Politics and International Studies

Entry requirements

We normally require a 2.1 bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) plus a Merit-level Masters degree in Political Science or a related discipline. We also require a minimum of one reference. In exceptional cases we may accept applicants who do not meet these criteria if they show evidence of a strong Masters degree and/or appropriate level of relevant work experience. International applicants should also see Doctoral School English language requirements

Months of entry

September

Course content

PhD Degree Politics and International Studies accepts students for research work leading to a PhD. The primary aim of the PhD programme is to train students to design, research and write a successful doctoral thesis. Those who have completed the doctorate will be familiar with the conceptual and methodological aspects of political research and qualified as experts in their field.

To be considered for entry into the PhD programme, applicants must possess a good advanced degree in Politics equivalent in level and content to the Department's MSc, although applications from individuals with related degrees in cognate disciplines will also be considered Guidelines for research proposals.

Admission takes place on a rolling basis. The application cycle opens in November and closes on 30 June for entry in October. Applicants also wishing to be considered for a SOAS scholarship or an ESRC studentship should refer to the research scholarships information for the deadlines.

The primary building block of the PhD programme is the relationship between student and supervisor. Students are admitted on the basis of the expressed willingness of at least one member of staff to serve as the main supervisor for the student's project.

Why study PhD Degree Politics and International Studies at SOAS?

• we’re ranked 5th in the UK for Politics, as well as 3rd globally for academic reputation (QS World University Rankings 2022)
• SOAS itself is unique — our global student body, multi-disciplinary approach, critical and questioning attitude moves well beyond the focus on basic ‘skills training’ found in so many other programmes
• research students have exclusive access to the facilities and services offered by SOAS’ Doctoral School
• research supervision — you're assigned members of staff qualified to supervise your work
• research training — you will benefift from being embedded in our structured training programme during the first year, attending courses dealing with research design, theory and methods

Department specialisms

Identity and modernity; state and society; international politics and regional relations in Asia and Africa; politics and development.

Information for international students

For details, including English language requirements, please see SOAS website

Fees and funding

For details of postgraduate fees, please see SOAS website