Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines intensive coursework, methodological training, and sustained original research leading to a dissertation. Early stages typically emphasise core theory and methods, followed by advanced seminars and independent study focused on the student’s substantive area. Common areas of concentration offered by the department include:

• American politics — political institutions, political behaviour, public opinion, campaigns and elections.
• Comparative politics — institutions and political development, parties and political economy, democratization and authoritarianism.
• International relations — security studies, international political economy, international organisations and foreign policy analysis.
• Political theory — normative theory, contemporary and historical political thought, ethics and democratic theory.
• Public policy and administration — policy analysis, implementation, and the politics of public management.

Methodological training is a core component: students take coursework in qualitative and quantitative methods, formal modelling as appropriate, research design, and data analysis. Typical elements of the programme include comprehensive examinations (written and/or oral), a prospectus or dissertation proposal, and the production and defence of an original doctoral dissertation. Students may tailor their programme through electives, directed readings, collaborative research with faculty, and interdisciplinary work with other departments or centres across the university.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the PhD programme are normally expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree and, in many cases, a relevant master’s degree in political science or a related field. Typical application components include:

• An academic transcript demonstrating strong performance in relevant coursework.
• A statement of purpose that outlines research interests, prior research experience, and fit with faculty expertise.
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytic ability and potential for original research (for example, a term paper, master’s thesis chapter, or published work).
• Letters of recommendation, usually from academic referees who can speak to research potential.
• A current curriculum vitae.
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, in accordance with the university’s requirements.

Admissions decisions are based on the overall strength of an application and the alignment of the applicant’s interests with departmental faculty who can provide supervision. Applicants with substantive coursework or research experience in quantitative and qualitative methods are especially competitive. Applicants should consult the department for any additional programme-specific expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates from a PhD in Political Science and Government pursue a range of careers that make use of advanced research and analytical skills. Common career paths include:

• Academic careers as tenure-track faculty or lecturers in political science and related fields.
• Research positions at think tanks, policy institutes, and non-governmental organisations, conducting policy analysis and program evaluation.
• Roles in government and public service at local, regional, national or international levels, including policy advisory and analytic positions.
• Data and research analyst roles in the private sector, consulting firms, and civic technology organisations.
• Positions in international organisations and diplomacy where expertise in international relations and comparative politics is valued.

Doctoral training also prepares graduates for leadership roles that require rigorous argumentation, empirical evidence-gathering, and the communication of complex ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University offers doctoral students a research-intensive environment with opportunities for close faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration across social sciences, law, public health and other professional schools. The Department of Political Science and Government supports personalised supervision and small advanced seminars that allow students to develop a focused research agenda.

Located in Cleveland, the university provides access to a range of external organisations—local government, courts, non-profits and policy organisations—that can enrich applied research and fieldwork. Doctoral students also benefit from the university’s research infrastructure, library resources, and professional development workshops aimed at preparing scholars for academic and non-academic careers.

Funding support is commonly available through teaching and research assistantships, fellowships and departmental support; prospective students should consult the department for details about typical funding packages and opportunities for professional development and conference participation.