Clark University

What you'll study

The PhD combines advanced coursework, methodological training, comprehensive examinations and an independent dissertation. Students take seminars across core subfields — comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and American politics/public law — and choose elective seminars aligned with their research interests.

• Core seminars: advanced theory seminars (political theory and philosophy of social science), comparative research design, international security and transnational politics, and public law and institutions.
• Methods training: quantitative methods (statistical analysis, causal inference), qualitative methods (case study design, process tracing, ethnography), and computational approaches when relevant.
• Research workshops: dissertation development seminars, working-paper workshops, and opportunities to present at departmental colloquia.
• Teaching experience: mentored teaching and supervised practicum, preparing students to teach undergraduate courses.
• Dissertation: extended original research under the supervision of a faculty advisor leading to a dissertation that contributes to scholarly literature.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong previous degree in political science or a closely related field (master’s degree or a bachelor’s with substantial honours-level work). Admissions typically assess academic record, letters of recommendation, a statement of research interests, and a writing sample that demonstrates analytical ability and familiarity with scholarly literature.

• Academic background: graduate-level coursework in political science is desirable; applicants with related social-science training may be considered if they show preparedness for doctoral study.
• Research preparation: evidence of proficiency in research methods appropriate to the applicant’s area (quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods) is important.
• Supporting materials: statement of purpose outlining proposed research, three academic or professional references, and a substantial writing sample (such as a thesis chapter or published article).
• Standardised tests: the programme may consider standardised test scores where submitted, but requirements vary; check the department’s admissions webpage for current guidance.
• English language: for applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is normally required in line with university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme pursue diverse careers that draw on deep analytical and research skills. The PhD prepares students for:

• Academic positions in political science and related departments at universities and colleges.
• Research and policy roles in government agencies, international organisations and think tanks.
• Analyst and advisory positions in NGOs, advocacy organisations and foundations.
• Consultancy and research roles in the private sector, including firms that specialise in political risk, public affairs and data analysis.
• Further professional pathways in law, public administration and journalism for those combining doctoral research with professional training.

Why study at Clark University

Clark’s political science programme is embedded within a liberal-arts research university that emphasises interdisciplinary scholarship and social justice. The department is known for close faculty mentoring, small seminar sizes and a collaborative research environment.

• Faculty expertise: faculty work across comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public law and methods, enabling supervision on a wide range of topics.
• Methods and research training: access to methodological workshops, research centres and cross-departmental training that support both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
• Hands-on opportunities: opportunities for involvement in research projects, policy engagement and public-facing scholarship in partnership with local, national and international organisations.
• Funding and professional development: doctoral students typically receive mentorship in grant-writing, conference presentation and teaching, and the department offers competitive funding packages and assistantships in accordance with university practices.
• Location and network: being in Worcester provides proximity to regional academic, governmental and non-profit networks, and the university’s alumni and institutional partnerships offer career and collaborative pathways.