A PhD in Political Science is an advanced degree that provides students with a deep understanding of the political processes, institutions, and theories that shape our world. The field of Political Science encompasses a wide range of subfields, including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, and more. Students pursuing a PhD in Political Science typically specialize in one of these subfields and conduct original research in their area of interest.
The PhD program in Political Science typically involves coursework in advanced theory and research methods, as well as a comprehensive examination to test the student's knowledge of the field. The heart of the program is the dissertation, which is a substantial research project that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct original research and make a significant contribution to the field of Political Science.
PhD students in Political Science often work closely with faculty members, collaborating on research projects and publications. They also have opportunities to present their research at conferences and to participate in professional networks and associations.
Upon completion of the PhD program, graduates can pursue academic careers as professors and researchers, or they may choose to work in government, non-profit organizations, or the private sector. Political Science PhDs are in high demand in a variety of fields, including public policy, international relations, law, journalism, and consulting.
Course Name | PhD in Political Science |
Course Level | Doctoral Degree |
Full-Form | Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science |
Examination type | Year-wise course |
Course Duration | 3 year to 5 year |
Eligibility Criteria | Allied Post Graduation with around 60% and academic soundness as mandated by the admitting university |
Admission Process | Merit-Based and Application-Based |
Top Recruiting arenas | Education Institutions, Accountancy, Media, Entertainment, Civil Services, Political firms, Government sector, Banking, Public Utilities, etc. |
Job Positions | Public Relation Specialist, Journalist, Professor, Lecturer in Political Science, Political Scientist, Political Research Associate, Political Writer, etc. |
Some highlights of pursuing a PhD in Political Science include:
Advanced knowledge and expertise: A PhD in Political Science provides students with advanced knowledge and expertise in the field of Political Science, enabling them to make significant contributions to the discipline.
Specialization in a subfield: Students can specialize in a subfield of Political Science, such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, or others, allowing them to develop expertise in a particular area of interest.
Original research: The heart of the PhD program is the dissertation, which involves conducting original research and making a significant contribution to the field of Political Science.
Collaboration with faculty: PhD students in Political Science have opportunities to collaborate with faculty members on research projects, publications, and conferences, gaining valuable experience and building professional networks.
Preparation for academic and non-academic careers: Graduates of a Political Science PhD program are well-prepared for academic careers as professors and researchers, as well as non-academic careers in government, non-profit organizations, the private sector, and more.
Interdisciplinary approach: Political Science PhD programs often offer an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on fields such as economics, sociology, psychology, and history to provide a broader understanding of political processes and institutions.
Research Opportunities: PG candidates tend to have a passion and interest in India's politics, economy and its development. Therefore, a PhD offers extensive research opportunities and expertise in their respective fields.
Scope of Funded Projects: Ph.D. students in political science are likely to receive government and non-government funding to conduct their research.
Good CTC per year: A PG Political Science graduate usually has a low CTC per year due to lack of research skills and expertise. However, Ph.D. holders in political science typically earn a higher CTC of around 1 million yen per year as they have diverse research skills and expertise related to politics and the Indian economy.
Study Abroad Opportunities: These Ph.D. students earn one of the most prestigious degrees in the field and continually gain knowledge of the politics of many countries, giving them an edge over many others. There are opportunities to be posted or work in the country.
Opportunities to work in polling agencies: These candidates are experts in politics in India and other countries, so there is a possibility of them working in polling agencies that decide the leadership of some countries.
The admission process for a PhD in Political Science varies by institution. Some institutions may require students to take a qualifying exam to demonstrate their knowledge of Political Science, while others may not. It is important to check the admission requirements of the specific institution or program you are interested in.
Admission to a PhD program in Political Science is typically competitive, and applicants must meet specific requirements. Generally, applicants are expected to have completed a master's degree in Political Science or a related field with a high GPA. In addition, applicants must submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and writing samples. Some programs may require GRE scores or other standardized test scores.
The eligibility criteria for a PhD in Political Science vary by institution. Typically, students must have completed a master's degree in Political Science or a related field with a high GPA. In addition, applicants must demonstrate their research skills and their ability to conduct independent research.
The duration of a PhD program in Political Science typically ranges from four to seven years, depending on the program and the student's progress. Students must complete coursework, pass a comprehensive exam, and complete a dissertation to earn their degree.
Admission to a PhD program in Political Science is typically based on a combination of factors, including academic achievement, research experience, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and other materials submitted by the applicant. Some programs may also consider standardized test scores, such as GRE scores, as part of the selection criteria.
To apply for a PhD program in Political Science, students must typically submit an online application and include all required materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and writing samples. Some programs may require standardized test scores or other materials, so it is important to check the specific admission requirements of the program you are interested in.
The application form and process for a PhD program in Political Science vary by institution. Typically, students must submit an online application, which may require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, writing samples, and other materials. Some programs may require standardized test scores, such as GRE scores. It is important to check the specific admission requirements of the program you are interested in.
The application fee for a PhD program in Political Science varies by institution. Typically, the fee ranges from $50 to $100, but it may be waived for certain applicants or in certain circumstances.
The syllabus for a PhD program in Political Science varies by institution and subfield. Generally, students are required to take advanced coursework in political theory, research methods, and their chosen subfield of Political Science. In addition, students must complete a comprehensive exam and a dissertation.
Graduates of a PhD program in Political Science are well-prepared for academic and non-academic careers. The average salary for a Political Science professor is around $90,000 per year, but salaries vary by institution and experience. Non-academic careers in government, non-profit organizations, the private sector, and consulting are also available to Political Science PhDs, with salaries ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 per year.
Job Profile | Job Description |
Political Scientist | Responsible for making the political reports with reference to the arguments and developments seen in Political |
Market Trend Research Analysts | He is responsible for investigating a variety of data on the basis of three basic questionnaires like What, Who, and How. |
Professor | Responsible for educating and training the students in the discipline of Political Science dealing with politics in India. |
Public Relations Specialists | He is responsible for creating and promoting awareness of the brand, and company for which he/she is assigned to. |
Survey Researchers | They are primarily assigned to create the surveys based on the data gathered/available to analyse it. |
Research Analysts | He is capable of analyzing the designated data in order to devise correct/factual information out of it. |
Graduates of a PhD program in Political Science have a variety of career opportunities. In academia, they can work as professors, researchers, or administrators. Outside of academia, they can work in government, non-profit organizations, the private sector, and consulting. Political Science PhDs have careers in fields such as public policy, international relations, law, journalism, and more.
Further Research | PhD Political Science candidates can take part in further research both in India and abroad. |
Political analysts and leadership | Since the political natures and economies of Indian and other countries are dealt under this discipline, the doctorate holders gain immense knowledge and skills related to leadership that might trigger and aid them in becoming a political analyst, and sometimes even political leaders in future. |
Scope for Civil Services in India | Since plenty of historical events pertaining to Indian Economy and Politics are gained through PhD Political Science, the candidates could fancy their chances to crack the Civil Services exams like UPSC because of few similarities in the syllabus of it. |
Economic Strategist | Any country strives to improve its economy in some way or other. Thus, it creates the demand for PhD Political Science holders all over the globe. |
Market requirements | PhD in Political Science become expertise in the majority of the top economies through their research experience, thus it becomes usual for them to get placed in the market trend investigating firms. |
The top colleges for a PhD in Political Science vary by institution and ranking. Some top-ranked programs include Harvard University, Stanford University, Princeton University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and University of California, Berkeley. However, it is important to choose a program that fits your interests and career goals.
PhD in Admission Process
Application for the entrance exam
Result declaration
Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
Provisional registration for pre-Ph.D. course work classes
Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by the University
Course work examination
Result declaration of coursework
Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
A registration letter shall be issued
Research work started by scholar
6 progress reports shall be submitted
Soft copy thesis submit
plagiarism report check by the university
Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis, 3 copies of the bound thesis shall be submitted
Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by the University, Degree Awarded.
Documents Required
FAQs About Ph.D. Program
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.
NOTE:- Students are requested to note that their application will not be considered for admission if the above certificates are not enclosed with their application.
Given below are few of the important highlights of the program.
Program Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science |
Program Level | Doctorate Degree Courses |
Duration of the Program | 3 Years |
Examination Type | Year |
Eligibility | Postgraduate Degree in a Relevant Discipline With Minimum 55% Marks ( 50% for SC/ST Candidates ) |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam and Merit Based |
Average Program Fee | Rs. 3 Lakh - Rs. 4 Lakh |
Syllabus of Management as prescribed by various Universities and Colleges.
Paper Code | Subjects of Study |
Mentioned below are some states in India that offer the program.