University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theoretical training with rigorous methodological skill-building and sustained original research. Early stages typically involve coursework in core topics such as theories of globalization, global political economy, transnational governance, migration and diaspora studies, global development and comparative social policy. Students also take intensive research methods modules covering quantitative analysis, qualitative methods, fieldwork design, mixed methods and advanced statistics or computational approaches as appropriate to their project.

After completing coursework and any required language preparation, students move to comprehensive examinations or portfolio assessment and then to dissertation proposal and independent research. The PhD dissertation is expected to make a substantive contribution to understanding some dimension of globalization — for example, cross-border flows of capital and labour, global governance and regulation, transnational social movements, global health governance, or the local impacts of global supply chains.

Typical seminars and module topics include:

• Theories of Globalization and Modernity
• Global Political Economy and Trade
• Transnational Institutions and Governance
• Migration, Diaspora and Transnationalism
• Global Development and Inequality
• Comparative Research Methods
• Advanced Quantitative Methods and Spatial Analysis
• Qualitative Methods, Ethnography and Fieldwork Techniques
• Research Design, Ethics and Grant Writing

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally hold a master's degree in a relevant discipline such as political science, sociology, international relations, anthropology, development studies, economics or a closely related field. Typical academic requirements include a strong record of undergraduate and postgraduate study, demonstrated research potential, and preparedness for doctoral-level work.

Applications usually require a CV, academic transcripts, a research proposal outlining the intended area of doctoral research, and several academic references. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent evidence where applicable. Some projects may require or benefit from proficiency in a language relevant to the research area.

Candidates with substantial professional experience in international organisations, government, NGOs or the private sector that demonstrates research potential are also considered. Admission is competitive and based on fit with faculty expertise and supervisory capacity.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers that demand deep analytical skills and an understanding of transnational processes. Common pathways include academic positions in universities and research centres, policy analysis and research roles in governments and intergovernmental organisations, programmatic and research posts in NGOs and foundations, analyst and advisory roles in think tanks, and consultancy for private-sector organisations operating across borders.

Other career outcomes include roles in international development agencies, global health institutions, migration and refugee services, corporate social responsibility and sustainability teams, and positions that combine research with public engagement or advocacy. The programme also equips graduates for competitive research fellowships and postdoctoral appointments.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers an interdisciplinary environment that supports large-scale empirical research as well as theoretical innovation. Doctoral students benefit from collaboration across departments and colleges, access to methodological training, and opportunities for funded research and teaching experience. The university's urban setting and regional networks provide practical research sites and connections with public, private and civic organisations.

Supervision is provided by faculty with expertise in comparative and transnational topics, and students can draw on the institution's resources for archival work, data analysis, and fieldwork preparation. The graduate community emphasises professional development, including conference participation, publishing, grant writing and pedagogical training to prepare graduates for diverse academic and non-academic careers.