Department of Politics and International Relations
Why York?
Our friendly PhD community is an intrinsic part of the intellectual life of the Department of Politics and International Relations. We offer a nurturing environment and dedicated support to develop skills and help ideas thrive.
The PhD in Politics is an advanced research degree, awarded on the basis of a thesis and an oral viva examination. The primary purpose of the PhD is the preparation and presentation of a substantial piece of independent and original academic research, completed in three or four years if studying full-time and six years if studying part-time.
Our PhD is designed as a structured, flexible and individual preparation for becoming a professional researcher. It will help you to develop the core and specialised skills of a professional researcher which are highly valued by both academic and non-academic employers.
Each PhD student is supported by expert supervisors throughout the PhD, who provide one-to-one academic advice, mentoring and guidance. Students also benefit from the advice and support of other academic staff in Politics who will be involved in your Thesis Advisory Panel and in overseeing your progression through the PhD.
Research community
Our PhD students are integrated into the Politics Department as research collaborators and colleagues. PhD students are active participants in one or more of our research clusters, which bring together staff and research students. PhD students are also active participants in our cross-disciplinary research centres.
PhD students also benefit from the outstanding research training and professional development that we provide for all our students.
World-recognised research strengths
We welcome research proposals across the full range of politics and international relations. Find out more about our world-leading research across the Politics Department.
Meet our academic staff
Looking for a PhD supervisor? Find out more about our academics and their research.
Current PhD students
Find out about our current PhD students and their research projects.
Postdoc Opportunities
The Department of Politics welcomes outstanding post-doctoral candidates to apply for externally funded schemes in order to undertake a post-doctoral fellowship.
You can find out more information on what fellowships are available on our Postdoc fellowships page