University of Virginia

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theoretical training in international relations with rigorous methodological preparation and a sustained focus on national security issues. Early-stage coursework typically covers core subjects such as theories of international relations, international security, foreign policy analysis, and international political economy. Students also undertake intensive training in research methods, including qualitative methods, quantitative analysis, formal modelling and causal inference, with opportunities to take advanced statistics and computational courses.

After the initial coursework phase, students move to specialised seminars and directed readings on topics such as deterrence and coercion, civil–military relations, nuclear proliferation, terrorism and counterinsurgency, alliance politics, intelligence studies, and regional security (e.g. Eurasia, East Asia, Middle East). Language study and area expertise are encouraged where relevant to dissertation research.

The doctoral sequence culminates in comprehensive examinations that test mastery of theory, methods and field literature, followed by a dissertation proposal, original research and a defended dissertation. Students are expected to produce articles suitable for peer-reviewed journals as part of their progress toward the degree.

Typical modules and activities

• Foundations of International Relations Theory
• International Security Seminar
• Foreign Policy Analysis
• Quantitative Research Design and Methods
• Qualitative Methods and Case Study Research
• Formal Models of Conflict and Cooperation
• Advanced Topics Seminars (e.g. nuclear strategy, intelligence studies)
• Doctoral colloquia and teaching practica

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree, and many have a master's degree in political science, international relations, or a related discipline. Typical successful applicants demonstrate a record of high academic achievement, substantive preparation in international relations and national security, and evidence of research potential.

Required application materials generally include a detailed CV, academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with the department, a writing sample (often a research paper), and academic letters of recommendation. Where relevant, applicants should demonstrate quantitative preparation or a willingness to undertake intensive methods training.

Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university policy. Some research projects may require competence in a relevant foreign language; proficiency expectations will depend on the dissertation topic.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme pursue a range of careers. Many move into tenure-track academic positions in political science and international relations departments, producing both theoretical and empirical research on security issues. Others find roles in policy and research organisations, including national governments, defence and security agencies, international organisations, and think tanks, where they contribute to analysis, intelligence, and policy development.

Additional career paths include positions in consulting firms that specialise in geopolitical risk, international NGOs focused on conflict prevention and humanitarian response, and private-sector roles that require deep country or regional expertise. The programme’s strong methodological training also prepares graduates for data-driven research roles and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Why study at University of Virginia

The University of Virginia offers a PhD environment with close mentorship from faculty whose research spans security studies, foreign policy, and international political economy. Students benefit from interdisciplinary links across the university’s centres and institutes, access to specialised research resources and archives, and a supportive doctoral community offering workshops, funding for research travel, and teaching experience.

Proximity to policy hubs and established networks of alumni and practitioners provides students with opportunities for internships, collaborative research and public engagement. The department emphasises rigorous methods training alongside substantive expertise, preparing graduates for both scholarly impact and practical policy work.