top phd political science programs

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 .

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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2024 Best Political Science Doctor's Degree Schools

In 2024, College Factual analyzed 102 schools in order to identify the top ones for its Best Political Science Doctor's Degree Schools ranking. Combined, these schools handed out 639 doctor's degrees in political science to qualified students.

Jump to one of the following sections: * Our Methodology

• Best Doctor’s Degree Schools List

Choosing a Great Political Science School for Your Doctor's Degree

Overall Quality Is a Must

The overall quality of a doctor's degree school is important to ensure a quality education, not just how well they do in a particular major. To make it into this list a school must rank well in our overall Best Colleges for a Doctor's Degree ranking. This ranking considered factors such as graduation rates, overall graduate earnings and other educational resources to identify great colleges and universities.

Other Factors We Consider

In addition to the above, you should consider some of the following factors:

• Major Focus - How much a school focuses on political science students vs. other majors.
• Major Demand - How many other political science students want to attend this school to pursue a doctor's degree.
• Educational Resources - The amount of money and other resources allocated to students while they are pursuing their degree. These resources include such things as number of students per instructor and education expenditures per student.
• Accreditation - Whether a school is regionally accredited and/or accredited by a recognized political science related body.

Our complete ranking methodology documents in more detail how we consider these factors to identify the best colleges for political science students working on their doctor's degree.

One Size Does Not Fit All

Since the program you select can have a significant impact on your future, we've developed a number of rankings , including this Best Political Science Doctor's Degree Schools list, to help you choose the best school for you.

Featured Political Science Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

BA in Political Science

Gain a solid understanding of American political history, the current political landscape, and the major political parties with this online bachelor's from Southern New Hampshire University.

Best Schools for Doctorate Students to Study Political Science in the United States

Explore the top ranked colleges and universities for political science students seeking a a doctor's degree. Only those schools that rank in the top 15% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.

15 Top Schools for a Doctorate in Poly Sci

Yale University is one of the finest schools in the United States for getting a doctor's degree in political science. Located in the city of New Haven, Yale is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from Yale University

It is hard to beat Harvard University if you wish to pursue a doctor's degree in political science. Harvard is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Cambridge. More information about a doctorate in political science from Harvard University

University of Chicago is a wonderful decision for students pursuing a doctor's degree in political science. Located in the large city of Chicago, UChicago is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from University of Chicago

It is hard to beat Columbia University in the City of New York if you wish to pursue a doctor's degree in political science. Located in the large city of New York, Columbia is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from Columbia University in the City of New York

Stanford is a large private not-for-profit university located in the large suburb of Stanford. More information about a doctorate in political science from Stanford University

Rice is a moderately-sized private not-for-profit university located in the city of Houston. More information about a doctorate in political science from Rice University

Located in the large city of Philadelphia, UPenn is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from University of Pennsylvania

Northwestern is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the small city of Evanston. More information about a doctorate in political science from Northwestern University

Princeton is a medium-sized private not-for-profit university located in the small city of Princeton. More information about a doctorate in political science from Princeton University

Located in the large city of Durham, Duke is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from Duke University

Located in the medium-sized city of Providence, Brown is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from Brown University

Located in the large city of Washington, Georgetown is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from Georgetown University

Cornell is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the small city of Ithaca. More information about a doctorate in political science from Cornell University

Johns Hopkins is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Baltimore. More information about a doctorate in political science from Johns Hopkins University

Located in the suburb of Saint Louis, WUSTL is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science from Washington University in St Louis

Additional Noteworthy Schools

These are some additional schools worth mentioning that are also great but just didn't quite make the cut to earn our top Best Political Science Doctor's Degree Schools award.

Political Science by Region

View the Best Political Science Doctor's Degree Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Best associate degrees in political science, best master's degrees in political science, best bachelor's degrees in political science, best overall in political science.

View All Rankings >

Rankings in Majors Related to Poly Sci

Political Science is one of 4 different types of Political Science & Government programs to choose from.

Majors Similar to Poly Sci

Notes and references.

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
• Credit for the banner image above goes to UKWiki at English Wikipedia . More about our data sources and methodologies .

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Political Science and Government Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 226 results

MIT School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

Cambridge, MA •

Massachusetts Institute of Technology •

Graduate School

Massachusetts Institute of Technology ,

Graduate School ,

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

Stanford University Department of Humanities and Sciences

Stanford, CA •

Stanford University •

Stanford University ,

STANFORD, CA ,

Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

New Haven, CT •

Yale University •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The resources at Yale are outstanding. While some of the required courses are slow-moving and less informative, I do have more academic freedom in my second year to the program to take classes that I enjoy across all departments (including data science, statistics, computer science, and law). ... Read 2 reviews

Yale University ,

NEW HAVEN, CT ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The resources at Yale are outstanding. While some of the required courses are slow-moving and less informative, I do have more academic freedom in my second year to the program to take classes that I... .

Read 2 reviews.

Suffolk University

Graduate School •

• • Rating 4.53 out of 5   15

Miami University - College of Liberal Arts and Applied Science

Miami University •

HAMILTON, OH

University of Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 4.43 out of 5   74

Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Harvard University •

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   9 reviews

Other: I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student' in the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Through this School, I will be focusing my time at the John A. Paulson school of Engineering & Applied Sciences. Looking forward to wrapping up my final year on campus! ... Read 9 reviews

Harvard University ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student'... .

Read 9 reviews.

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ •

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help students in office hours or in sponsorship of projects. The worst part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the lack of structure for the graduate research program which can leave you feeling unsure on the direction of your research. ... Read 3 reviews

PRINCETON, NJ ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help... .

Read 3 reviews.

Sanford School of Public Policy

Durham, NC •

Duke University •

• • Rating 4.75 out of 5   4 reviews

Current Master's student: My academic experience at Duke has been the most rewarding in my life. What makes Duke so great is the opportunity through the Sanford Policy School to exchange and engage ideas with professors and peers connected to my area of policy analysis. I have gotten the chance through summer internships to have real-world policy experience in analysis and implementation. Because my policy analysis is explicitly based on healthcare, I have focused on black maternal outcomes as my point of reference. I have had the opportunity to work with Professor Carolyn Barnes and collaborate since she is an expert in social and economic welfare and its effects on low-income families. The introductory and intermediate microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics classes give students a solid technical base when drafting briefs. One thing I would change is to provide more accessibility of recorded lectures when sick after the coronavirus. ... Read 4 reviews

Duke University ,

DURHAM, NC ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says My academic experience at Duke has been the most rewarding in my life. What makes Duke so great is the opportunity through the Sanford Policy School to exchange and engage ideas with professors and... .

Read 4 reviews.

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Brown University Graduate School

Providence, RI •

Brown University •

Brown University ,

PROVIDENCE, RI ,

School of Arts & Sciences - University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA •

University of Pennsylvania •

University of Pennsylvania ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

Rice University School of Humanities

Houston, TX •

Rice University •

Blue checkmark.

Rice University ,

HOUSTON, TX ,

Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

Northwestern University ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

College of Arts and Science

Nashville, TN •

Vanderbilt University •

Vanderbilt University ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

Washington University in St. Louis - Arts & Sciences

St. Louis, MO •

Washington University in St. Louis •

Washington University in St. Louis ,

ST. LOUIS, MO ,

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College of Arts and Letters - University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN •

University of Notre Dame •

Doctoral Student: The faculty at Notre Dame is excellent. The student to professor ratio makes for a wonderful one to one interaction between students and teachers. At Notre Dame, my interests, dreams, goals, research and career path matter. I loved this most. I feel taken seriously and supported with every possible resources for my mental, academic and career success. One gets many opportunities to grow talents through research, and presentations with helpful and supportive feedback from students and professors. For these reasons, I find it a place to be! On the down side, the weather is at first always a challenge for one who is not used to the harsh and gloomy midwestern winter. ... Read 2 reviews

University of Notre Dame ,

NOTRE DAME, IN ,

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The faculty at Notre Dame is excellent. The student to professor ratio makes for a wonderful one to one interaction between students and teachers. At Notre Dame, my interests, dreams, goals, research... On the down side, the weather is at first always a challenge for one who is not used to the harsh and gloomy midwestern winter. .

Social Sciences Division - University of Chicago

Chicago, IL •

University of Chicago •

• • Rating 3.75 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: The University of Chicago offers many clubs you can attend. Do to COIVD most of the clubs meet online and some in person one day out of the week. There's boxing, archery, fencing, and one of my personal favorites ju-jutsu, just to name a few. These sports are completive but they also have clubs that are just for fun and any body of any skill level can join. There is also this amazing climbing wall in the recreation center but we are not allowed to climb it at the moment because of COVID restrictions. It's also convent to be surrounded by hospitals (Rush and UIC). I got hurt while I was at school, I broke my arm, and I did not have to call on anyone to take me to the hospital, I could just walk. The food is okay and you get to chose from a good selection of things. The rooms where a nice size and most of the students were so friendly it was easy to make friends. ... Read 4 reviews

University of Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The University of Chicago offers many clubs you can attend. Do to COIVD most of the clubs meet online and some in person one day out of the week. There's boxing, archery, fencing, and one of my... .

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Cornell University College of Arts & Sciences

Ithaca, NY •

Cornell University •

Cornell University ,

ITHACA, NY ,

Rackham School of Graduate Studies

Ann Arbor, MI •

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: I was nervous about attending a prestigious school like The University of Michigan but once classes started I realized that I had made the right decision. Tuition is very expensive but I love my professors and I believe that I am getting the best education in the country! ... Read 3 reviews

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ,

ANN ARBOR, MI ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I was nervous about attending a prestigious school like The University of Michigan but once classes started I realized that I had made the right decision. Tuition is very expensive but I love my... .

Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - Georgetown University

Nw Washington, DC •

Georgetown University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We are informed of the professors office time and so we can email them to make inquiries and get assistance when needed. We make presentations during class which train us to become more bold and be able to communicate the concepts easily. We are able to discuss and critic writings independently. We work on projects in groups of about 3-4 and discuss findings to the entire class and professor. We review research papers and make meta-analyses inform of class projects. The program is well structured and i am gaining skills. My worst experience is having to worry about Tuition and other related school bills. ... Read 2 reviews

Georgetown University ,

NW WASHINGTON, DC ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We... .

UCLA College of Letters and Science

University of California - Los Angeles •

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

University of California - Los Angeles ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Read 1 reviews.

Krieger School of Arts & Sciences

Baltimore, MD •

Johns Hopkins University •

• • Rating 4.53 out of 5   19 reviews

Master's Student: I have yet to enroll for Fall 2023 after receiving my acceptance letter due to a delay in my need-based financial aid from JHU. However the Homewood Campus in Baltimore is beautiful and my Student Advisor, Alexis has been extremely helpful in initiating my enrollment process and answering all of my questions in a timely matter. My intended Advanced Academic Program is the accelerated (2 semester), dual-modality, 40-credit M.S. in Biotechnology, Biodefense concentration. All of the anticipated course subjects are diverse and there's even a customizable core lab course on campus (at least until Summer 2024). I can't wait and I wish you all the best in your search for academic programs or professional certifications. ... Read 19 reviews

Johns Hopkins University ,

BALTIMORE, MD ,

19 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I have yet to enroll for Fall 2023 after receiving my acceptance letter due to a delay in my need-based financial aid from JHU. However the Homewood Campus in Baltimore is beautiful and my Student... .

Read 19 reviews.

The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA •

University of Virginia •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Alum: Very good in some areas, excellent in other areas, many academic choices available in all areas of study ... Read 1 review

University of Virginia ,

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Very good in some areas, excellent in other areas, many academic choices available in all areas of study .

Laney Graduate School

Atlanta, GA •

Emory University •

Master's Student: I chose the graduate programs at Emory because they are ranked among the best in the country. The school of nursing also provides the clinical experiences, something many of the online only nurse practitioner programs do not do. ... Read 2 reviews

Emory University ,

ATLANTA, GA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says I chose the graduate programs at Emory because they are ranked among the best in the country. The school of nursing also provides the clinical experiences, something many of the online only nurse... .

UC Berkeley College of Letters & Science

Berkeley, CA •

University of California - Berkeley •

University of California - Berkeley ,

BERKELEY, CA ,

College of Arts & Sciences - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC •

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill •

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ,

CHAPEL HILL, NC ,

College of Social Sciences & Humanities - Northeastern University

Boston, MA •

Northeastern University •

• • Rating 1 out of 5   2 reviews

Northeastern University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 1 stars.

School of Humanities and Social Sciences - Mississippi College

Mississippi College •

CLINTON, MS

Mississippi State University

MISSISSIPPI STATE, MS

• • Rating 4.51 out of 5   49

San Francisco State University

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

• • Rating 4.19 out of 5   52

Showing results 1 through 25 of 226

Department of Political Science

The Political Science Ph.D.

The Vanderbilt Ph.D. program in political science ranks among the top programs of its kind, both overall and by subfield (American Politics, Comparative Politics, with International Relations on the rise).

Our faculty and students study many varied subjects using a diverse slate of methodologies. Vanderbilt’s political science department is known for its deep expertise in several areas of excellence that cross subfield boundaries, including bureaucracies, political violence and conflict, the politics of gender, democracy in middle-to-low-income countries, mass political behavior, survey methodology, and formal theory.

Our graduate program offers intensive training in three fields of political science: American Politics, Comparative Politics, and International Relations. We admit between eight and twelve doctoral students per year and prepare them for successful careers in academia, government, international organizations, or research-centered jobs.

While we admit a small percentage of applicants for our program, we aim to bring the most diverse, talented, and innovative students in the world to Nashville to study political science. As a student in our program, you are joining a supportive intellectual and social community.

Some of the key benefits of Vanderbilt’s political science Ph.D. program are:

• A top-ranked faculty with deep expertise in substantive political science and the methodologies needed to answer important questions about our political world
• Access to research-supporting resources like the Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions , the Latin American Public Opinion Project Lab, the Research on Conflict and Collective Action Lab, and the Research on Individuals, Politics, and Society Lab
• A nearly 1:1 student: faculty ratio, allowing for close mentoring and support
• A rigorous program of coursework and research milestones that pair deep substantive knowledge with cutting-edge methodological and data science skills
• Membership in a community of smart, hardworking, and supportive doctoral candidates who prioritize collaboration and discovery
• Residence in Nashville, a fast-growing mid-size city with a high quality of life and wide array of entertainment and recreational offerings

Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Like Vanderbilt University, the Department of Political Science defines diversity broadly to include experiences, perspectives, backgrounds, and identities. We believe such diversity among our faculty and students enhances the intellectual experience and achievements of this academic community. As such, we are committed to principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action, and we encourage individuals from diverse, under-represented, and traditionally excluded populations to apply to our program.

Our graduate program seeks to:

• Continually strengthen the climate for current students and faculty from traditionally excluded groups and foster a welcoming and vibrant community of scholars.
• Recruit more graduate students from underrepresented and traditionally excluded groups to the department and discipline.
• Give all students and faculty the tools to succeed and support one another in a diverse discipline.

Applying to the Program

The application deadline for the Ph.D. program is December 15 for the coming fall semester. We welcome applicants from all institutions, backgrounds, and experiences with a passion for research in political science. The application fee is $95.00.

When you apply, you are applying to the program as a whole and the faculty decides together who would be the best fit. Individual faculty members do not review and accept individual doctoral students they want to advise. There is no need to secure a faculty mentor ahead of your application .

Please direct all Ph.D. admission inquiries to Director of Graduate Studies, Sharece Thrower .

Qualifications

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any major and show evidence of a passion for research in political science. The most successful applicants demonstrate mathematical or statistical proficiency and experience in original research. There is no minimum score for the GRE, TOEFL, or minimum required GPA. It is optional for applicants to submit their GRE scores. Strong letters of recommendation (generally from faculty members) are essential. Finally, but most importantly, we look for a fit between the student's intellectual interests and our faculty's scholarly expertise.

Information to Submit

The Graduate Studies Committee reviews all aspects of an applicant's file. We try to get a sense of an applicant’s many facets, skills, and experiences across the different materials:

• Statement of purpose (see details below)
• Official transcripts from each college or university attended
• 3-5 letters of recommendation speaking to academic abilities
• Writing sample of 15-25 pages (preferably a paper from a course that illustrates the candidate's ability to write and to conduct research)
• Unofficial or official GRE scores are optional
• Students from non-English-speaking countries should also submit a recent TOEFL score; students graduating with a degree from a four-year English-speaking institution are exempt from this requirement.

Statement of Purpose

Successful applicants should use the personal statement to clearly articulate their interest in pursuing a doctorate in political science and their research objectives. There are no required elements, but some questions that can help guide the statement include:

• What questions or puzzles in political science fascinate you?
• What approaches do you think will help you answer those puzzles?
• Why do you want to earn a Ph.D., and why in political science?
• How have your studies and experiences prepared you for a challenging Ph.D. program?
• Why do you think the Vanderbilt program and its faculty are the best place for you to study your questions of interest and develop needed skills?

Visiting Campus

We hold a recruitment visit in March for all applicants who receive offers of admission to the program. Visits consist of meals with current graduate students and faculty, group meetings to learn about program requirements and benefits, and one-on-one meetings with those faculty members and students you are most likely to work with.

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Ph.d. in political science.

We are ranked as a top-ten research department and our graduate program has an excellent job placement record. Over the past decade, the vast majority of our PhD graduates have gone on to attain tenure-track positions, and many other students have become leaders in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. 

In addition to a demanding sequence of courses during the first two years, our graduates begin working with faculty from the very first day, to gain an appreciation of the challenges involved in producing innovative research.

This paves the way to their own intellectual development, the first major milestone of which is a solo-authored research paper to be presented to the department during their second year in the program. From that point on, until the completion of the dissertation in year five, the focus is primarily on independent and collaborative research.

Our graduate program is organized around subfields that address major theoretical questions about political life, encourage collaboration across intellectual boundaries, and place us at the frontiers of the discipline. As a graduate student here, you will become certified in two major fields and gain exposure to other fields through our graduate workshop series.

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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 credits. Those entering the program from a Boston University MA program will be able to transfer over some of their course credits 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:

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

Methodology

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

• GRS PO 841 Quantitative Research Methods
• GRS PO 842 Qualitative Approaches to the Study of Political Science
• GRS PO 843 Techniques in Political Analysis: Maximum Likelihood Estimation
• GRS 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 semesters of GRS PO 903/904 Research Workshop must be taken in years 2 or 3.

Professional Development

GRS 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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Ph.D. Program

Thank you for visiting the graduate program website and for giving us the opportunity to introduce ourselves. We take special pride in our Department’s high national ranking in the discipline — and in the shared determination of our faculty to continue to build an exciting intellectual community. Our graduate program combines outstanding faculty and students, a broad-ranging curriculum oriented toward research, and the resources of one of the nation’s great universities. In addition to housing many leading departments in the social science, humanities and natural sciences, UCLA offers one of the world’s foremost research libraries, exceptional computing facilities, and an extensive network of interdisciplinary centers and institutes that foster linkages across disciplinary boundaries.

Our Department is a fairly large one, staffed by approximately 45 core faculty. Each year we aim for an entering class of about 15 to 20, which allows for considerable personal attention to each of our students. Currently, we have about 150 students in residence. We consider ourselves a “full service” department: our large and intellectually diverse faculty offers coursework and opportunities for research in all of the major sub-fields of the discipline. In addition, our graduate students have found that our curriculum facilitates intensive study in a number of cross-cutting areas – empirical and theoretical, contemporary and historical. Among these interdisciplinary concentrations are political economy, American political development, race and politics, and the philosophical, historical, and literary dimensions of political theory. Because UCLA is home to a large number of centers for language and area studies our students often focus their doctoral research on the politics of specific world regions while drawing theoretical and empirical leverage from sources that transcend conventional boundaries.

Our emphasis on rigorous academic training and independent research creates a diverse and intellectually exciting graduate student community. Most of our doctoral graduates go on to careers in academic institutions, but many have also found challenging employment in the public sector or in private organizations that emphasize research and analytic skills. In the past decade or so, our graduates have obtained tenure-track academic positions at Princeton, Yale, Harvard, Harvard’s Kennedy School, Stanford, Pittsburgh, Rochester, Michigan, UC Berkeley, and UC San Diego. Others have joined such institutions as the World Bank, the State Department, the Federal Reserve Bank, RAND, and the Carnegie Endowment.

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PhD in Political Economy & Government

In this section.

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Beginning in Fall 2022, the PhD in Political Economy and Government (PEG) will no longer be admitting students.  Students may apply to the PhD program in Public Policy (PPOL) , or consider the PhD Programs in the Economics Department or the PhD Program in Government . 

The PEG program will continue with the outlined course requirements for students who matriculated in Fall 2021. HKS will continue to fully fund and support all current PEG students until they have completed the program and graduated. However, going forward, prospective students will no longer be able to apply to or be admitted to the PEG program.

As of Fall 2021, prospective students interested in focusing on an economics or political science perspective of political economy are encouraged to apply to the PhD programs offered by the Department of Economics and the Department of Government at the  Graduate School of Arts and Sciences or the newly created PhD program in Public Policy (PPOL) tracks: Economics and Politics and Institutions (Political Science) . 

History of the PhD in Political Economy and Government

Dating to the 1930s, the PhD Program in Political Economy and Government (PEG) was initiated with the objective of fostering research at the intersection of Economics and Political Science. A collaborative program between Harvard Kennedy School, the Department of Economics, and the Department of Government, PEG emphasized positive—as opposed to normative—political economy. The PEG program combines rigorous training in economics, formal theory, and quantitative empirical methods with a substantive focus on the interaction between economic and political institutions and processes. Students combine coursework from the Department of Economics  and the Department of Government for an interdisciplinary program of study.

Students and faculty members in the PEG program share an intellectual interest in the impact of politics on economic processes and outcomes, and the reciprocal influence of economic conditions on political life. It covers research areas as diverse as international economic relations, financial economics, political development, political and economic institutions, institutional transition and reform, the economic importance of culture, economic performance, environmental resource policies, and social policy.

Doctoral Program Admissions

Phd student life.

2024 Best Online PhD in Political Science Programs

An online PhD political science program may be a good fit for you if you’re interested in gaining an advanced understanding of public policy, governance, and political institutions.

This career path may allow you to participate in valuable research activities within an academic or government setting. You may also get the opportunity to teach political science students at a postsecondary level.

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By earning this advanced degree in political science, you may take advantage of the field’s positive job outlook and high annual salaries.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Political Science Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University’s Doctor of Public Administration program requires 56 units for completion and can be finished in only 3 years. It’s a cohort-model program, and courses are delivered via 8 week courses. Graduating students should be able to address issues in a global context, using Christian ethics as a guide.

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Liberty University

The PhD in Public Policy program at Liberty University is a 60 credit program that takes about 3 years to complete. The curriculum is delivered 100% online through a series of 8 week courses. There are optional specializations in foreign policy, education policy, social policy, economic policy, and national security policy.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University offers a Doctor of Public Administration program that requires the completion of 18 courses and can typically be completed in 41 months.

The program seeks to teach students how to evaluate current issues in public organizations, create practical strategies based on evidence-based research, and formulate domestic and global solutions to public policy issues.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Old Dominion University

The PhD in Public Administration and Policy program offered at Old Dominion University provides students with solid foundations in theory and issues surrounding public administration and public policy. Students learn to conduct policy analyses, conduct original research in public administration, report on their research, and assess policy and implementation issues.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University

Regent University’s online PhD in Governement program will provide training in the study and practice of government. Students learn from specialized, field-specific coursework tailored to their interests and career goals with international development, international relations, security studies, and policy advocacy concentrations.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Salve Regina University

Students interested in public policy and public administration at Salve Regina University can enroll in the school’s PhD in International Relations program. It’s the first program of its kind in the nation, and it seeks to “promote humanity and eliminate prejudice” by teaching students to have a more comprehensive, empathetic global worldview.

Salve Regina University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University offers a PhD in Public Policy and Administration. The degree is available in a synchronous online format that enables students to continue working full-time. Some electives are asynchronous. Students in the program are given opportunities to conduct research and present their findings at scholarly conferences.

Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University’s Doctor of Public Administration program is a 54 credit program that can be taken online. It’s a good program for students interested in pursuing careers as public policy analysts, directors, specialists or consultants, public works directors, city managers, or professors. There are specific GRE and GPA requirements.

Valdosta State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Students in the PhD in Public Policy and Administration program at Walden University will take foundational, core, research, and dissertation-related courses. Students must also complete a doctoral capstone and four residencies to graduate. Available courses include foundations for doctoral studies, ethics and social justice, and strategic planning: collaboration, cooperation, and coordination.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

West Chester University

West Chester University’s Doctor of Public Administration degree can be earned entirely online. There are four concentrations available in graduate social work, geography and planning, criminal justice, and public policy and administration. The curriculum focuses on policy advocacy and leadership, public sector financial and economic decision making, and strategic management.

West Chester University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Online PhD in Political Science Programs

Earning a PhD in Political Science online may provide you with the opportunity to pursue advanced research and education related to governance, political systems, policy, and political theory.

This educational pursuit may contribute to a deeper understanding of international political relations and comparative politics. Your coursework may include a look at how politics operate in different countries around the world, including Russia, Eastern and Western Europe, Asia, and South America.

With a PhD in Political Science, you may be qualified for advanced positions in policy planning, development, and analysis. You may also evaluate and explain legislative and governance processes at a local, national, and international level.

Positions in research within a government institution, academic setting, or bipartisan think tank may be available to you as well. Areas of study in a PhD political science program may include comparative politics, American politics, international politics, economics, and national security.

Comparative politics emphasizes understanding the differences and nuances of political processes, policies, and institutions of different countries. American politics focuses on the study of the US specifically. This includes a look at the two-party political system, constitution, and impact of public policy on the population in the United States.

In most PhD programs, research is the cornerstone of the curriculum. As a result, you may be required to complete coursework to advance your research practices. This may include taking courses in qualitative and quantitative research methods related to political science.

Political Science Careers & Salaries

With a PhD in Political Science, you may be in a position to pursue advanced career paths in government, from local, state, and national politics to foreign policy and international relations.

You may also be qualified to become a member of faculty at various postsecondary institutions, acting as a professor or instructor. In this role, you may be responsible for the development of curriculum in relation to various political science topics as well as instructing students on those content areas.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , there are several rewarding and lucrative careers in the field of political science .

Another common career for those with an online doctorate in political science is a researcher. Research positions may exist within government, academia, or business sectors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers stemming from a PhD in Poli Sci are predicted to experience growth over the next ten years. This includes the positions of political scientists (6%), postsecondary teachers (9%), urban and regional planners (11%), and economists (14%).

PhD in Political Science Curriculum

Within political science PhD programs, the curriculum builds on the foundation of previous studies in master level programs and work experience in the field of poli sci.s

Courses may cover a range of political science, public policy, and public administration topics at national and international levels of politics.

• Public Administration : This course will give an advanced look at the development and implementation of public policies by various levels of government in America.
• Public Policy Analysis : You’ll examine the principles of analysis in relation to public policy and governance in American society and with consideration to population equity and globalization.
• American Political Parties : This course gives an in-depth analysis of the two-party political system in US politics, including the various roles within the parties, historical party performance, and ideological foundations.
• Political Theory : You’ll receive a comprehensive review of various political theories in relation to American politics throughout history, including social, revolutionary, progressive, and conservative politics.
• Comparative Politics : This course utilizes comparative and empirical methodologies to examine similarities and differences between various countries, populations, and concepts in relation to politics.
• International Law : In this course, you’ll get an in-depth look at contemporary issues, perspectives, and topics in relation to international law and public policy, including human rights, environment, and terrorism.
• Global Politics : This course is a review of international relations, globalization, and the global economy and its relationship to and impact on government and public policy.
• European Politics : You’ll explore public administration, political behavior, voting patterns, and policy in a European context.
• Qualitative Research Methods : You’ll learn qualitative research methods utilized in the discipline of political science and policy analysis.
• Quantitative Research Methods : This course is an examination of quantitative research methods and best practices in the field of political science.

Other course topics covered in a PhD political science degree program may include foreign policy, organizational behavior, feminism, racism, and political revolutions.

Admissions Requirements

Due to the advanced nature of political science PhD programs, you may be required to have the following before being accepted into a program:

• Masters degree : You may be required to submit proof that you have completed a master’s degree program at an accredited postsecondary institution to be accepted into a PhD program.
• Work experience : Some schools may require you to have previous work experience in government or policy-related career paths.
• Letters of recommendation : In many cases, PhD programs will request one or more letters of recommendation from former academic or workplace supervisors and colleagues.

Additional admission requirements—such as a complete CV or proof of funding for your PhD studies—may depend on the program and school you’re interested in applying to.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation verifies the academic quality of a postsecondary program. The accreditation status of a program not only impacts your ability to transfer credits from one institution to another but can also play an important role in the hiring decisions of an organization.

A program’s accreditation status may also impact your ability to register with various political science member-based associations. It may also influence your ability to receive adequate funding for your PhD studies. You can find out the accreditation status of programs you’re interested in attending through the US Department of Education ‘s website.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Pursuing a PhD in Political Science may be a significant and costly undertaking. Luckily, financial aid options, like federal and state aid or scholarships, may help ease the financial aspect of your degree.

Due to the large amount of research that is undertaken as part of a PhD program, some postsecondary institutions offer full or partial funding for PhD students. The availability of school-based funding varies from one school to the next. In some cases, funding may be limited to program length.

For example, a school that has a PhD program that can be completed in 5 years with full-time study may only provide funding for 5 years. In that instance, no additional funding may be given if you require additional time to complete your PhD.

For more information about the financial aid options that may be available to you, you can visit the US Department of Education’s website and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid .

What Can You Do with a PhD in Political Science?

With a PhD in Political Science, you may be able to pursue a career as a political scientist working in government, business, or nonprofit. You may also be able to develop a career as a policy analyst or economist.

Other common careers with a PhD in Political Science include researchers as well as professors or instructors at postsecondary institutions. Online PhD programs in political science may advance your career as a social scientist, urban or regional planner, and survey researcher.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Political Science?

A PhD in Political Science may generally take between 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the program you choose to enroll in. Programs may be composed of a combination of courses, research, teaching placements, examinations, and the completion of a dissertation.

In some cases, PhD programs will set a maximum number of years for completion. This means that you must complete your coursework, research, and dissertation within that timeframe in order to ensure your eligibility to graduate.

Can You Get a PhD in Political Science?

Yes, you may pursue a PhD in Political Science. Other common doctoral degrees related to the field of political science include a PhD in Public Policy or a PhD in Public Administration.

While there is some overlap between political science, public policy, and public administration programs, some key differences exist in the areas of emphasis or concentration. Political science focuses on content related to structures of the political system, analysis of policy and events, and researching political behavior. Political science encompasses both public policy and public administration.

Public policy, as the name suggests, centers more specifically around the advanced study of public policy. Public administration focuses on the bureaucracy of politics, including the implementation of policy and processes.

Is a PhD in Political Science Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate in political science is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, life, physical, and social science jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common careers for political science PhD graduates in this field include professor, political scientist, researcher, policy analyst, and economist. With your completed degree, you may be able to find exciting career opportunities in government, business, academic, and nonprofit sectors.

Getting Your PhD in Political Science Online

Earning your PhD in Political Science through an accredited online program may provide you with lucrative and rewarding career options.

This field may offer the opportunities to lead social advocacy initiatives, plan and develop public policy, develop postsecondary political science curriculum, and instruct future political science professionals. Careers in various areas of political science are expected to experience growth over the next decade.

If you are interested in advancing your career in this field, it may be an advantageous time to pursue your PhD in Political Science.

Best American Politics Programs

Ranked in 2021, part of Best Social Sciences and Humanities Schools

A graduate degree in American

A graduate degree in American politics will give students an advanced understanding of the three branches of government, federalism, political behavior and more. These are the top political science programs for American politics. Read the methodology »

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Challenging World Orders Through Collaboration and Critical Pedagogy

Nina Kaushikkar is a second-year PhD student studying International Relations and Comparative Politics, focusing on decolonial feminist approaches to sovereignty, violence, and community formation with an emphasis on the Global South. She graduated from Carleton College with bachelor’s degrees in Political Science/International Relations and English. While at Carleton, she participated in the  Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship , “aimed at diversifying the professoriate in the humanities and humanistic social sciences by providing mentorship and financial support.” In her spare time, she loves to cook & bake, travel, hike, read, solve puzzles, and spend time with her friends & family.

Read the below Q&A to learn about Nina’s experiences as a political science PhD student.

What are your goals in the program? What experiences and opportunities have you had in the program?

I aim to participate in conversations in and outside the discipline that challenge dominant, hegemonic, oppressive world orders and grammars through the lens of storytelling, narrative, and fiction. Many people’s first introductions to international politics come through stories—myths, folktales, poetry, novels, and personal family histories. I contend that these are a distinct way of “doing” International Relations, in that they provide a way to reformulate possibilities for community formation and global relations within an imperial core.

I am also committed to collaboratively building a learning environment where marginalized students can feel represented, welcomed, and safe to pursue their research, especially when it is informed by their lived experience. Despite nationwide official commitments to equity and inclusion in the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder in 2020, and the ensuing local and global moment of reckoning with systems of racial capitalism, inequities in academia persist. This year, I have joined the department’s DEI Committee and the  Graduate Student Life Committee to advocate for increased protections for graduate students and workers. Drawing on my lived experience and the context of my work on various forms of discrimination and exclusion, I aim to bring attention to these patterns in the classroom and in conversations about IR. This regularly informs my pedagogy as a TA: I try to ensure that my students feel comfortable contributing to political and social thought in and outside of academia, and that they feel they belong in this discipline.

What have been your biggest challenges as a graduate student? How have you overcome them?

A significant challenge has been finding space for myself and the work I do in my field and the discipline at large, given my own experiences and those of my peers in feeling marginalized and excluded by disciplinary norms, boundaries, and practices. These experiences are compounded by larger patterns of exclusion and inequity. For instance, emblematic of these tendencies, within this department, it has been nearly two decades since the last South Asian woman graduated with a PhD. Numerous articles, as well as a  2022 APSA task force that examined issues of inequality along lines of race, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation have confirmed the widespread nature of feelings of rejection, isolation, and insecurity—financial or otherwise—that marginalized students in political science regularly face.

I have found a great deal of strength from and community with other graduate students who have endured similar experiences, both inside and outside this department. Through shared work to build relationships that center love, care, and solidarity, I am lucky to have found other scholars who seek to make academia a more joyful space. I have also greatly benefited from the support, encouragement, and reassurance I’ve received from faculty mentors. Additionally, I am immensely grateful to groups on campus like  Students for Justice in Palestine and affiliated organizations, who remind us of the responsibility we have as scholars of politics to speak out about genocide, injustice, and systems of domination and exploitation.

What are some of the greatest skills you have learned as a graduate scholar? What has helped you grow as a scholar?

One of the most valuable things I’ve learned from both my time in graduate classes and as a TA is student-centered approaches to teaching. By observing the strategies professors implement in the classroom, I have been building crucial skills in developing good pedagogical practices and frameworks. Such practices include encouragement and affirmation, both inside and out of the classroom; being proactive in access and accommodation needs; and effectively moderating classroom discussions, particularly around sensitive topics.

Additionally, learning from and thinking with my own diverse communities of scholars—both within and outside the department—has heavily influenced my approaches to pedagogy and my personal and professional development. I have learned how to engage in research relationally, and with an emphasis on decolonial, feminist, anti-caste, and anti-racist practices that challenge the power hierarchies and imbalances present within academic scholarship.

What advice do you have for prospective and current graduate students?

My biggest piece of advice would be to find your people and build your community in graduate school. This is a collective endeavor, and having those networks of support are critical both during the program and after graduation. These groups also provide a space to safely explore and think creatively about your research interests and ideas; having a group of people who support you and read your work generously makes it easier to share your ideas with the world. My other piece of advice would be to find something that brings you joy outside of your work, whether that’s a hobby or a daily routine—this helps avoid burnout and allows you to make the most of what the program has to offer.

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Political science.

Our Master of Arts in Political Science provides training in the core scholarly areas of political science, such as American government, international relations, comparative politics, and public policy, plus signature concentrations in security studies, European studies, and Middle East studies. Courses in the MA program serve as a foundation for work in a doctoral program or as preparation for a career in government, a nonprofit organization, or the private sector.

Beyond the foundational courses of the MA degree, Master of Arts in Political Science students are offered a range of options including theoretical or practitioner-oriented courses, the pursuit of internships, the writing and submission of a research thesis, or the individualized exploration of a research topic through a directed study. Additionally students are allowed to explore the field with a more focused emphasis, working within one of our five core areas of research and practitioner expertise: American government and politics, comparative government and politics, international relations, public policy, and security studies.

With decades of outstanding scholarship, our MA students have gone on to pursue a wide range of opportunities. Many have used the degree as a foundation for doctoral work, taking advantage of the opportunity offered by our master’s program to take higher-level research courses with doctorate-level students. Others have utilized the degree as an academic foundation to a career in government, including work at the federal, state, and local level, as well as work in international development or relations.

Learn more about the Master of Arts in Political Science program from the College of Social Sciences and Humanities .

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Unique features.

• Five concentrations: American government and politics, comparative government and politics, international relations, public policy, and security studies
• Students may pursue internships, a research thesis, experiential learning opportunities, or directed study
• Select courses offered online

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• English proficiency for international applicants
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Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

View Political Science Department Faculty...

Mai'a Cross

Kirsten Rodine-Hardy

Denis Sullivan

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Political Science and Security alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Commonwealth of Massachusetts
• Fidelity Investments
• State Street
• Liberty Mutual Insurance

What They Do

• Business Development
• Community and Social Services

What They're Skilled At

• Public Speaking
• Microsoft Office

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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Summer Courses Offerings in Political Science

Enroll Today! 

Whether you're an undergraduate student looking to improve your education path or a graduate student looking to broaden your skills, our diverse range of courses ensures an interesting study of different political contexts. 

Undergraduate Courses: 

1. PSCI 1001, Introduction to Political Science: The Quest for Freedom and Justice 

Section E01: Professor Harvey Bishop teaches this online course, giving a comprehensive introduction to the core principles and theories of political science.

Meeting dates: June 3, 2024 to July 27, 2024.

2. PSCI 1101: American Poltical System 

Section E01: Professor Karen Breslin in this online course explores the complexity of the American political system.                      

Meeting dates: June 3, 2024, to July 27, 2024

3. PSCI 2011: Logic of Political Inquiry 

Section E01: Professor Karen Beslin's online course studies the logic of political inquiry, to develop analytical skills necessary to understand political events.                                                    

Meeting dates: June 3, 2024 to July 27, 2024. 

4. PSCI 3022: Political Systems of the World 

Section E01: Professor Martin Widzer, gives a deep review of political systems around the world focusing on the structures and dynamics that shape global politics.                                        

Meeting dates: June 3, 2024 to July 27, 2024

5. PSCi 3042: World Politics 

Section E01 Thorsten Sphen leads students on an investigation of the details of world politics, examining important topics.                      

 Meeting dates: June 3, 2024 to July 27, 2024 

6. PSCI 3347: Film and Politics 

Section E01: Professor Harvey Bishop leads this online course in which students look at how the film develops and reflects political narratives.

Graduate Courses: 

1. PSCI 5245: Gender, development and Globalization 

Section E01: Professor Karen Sugar teaches this online course a thorough understanding of complex understanding relationships between gender, development, and globalization.  

Meeting Dates: June 6, 2024 to July 8, 2024 

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Interested in becoming civics and social studies teacher?  Consider combining the political science major with a  Minor in Social Studies . Contact Professor John Hulsey at  [email protected]  for more information.

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