At a glance
120 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 6 students per yearAverage annual intake
- Full funding for all admitted studentsFunding
- 64 graduate-level units requiredCoursework
- Mastery in 5 of 6 fields, high competence in 2Field Specialization
- Emphasis on original research and dissertationResearch Focus
The PhD program in Political Science at Boston University offers a rigorous and supportive academic environment for doctoral candidates. This highly selective program admits an average of six students annually, all of whom receive full funding. The program focuses on training students in advanced research and teaching methodologies, preparing them for careers in academia, research institutions, and government agencies. Students benefit from a diverse faculty community across various departments and access to extensive resources within the Boston area.
Curriculum
The program requires 64 graduate-level units. Students entering from a Boston University MA program may transfer credits with approval. Course selection is guided by the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) and can include offerings from other departments like economics, history, mathematics, philosophy, and sociology.
- Year 1
- Approaches to the Study of American PoliticsCAS PO 711
- Approaches to the Study of Comparative PoliticsCAS PO 751
- Approaches to the Study of International RelationsCAS PO 771
- Approaches to the Study of Political TheoryCAS PO 791
- Years 2-3
- Quantitative Research MethodsCAS PO 841
- Qualitative Approaches to the Study of Political ScienceCAS PO 842
- Techniques in Political Analysis: Maximum Likelihood EstimationCAS PO 843
- Methods for Causal InferenceCAS PO 844
- Research WorkshopCAS PO 903/904
- Professional Development for PhD Candidates in Political ScienceCAS PO 702
Careers
The program prepares students for academic and research careers, equipping them with the skills necessary for positions in colleges and universities, research institutions, and government agencies.
- University Professor
- Researcher
- Government Agency Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Political Science program?
- Applicants must have a Bachelor of Arts or Master of Arts degree. While there is no general foreign language requirement, proficiency in a foreign language may be necessary for your research.
- Is there funding available for PhD students in Political Science?
- Yes, all admitted PhD students receive full funding, including a full tuition waiver and support. This funding is awarded automatically, and no separate application is required.
- How long does the PhD program take to complete?
- The program requires 64 graduate-level units, and students typically complete their studies over several years, focusing on coursework, research, and dissertation.
- What is the application deadline for the PhD in Political Science?
- The application period typically opens in Fall and closes in early Winter for Fall admission of the following year.
- What are the career prospects after completing the PhD in Political Science?
- The program prepares graduates for academic and research careers, including roles as University Professors, Researchers, and Government Agency Analysts.
- How selective is the PhD in Political Science program?
- The program is highly selective, admitting an average of only six students annually.
Entry requirements
BA or MAEntering students must possess a Bachelor of Arts or Master of Arts degree.
While there is no general foreign language requirement, students whose research necessitates proficiency in a foreign language are encouraged to acquire this competence before defending their PhD proposal.
Fees
Tuition (international)Full funding provided to all PhD students.
Tuition (home)Full funding provided to all PhD students.
LivingNot specified. As all admitted PhD students receive full funding, living expenses are likely covered.
The School of Theology at Boston University states it has the lowest cost of tuition of any graduate program at Boston University and offers full funding to PhD students.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic prerequisites and understand the program's structure and expectations.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any other required documents. International students may need to provide English proficiency test scores.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the Boston University Graduate School of Arts & Sciences admissions portal.
4. Await Admission DecisionAdmissions decisions are typically released after the application review period.
Scholarships
PhD Program FundingFull funding
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Political Science program?
+
Applicants must have a Bachelor of Arts or Master of Arts degree. While there is no general foreign language requirement, proficiency in a foreign language may be necessary for your research.
Is there funding available for PhD students in Political Science?
+
Yes, all admitted PhD students receive full funding, including a full tuition waiver and support. This funding is awarded automatically, and no separate application is required.
How long does the PhD program take to complete?
+
The program requires 64 graduate-level units, and students typically complete their studies over several years, focusing on coursework, research, and dissertation.
What is the application deadline for the PhD in Political Science?
+
The application period typically opens in Fall and closes in early Winter for Fall admission of the following year.
What are the career prospects after completing the PhD in Political Science?
+
The program prepares graduates for academic and research careers, including roles as University Professors, Researchers, and Government Agency Analysts.
How selective is the PhD in Political Science program?
+
The program is highly selective, admitting an average of only six students annually.