PhD Politics and International Relations (Distance Learning) at Swansea University

Programme overview

Research degree in Politics and International Relations at Swansea University, a substantial supervised project assessed by thesis and viva. Expertise covers the empirical study of politics, international relations and development studies, and the history of political thought, political philosophy and political theory.

What you will study

Original research supervised by active researchers, with a thesis of up to 100,000 words (PhD) or 60,000 words (MPhil) examined by viva. Research groups: Global Drug Policy Observatory, International Studies, Conflict and Security, and Political Analysis and Government. Topics include international security, the international politics of space, transitional justice, aid and development, US foreign policy, democratic theory, devolution, comparative elections and EU politics. Teaching tutorials is possible from year two.

Career pathways

A pathway to academia, or employment in education, government or the private sector.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

MPhil: 2:1 undergraduate degree (or non-UK equivalent). PhD: 2:1 undergraduate degree and a master's degree with at least a Merit overall; UK first-class honours graduates without a master's are considered individually. English language: IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.5, or recognised equivalent. Admissions decisions may also take account of the standard of the research proposal or synopsis, performance at interview, competition for places and relevant professional experience. One academic reference is required before the application goes to the faculty research admissions tutor.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). PhD distance learning, 3-year route tuition, year 1; start Oct 2026 to Jul 2027 (2027/28 starts: see notes) Source

International applicants: GBP 20,800 a year (2026/27). PhD distance learning, 3-year route tuition, year 1; start Oct 2026 to Jul 2027 Source

Intake: October 2026

Duration: 3 years (distance learning)

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