Political Science PhD

Conduct original scholarly research and form advanced pedagogical skills with the Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science at 51¶¯Âþ’s College of Liberal Arts. Students in this 46-credit doctoral program critically examine topics such as global politics,Ìýpolitical behavior, political thoughtÌý²¹²Ô»å the role of the state in the economy in preparation for careers in academia and research.

The Political Science Department's  are nationally recognized in their fields and integrate their current and published research with PhD coursework. Faculty research and expertise focus on American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory, which also serve as primary subject matters in the curriculum.Ìý

PhD students are an integral part of the learning and teaching experience across the Political Science Department. They conduct research, teach courses and work closely with various faculty members and students throughout the department. .Ìý

Students are prepared to pass qualifying examinations in two of the four main political science subject areas.Ìý

Program Format & Curriculum

Students have seven years to complete the Political Science PhD program on a full- or part-time basis, with classes offered after 3:00 p.m. The 46-credit curriculum includes core, methods and research courses along with six electives taken in areas related to the comprehensive exams.Ìý

Core courses include 

  • Introduction to Political TheoryÌý²¹²Ô»å
  • Teaching Methods.

Methods courses include

  • Political Statistics I and II,Ìý
  • Topics in Research Design, and
  • Qualitative Research Methods.Ìý

Research courses include

  • Preliminary Examination Preparation,
  • Pre-Dissertation ResearchÌý²¹²Ô»å 
  • Dissertation Research.

Culminating events for the Political Science PhD include a qualifying examination, which comprises oral and written sections, as well as a dissertation and defense.Ìý

Learn more about the Political Science PhD curriculum.Ìý

Our Community

The College of Liberal Arts at 51¶¯Âþ comprises many academic disciplines and research areas. Now more than ever, an interdisciplinary liberal arts education is invaluable for your future pursuits. It offers the opportunity to further push your drive to create real change in the world, here at 51¶¯Âþ and beyond. In this graduate program, you’ll work closely with diverse faculty members who are highly esteemed in their field and with a curious, passionate community of peers. .Ìý

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with 51¶¯Âþ’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of Philosophy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,105.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,518.00 per credit

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LA-POLS-PHD

Additional Program Information

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