Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Political Science
Purdue’s Political Science PhD combines rigorous methodological training with interdisciplinary research in areas including governance and responsible AI, environmental policy, institutional reform, and political violence. From their first year, students participate in research communities, receive support to present their work, and prepare for academic and applied careers through hands-on research and teaching experience.
Situated within a major technology and research university, Purdue’s Political Science PhD program prepares students to conduct original research, collaborate with faculty and other scholars, and communicate their findings in professional and classroom settings. Students develop independent research projects for academic and applied careers while gaining experience as research and teaching assistants. The department also works to provide each doctoral student with an opportunity to teach independently before completing the program.
Students are admitted directly to the PhD program and select both a major and a minor field. The program offers five fields of study:
- American Politics
- Comparative Politics
- International Relations
- Public Policy
- Research Methodology (minor field only)
The PhD requires coursework, written field examinations, a major-field research paper, professional development activities, and the successful completion and defense of a dissertation.
