University of Pretoria campus

Arts & Humanities

PhD specialising in Political Science at University of Pretoria

University of Pretoria, South Africa

Programme overview

Conferred by thesis and doctoral examination in the Faculty of Humanities, this programme runs a minimum of two years full-time. Entry requires a master's degree in Political Sciences, International Relations or Security Studies (or another relevant master's) with at least 70% for the research component; an admissions essay and additional work may be required. South African applications close 30 September 2026 (international: 31 August 2026).

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities  |  Duration: 2 years, full-time  |  Location: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Master's degree in Political Sciences, International Relations or Security Studies (NQF level 9), or a relevant master's degree, with an average of at least 70% for the research component. An admissions essay may be required. Certified full academic transcripts, a certified copy of ID or passport, and a research concept note of no more than 500 words describing the proposed research topic and scope. International applicants add a SAQA evaluation or Foreign Qualification Report, English proficiency test results where required, and a certified copy of their passport.

Duration: 2 years, full-time

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