University of Kansas

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines disciplinary breadth with intensive methodological and substantive training. Core coursework typically covers political theory, institutions and behaviour in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and advanced research methods. Students pursue seminars that develop expertise in a chosen subfield, supported by coursework in statistics, formal theory, qualitative methods, or experimental design.

• Year 1–2: foundational seminars, methodological sequence, and directed readings to build a programme of study and preliminary language or area competencies where relevant.
• Comprehensive/qualifying examinations: written and/or oral exams assess mastery of the major field(s) and readiness for independent research.
• Dissertation phase: once admitted to candidacy, students focus on original research under the supervision of a faculty advisor, culminating in a doctoral dissertation and an oral defence.
• Additional training: many students gain teaching experience through graduate instructor roles and may participate in collaborative research centres or practicum opportunities.

Typical seminar topics and modules include:

• Advanced quantitative methods and applied statistics
• Comparative political institutions and processes
• American political development and public policy
• International security, international political economy and foreign policy
• Normative political theory and ethics
• Research design, causal inference and experimental methods

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and based on demonstrated academic potential and fit with departmental strengths. Competitive applicants usually hold a relevant master's degree or an honours bachelor's degree with strong academic performance. Applicants should submit the following materials:

• Academic transcripts showing prior university performance
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with faculty expertise
• A writing sample that demonstrates research ability and scholarly writing
• Letters of recommendation, typically from academic referees
• A curriculum vitae with relevant academic and professional experience

The department reviews the whole application holistically. Where provided, standardised test scores (such as the GRE) may be considered, but policies on tests vary and applicants should check the department's admissions guidance. International applicants may need to provide proof of English language proficiency according to university requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue a range of career paths across academia, government, non-profit and private sectors. Common outcomes include:

• Tenure-track academic positions in political science, public policy, and related disciplines
• Research roles at think tanks, policy institutes and NGOs focused on governance, development, security and public policy analysis
• Analyst or advisory positions in government agencies, international organisations and multilateral institutions
• Consultancy roles in research firms and organisations that demand advanced quantitative and qualitative research skills
• Positions in public affairs, advocacy, and law—often following additional professional training

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers doctoral students a collegial and research-active department with faculty strengths across major subfields of political science and robust methodological training. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaborations and campus resources such as the Dole Institute of Politics, research centres with regional and area studies expertise, and extensive library resources.

Doctoral students typically receive mentorship from faculty with active research agendas, opportunities for funded graduate assistantships, and professional development support for teaching and conference presentation. The department's location in Lawrence provides a supportive academic community with proximity to regional policy networks and a manageable campus environment for sustained research productivity.