Syracuse University

What you'll study

The doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, intensive methods training, comprehensive examinations, and a sustained programme of original research leading to a dissertation. Students typically pursue one or more substantive fields such as American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, and public administration, together with methodological specialisations in quantitative analysis, qualitative methods, formal theory, or mixed methods. Core coursework emphasises research design, statistical and computational techniques, and theoretical foundations in political science.

• Foundations in political science theory and major subfields
• Research design and causal inference
• Advanced statistics and econometrics or qualitative and interpretive methods
• Field seminars in areas such as voting and elections, institutions and governance, political behaviour, security studies, comparative political economy, and public policy analysis
• Professional development seminars on publishing, grant writing, pedagogy and job-market preparation
• Independent research credits culminating in a prospectus and dissertation

Students work closely with faculty advisors to tailor a program of study that supports their research agenda and often take advantage of interdisciplinary coursework across the Maxwell School, as well as partnerships with research centres and institutes on campus. Teaching experience as a graduate instructor or teaching assistant is commonly incorporated into doctoral training.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic preparation in political science or a related social science. Typical application components include:

• A completed online application and official academic transcripts
• A statement of research interests outlining proposed areas of study and fit with faculty expertise
• A curriculum vitae or résumé documenting academic and research experience
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytical and scholarly ability

Many successful applicants hold a master's degree in political science, public administration, or a related discipline, though applicants with a strong bachelor’s record and substantial research experience are also considered. Program-specific requirements such as GRE scores, language proficiency tests, or prerequisites in statistics may vary; applicants should consult the department's admissions page for current details.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue a range of careers in academia, public service, and the private sector. Common pathways include:

• University faculty positions in political science, public policy, and related departments
• Research roles at think tanks, policy institutes, and non-governmental organisations
• Analyst and advisory positions in national and local government, intergovernmental organisations, and public administration
• Data science, public opinion research, and consulting roles that utilise quantitative and qualitative research skills
• Leadership roles in international organisations, advocacy groups, and foundations

The programme’s emphasis on rigorous methods, publication, and professionalisation prepares graduates to contribute to scholarly debates and to inform evidence-based policy-making in a range of institutional settings.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse’s Department of Political Science is housed within the Maxwell School, renowned for its strengths in public affairs, policy, and interdisciplinary social science. Students benefit from close mentorship by faculty active in diverse research areas, and from a collegial environment that supports collaboration across disciplines. The university hosts research centres and institutes that offer seminar series, data resources, and internship connections, enhancing doctoral training and networking opportunities.

Doctoral students typically receive funding packages that may include research and teaching assistantships, tuition support, and access to professional development resources. The campus’s research infrastructure—libraries, computing and data labs, and specialised archives—supports sophisticated empirical and theoretical work. Proximity to regional policy hubs and active alumni networks can further aid students seeking applied research placements and postdoctoral or employment opportunities.

Taken together, the department’s methodological training, substantive breadth, and ties to Maxwell School resources make Syracuse a strong setting for ambitious scholars aiming to advance knowledge in political science and contribute to public life.