctorate in International Relations Programs in United States

    A PhD in International Relations can take 3 to 5 years to finish, but this depends on your course load and the hours you commit to outside of class. Most PhD programs generally require around 42-46 credits per semester. Includes lessons, research papers/theses, exams/quizzes, and other required coursework.

  11. International Relations

    The department's graduate program in international relations prepares students for successful careers by introducing them to cutting-edge research across the field and training them to be productive and professional scholars. Our faculty members have produced award-winning research in the most selective journals—including the American Political Science Review, Foreign Affairs ...

  12. Princeton School of Public and International Affairs

    Each M.P.A. candidate selects a policy field in which to specialize from the school's four fields of concentration: international relations, international development, domestic policy, and economics and public policy. Students may also earn a joint degree in public affairs and law (M.P.A./J.D.), or in public affairs and business (M.P.A./M.B.A.).

  13. 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 ...

  14. PhD in Political Science

    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 ...

  15. Doctoral Degree in Politics and International Affairs

    The doctoral degree in politics and international affairs is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students to teach at the university and college levels and to conduct high-level research in the academic and nonacademic sectors. It combines a broad focus on international relations, comparative politics, American politics, and ...

  16. The Top 10 International Relations Ph.D. Rankings

    The Best International Relations Schools in the World. The latest ranking of the top 50 IR programs for undergraduates, master's, and Ph.D.s. Feature.

  17. 2 PhD Degrees in International Relations in USA for 2024

    Atlantic International University. Honolulu, USA. Online USA. PhD. Full time, Part time. Distance Learning. English. The Doctor of International Relations (D.Sc) goal is to provide students with a strong foundation in theory and practice of international relations necessary to conduct ground breaking research. Featured.

  18. PhD Program

    PhD Program. The IR Department is part of the Doctoral School of Political Science, Public Policy, and International Relations, and is responsible for administering the International Relations Track of the school's PhD Program. In the first year of the program, students on the track are required to take both mandatory and elective courses.

  19. Fully Funded PhD Programs in International Relations and ...

    Last updated October 14, 2023. In the follow-up to my article on How To Fully Fund Your PhD, here is a list of universities that offer fully funded PhD Programs in International Relations and International Development.There are several competitive, external fellowships that fund doctoral study, but if funding is a concern, it is a better strategy to apply to PhD programs that offer full ...

  20. Pursuing a PhD iN International Relations in the USA

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