University of York

What you'll study

The PhD in Politics is a research-focused programme in which you undertake an extended piece of original research under the guidance of expert supervisors. You will develop a research proposal with supervisory input, carry out sustained empirical and/or theoretical work, and produce a thesis that contributes new knowledge to your chosen field.

Alongside your thesis research, you will take part in a programme of doctoral training to build methodological and professional skills. Typical training and curricular elements include:

• Advanced research methods (qualitative and quantitative techniques, mixed methods, computational approaches where relevant)
• Seminars on research design, ethics and dissemination
• Subject-focused research seminars across political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public policy, political economy and security studies
• Opportunities for teaching and supervising undergraduates as part of professional development
• Workshops on academic writing, publishing, grant-writing and knowledge exchange
• Interdisciplinary engagement with neighbouring fields such as sociology, economics, history and law

Throughout the degree you are expected to present work-in-progress at departmental seminars and to engage with broader research networks across the university. The final submission is a doctoral thesis judged by internal and external examiners and typically requires an oral viva voce examination.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally hold a relevant Master's degree with a substantial research component (for example an MPhil, MRes or MA with dissertation) and a good honours degree (upper second class or equivalent) in politics or a related social science discipline. Applicants with strong professional research experience or equivalent scholarly publications may also be considered.

Your application should include a clear research proposal outlining the question(s) you intend to address, an indication of methodology, a bibliography and names of potential supervisors where possible. You will also need academic references and a CV showing relevant experience.

As the programme is taught and examined in English, international applicants are required to demonstrate competence in English; the department will accept recognised English language qualifications or other evidence of proficiency. Candidates may be interviewed as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates from the PhD in Politics pursue a wide range of careers. Many move into academic posts (postdoctoral fellowships, lecturing and research positions) while others apply their research skills in policy and practice, including:

• Government departments and public sector policy roles
• Think tanks and research institutes
• International organisations and non-governmental organisations
• Political consultancy, polling and public affairs
• Journalism, media and communications
• Data analysis, evaluation and evidence-based consultancy

The training you receive in research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, critical analysis and communication is highly transferable and valued across the public, private and third sectors.

Why study at University of York

The Department of Politics at the University of York offers a supportive research environment with experienced supervisors working across a broad range of subfields. You will benefit from regular research seminars, methods workshops and opportunities to collaborate with interdisciplinary research centres and colleagues across the university.

York provides comprehensive doctoral training and professional development, including opportunities to gain teaching experience and to engage in knowledge exchange with policy and third-sector partners. The university's library collections and research facilities support advanced study, and the campus environment and collegial postgraduate community make it straightforward to build networks and find peer support during your doctoral studies.

Whether your aim is a career in academia or to apply high-level research skills in policy, public service or the private sector, the PhD in Politics at York is structured to develop the intellectual independence, methodological rigour and professional capabilities required for those roles.