University of Lancaster

What you'll study

The PhD programme is centred on an independent research project, developed and delivered under the guidance of specialist supervisors. Students undertake a sustained investigation that contributes new knowledge to a defined area of politics — examples include electoral behaviour, political theory, security and conflict, public policy, governance, European and comparative politics, and international political economy.

Alongside the thesis, students take part in a structured programme of research training. Typical elements include:

• Research design and methods training (qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods approaches)
• Theoretical and literature seminars relevant to the student’s topic
• Professional development workshops: publishing, grant-writing, teaching and presentation skills
• Regular supervisory meetings and progress reviews (including upgrade from MPhil where applicable)
• Participation in departmental research seminars and reading groups

Students are expected to present work-in-progress at internal seminars and to engage with interdisciplinary centres and research clusters across the university. Facilities include access to the university’s social science data services, specialist library collections and computing resources to support empirical and theoretical work.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a strong master’s degree (for example MA, MSc or MRes) in politics or a closely related discipline. In some cases, candidates with an excellent undergraduate degree and substantial research experience may be considered. All applicants must submit a clear research proposal outlining the research question, methodology, and its contribution to the field, together with academic references and a writing sample.

Selection is based on the quality and feasibility of the proposed project, availability of appropriate supervision within the department, and the candidate’s academic record. International applicants will need to demonstrate proficiency in English in accordance with university regulations.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Politics go on to a variety of careers. Common destinations include:

• Academic posts: lecturing, postdoctoral research and continued research in universities
• Think tanks and policy research institutes, conducting evidence-based analysis and producing policy briefs
• National and local government roles in policy development, analysis and advisory positions
• International organisations, NGOs and development agencies engaged in governance, conflict resolution and public administration
• Media, consultancy and strategic communications where deep subject knowledge and research skills are required

The programme’s emphasis on independent research, methodological rigour and communication skills prepares graduates for roles that demand critical analysis, project management and the ability to convey complex ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Why study at University of Lancaster

Lancaster’s Department of Politics offers a supportive doctoral environment with experienced supervisors across a broad range of political research areas. The department encourages interdisciplinary collaboration through research centres and links across the university, enabling candidates to draw on expertise in sociology, history, law, spatial analysis and data science.

Doctoral students benefit from a comprehensive researcher development programme, regular departmental seminars and a lively postgraduate community within Lancaster’s collegiate setting. The university’s research infrastructure — including library resources, data services and specialist software — supports both qualitative and quantitative projects. Prospective students should contact potential supervisors to discuss fit and supervision arrangements before applying.