Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

The PhD in Political Science and Government emphasises rigorous training in research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, and substantive specialisations in fields such as American politics, public policy, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and state and local government. The programme typically combines coursework, advanced methods seminars, comprehensive examinations, supervised dissertation research, and opportunities for conference presentation and publication.

• Core coursework: Advanced political science theory, research design, and graduate-level quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Specialist seminars: Seminars in areas such as American politics and institutions, public administration and policy, comparative government, international politics, political behaviour, and political thought.
• Research methods: Sequence of methodology courses covering statistics for social sciences, causal inference, survey and experimental design, and qualitative techniques such as case study and process-tracing.
• Comprehensive assessments: Written and/or oral exams to demonstrate mastery of core and specialist knowledge before advancing to dissertation status.
• Dissertation: Independent, original research under faculty supervision that contributes to scholarship in the chosen subfield; includes proposal, prospectus defence, research, writing and final defence.
• Professional development: Teaching practicum, opportunities to serve as teaching or research assistants, and encouragement to present at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed outlets.

Entry requirements

Admission is selective and intended for candidates prepared for doctoral-level research. Typical requirements include:

• Academic qualifications: A relevant master's degree in political science or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Applicants with a strong bachelor’s record and substantial research experience may also be considered.
• Academic record: Evidence of strong academic performance in prior graduate study, demonstrated by official transcripts.
• Application materials: A curriculum vitae, statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with faculty expertise, a writing sample (such as a term paper or master’s thesis), and contact information for academic referees who can comment on scholarly potential.
• Standardised tests: GRE scores may be requested or considered as part of the application in some cases; applicants should check current departmental guidance for test expectations.
• Interview: An interview or conversation with potential faculty advisers may be part of the selection process to assess fit and research readiness.
• English language proficiency: For applicants whose first language is not English, demonstrated proficiency through recognised tests or other evidence of English-language ability as required by the university.
• Funding considerations: Many admitted students are considered for graduate assistantships or fellowships; applicants should review departmental information about funding, teaching expectations, and application procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue careers across academia, government, the non-profit sector, and the private sector. Common career paths include:

• University and college faculty positions in political science and related disciplines, including teaching and research roles.
• Research and policy analyst positions in federal, state and local government agencies, with particular access to state-level opportunities given the programme’s location in a state capital.
• Roles in think tanks, advocacy organisations and non-governmental organisations conducting policy research, evaluation and public outreach.
• Positions in public affairs, political consulting, campaign strategy, and legislative staff work.
• Research and data-analytic roles in the private sector, including market research, polling firms and policy consultancy.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a doctoral environment with focused faculty mentorship and opportunities to engage directly with state and regional policymakers in Montgomery, the state capital. The department provides personalised supervision, early opportunities to teach and to work as research assistants, and an emphasis on applied and comparative research that connects scholarship to public affairs.

Students benefit from small cohort sizes, close interaction with faculty whose research spans American politics, public policy, comparative politics and international relations, and access to institutional resources for research training and grant development. The programme’s local and regional connections create pathways to internships, practicum placements and collaborations with government agencies, NGOs and community organisations, enhancing practical experience alongside academic preparation.