PhD Peace Studies and Political Science at University of Notre Dame

Programme overview

The Peace Studies and Political Science program provides students with the theoretical and methodological tools of political science to answer these and related questions. Students research a variety of topics, including the causes of violent conflict; the role of international actors, law and peace accords in ending civil and international wars; the possibilities of justice and reconciliation after mass violence; the relation between politics, religion and peace; and the role of structural factors such as climate change in peace and conflict. The Kroc Institute also hosts the Peace Accord Matrix, an interactive database featuring data on comprehensive peace agreements signed since 1989, which is increasingly being used as a tool in peace negotiations around the globe. Last updated: 09/24/2025 Minimum residency: 3 years.

Faculty: The Graduate School | Department: Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies | Study mode: full-time | Location: Notre Dame, IN, United States

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Graduate School application materials: GRE General Test required; TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for non-native speakers of English; Curriculum vitae; Statement of intent; Three letters of recommendation; at least two must be an academic reference; Writing sample(s) - refer to program site for details; Unofficial transcripts from each post-secondary institution required at the time of application. (Official transcript showing conferral of a bachelor's degree due upon enrollment.) Application deadline: Dec. 1.

USD 69,110 a year (2026-27). Graduate School full-time tuition for 2026-27, the rate the page lists for Graduate School programmes generally (not a programme-specific schedule). Excludes technology ($250), health centre access ($150) and student activity ($100) fees. Source

Notre Dame Law School admits new Juris Doctor students for the fall term only.

JSD applications are submitted through the LSAC online system and are due March 15; supporting documents are due April 1.

Apply through the official page: https://graduateschool.nd.edu/admissions/

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