PhD International Relations, Politics and History at Loughborough University

Programme overview

The School of Social Sciences and Humanities at Loughborough is home to International Relations, Politics and History. It is a world-leading centre for research and study into many areas of contemporary politics, international relations and history. Our aim is to stimulate innovative research that has the potential to transform academic and public debates.

Faculty: School of Social Sciences and Humanities | Department: International Relations, Politics and History | Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time | Study mode: full-time; part-time | Intake: October, February or July | Location: Loughborough, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Our interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to studying politics, history and international relations means we are widely recognised within our fields. Research themes: War, Peace and Security, Engaged Political Theory, History of Political Culture.

Career pathways

Studying a PhD can pave the way for a diverse range of career paths, as well as nurture skills that are in demand and advanced. It offers you the opportunity to push the boundaries of knowledge, become an expert in a specialised area and provide you with opportunities to work in a range of careers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a relevant discipline. Applicants without a postgraduate qualification will be required to complete research training in tandem with their doctoral programme. Ghana equivalents: first-class 65% / 3.4 GPA, 2:1 57% / 3.0 GPA, 2:2 50% / 2.5 GPA

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). self-funded, full-time, per annum Source

International applicants: GBP 23,100 a year (2026/27). self-funded, full-time, per annum Source

Intake: October, February or July

Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/doctoral-research/

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