Doctoral students in the Department of Political Science focus on one of five primary areas of study and one of six secondary areas of study:
The American Politics field is focused on the system of government, political institutions, and political behavior in the United States. Our departmental strengths in this field include minority politics, judicial politics, campaigns and elections, and state and local politics.
The Comparative Politics field examines similarities and differences in political institutions, political behavior, and forms of government around the world. Our departmental strengths in this field include African politics, comparative political economy, authoritarian regimes, and political corruption.
The International Relations field is focused on interaction between countries, international law and institutions, and causes and consequences of conflict. Our departmental strengths in this field include the study of conflict, civil war, and international law.
The Public Policy field examines the processes of policy development and implementation, and the ways policy design can impact politics. Our departmental strengths in this field include education policy, state and local policy, and social welfare policy.
The Political Philosophy field explores democratic theory and political thought. Our strengths in this field include classical political philosophy and American political thought.
The Research Methods secondary field applies mathematical models and statistical methods to build and test theories and conduct empirical analysis. Our strengths in this field include text analysis, multilevel models, social networks, and Bayesian statistics.
The doctoral degree is generally undertaken by students wishing to teach political science and government at the college level and by those seeking professional careers in political and social research. Special attention is given at the doctoral level to intensive training in political research.
Additional information about the requirements may be found in the Academic Programs Catalog on the Office of the Registrar website.
Visit the Political Science website to learn more about some of our policies and procedures to assist you as you prepare an application for admission.
LEARN MORE