Program Overview
The PhD in Politics and International Relations at the University of Aberdeen equips students with research skills and knowledge to delve into critical global challenges. Through coursework, independent research, and a PhD thesis, students deepen their understanding of politics and international relations, preparing them for careers in academia, government, and beyond. The program offers a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, with internationally renowned researchers providing guidance and mentorship.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The PhD in Politics and International Relations at the University of Aberdeen offers an opportunity to delve into the critical challenges of the modern world through rigorous research. This program prepares individuals for careers in academia, government, international organizations, and research consultancies.
Key objectives of the program:
- To equip students with the necessary research skills and knowledge to successfully complete a PhD thesis.
- To deepen understanding of key issues in politics and international relations, including democracy, conflict, security, and global governance.
- To provide students with a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for research and professional development.
Program structure:
The PhD in Politics and International Relations is a research-based program that typically takes 3-4 years to complete. Students are required to complete a range of coursework, including:
- Research methods
- Theory and methodology
- Advanced topics in politics and international relations
- Thesis writing Students also conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member and write a PhD thesis of 80,000-100,000 words.
Modules:
The specific modules offered in the program vary depending on the student's research interests and the availability of faculty expertise. However, some examples of modules offered in recent years include:
- Global Political Economy
- International Security Studies
- European Integration
- Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict
- Political Violence and Terrorism
- Comparative Politics
- International Law
- Development Studies
- Environmental Politics
Assessment:
The assessment of the PhD in Politics and International Relations is conducted through a variety of methods, including:
- Coursework essays and presentations
- Qualifying examinations
- Thesis proposal defense
- Thesis examination
Teaching:
The program is taught by a team of internationally-renowned researchers who are experts in their respective fields. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials, and individual supervision. The program also provides opportunities for students to engage in research seminars, workshops, and conferences.
Careers:
Graduates of the PhD in Politics and International Relations have gone on to pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including:
- Academia
- Government
- International organizations
- Research consultancies
- NGOs
- Journalism
- Private sector
- The program is offered both full-time and part-time.
- Funding opportunities are available for both UK and international students.
- The program has a strong record of research publications and citations.
University of Aberdeen
Overview:
The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.Student Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
Participation in various sports teams and leagues.Societies and Clubs:
Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.Events and Activities:
Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.Global Reputation:
It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.Beautiful Campus:
The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.Vibrant City:
Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Academic Programs:
The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.Postgraduate Taught Degrees:
Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.Postgraduate Research Degrees:
PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.Online Learning:
Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context mentions some advantages, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons to study at the University of Aberdeen.Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:1 standard from a recognised university or body.
International Students (Outside the EU):
The entry requirements for international students are the same as for EU home students. However, they must also provide:
- Evidence of English language proficiency: This can be demonstrated by achieving a score of at least 7.0 in IELTS, or equivalent in another recognised English language test.
For all applicants:
- Applicants to the PhD and MRes programs must provide a detailed research proposal and two academic references from their most recent academic institution.
- Applicants are strongly advised to contact potential supervisors before making an application.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants from countries where English is not the official language must demonstrate English language proficiency.
- Acceptable evidence of proficiency includes:
- A score of at least 7.0 in IELTS (Academic)
- A score of at least 580 in the paper-based TOEFL test
- A score of at least 237 in the computer-based TOEFL test
- A score of at least 90 in the TOEFL internet-based test
