The Stanford University PhD program in Political Science is a prestigious and highly competitive graduate program that offers students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and academic inquiry. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary approaches and innovative methodologies, the program provides students with a comprehensive education in the field of political science, preparing them for careers in academia, research, and public policy. The PhD program in Political Science at Stanford University is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the theoretical and empirical foundations of political science, as well as the skills and expertise necessary to conduct original research and make meaningful contributions to the field.
Research Opportunities and Specializations
The Stanford PhD program in Political Science offers a wide range of research opportunities and specializations, allowing students to tailor their coursework and research to their individual interests and career goals. The program is organized into several subfields, including American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Economy, and Political Theory. Students can also pursue interdisciplinary research and coursework in fields such as economics, sociology, philosophy, and history. The program’s faculty includes renowned scholars and experts in their respective fields, providing students with access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise.
Faculty and Research Areas
The faculty in the Stanford PhD program in Political Science are actively engaged in research and scholarship, and are recognized for their contributions to the field. Some of the current research areas and faculty expertise include: democratic governance, international security, political economy, and social movements. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members on research projects, and to develop their own research interests and agendas. The program also provides students with access to a range of research resources and facilities, including the Stanford Institute for Research in the Social Sciences and the Center for International Security and Cooperation.
| Subfield | Description |
|---|---|
| American Politics | Examines the institutions, processes, and policies of American government and politics |
| Comparative Politics | Compares and analyzes the political systems, institutions, and processes of different countries and regions |
| International Relations | Studies the interactions and relationships between states, international organizations, and non-state actors in the global arena |
| Political Economy | Examines the intersection of politics and economics, including the role of economic factors in shaping political outcomes and the impact of political institutions on economic performance |
| Political Theory | Explores the fundamental questions and concepts of political philosophy, including justice, legitimacy, and democracy |
Admissions and Funding
Admission to the Stanford PhD program in Political Science is highly competitive, and applicants are expected to have a strong academic record, a clear research agenda, and a demonstrated commitment to the field. The program receives a large number of applications each year, and only a small number of students are admitted. The admissions committee considers a range of factors, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, research statement, and GRE scores. Students who are admitted to the program are typically provided with full funding, including a stipend, tuition, and health insurance. Funding is provided for a minimum of five years, and students are expected to complete their degree within six years.
Funding Opportunities
In addition to the funding provided by the department, students in the Stanford PhD program in Political Science may also be eligible for a range of external funding opportunities, including fellowships, grants, and research awards. These opportunities can provide students with additional financial support, as well as recognition and prestige in the field. Some examples of external funding opportunities include the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, the Fulbright Fellowship, and the Stanford University Graduate Research Opportunities award.
- National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship: provides up to three years of funding for graduate students in STEM fields
- Fulbright Fellowship: provides funding for graduate students to pursue research and study abroad
- Stanford University Graduate Research Opportunities award: provides funding for graduate students to pursue research and academic projects
What are the admission requirements for the Stanford PhD program in Political Science?
+The admission requirements for the Stanford PhD program in Political Science include a bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, research statement, and GRE scores. Applicants are also expected to have a strong academic record, a clear research agenda, and a demonstrated commitment to the field.
What kind of funding opportunities are available to students in the Stanford PhD program in Political Science?
+Students in the Stanford PhD program in Political Science are typically provided with full funding, including a stipend, tuition, and health insurance. Additionally, students may be eligible for external funding opportunities, such as fellowships, grants, and research awards.
What are the research areas and faculty expertise in the Stanford PhD program in Political Science?
+The faculty in the Stanford PhD program in Political Science have expertise in a range of research areas, including democratic governance, international security, political economy, and social movements. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members on research projects, and to develop their own research interests and agendas.
