PhD Politics and International Relations at University of Southampton

Programme overview

We supervise research across a range of areas, from political science and philosophy to public policy and global politics. Join a tight knit group of scholars exploring the latest events, theories, systems and policies shaping our world. Our research is internationally recognised for its impact in a diverse range of areas from the governance of oceans to civic participation through citizen assemblies. You'll have the opportunity to pursue your own research interests. We organise our research around 3 themes that represent our core strengths:

Faculty: Social Sciences | Department: Politics and international relations | Duration: 2 to 4 years full-time; 3 to 7 years part-time | Study mode: full-time/part-time | Location: Southampton, England, United Kingdom

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

You’ll need to have a: 2:1 undergraduate honours degree a master of science at merit in a relevant subject satisfactory interview If English is not your first language, you'll need an IELTS minimum level of 7.0 with a 6.5 in writing, reading, speaking and listening.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). UK fee, full-time (also applies to Horizon Europe associated-country applicants). Part-time: UK £2,619, international £10,050 a year. Source

International applicants: GBP 20,100 a year (2026/27). International fee, full-time. Source

Duration: 2 to 4 years full-time; 3 to 7 years part-time

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

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