International affairs and relations programs examine politics and policies, both domestic and international. Get information about the requirements to earn a doctorate, the classes offered in the program and career options.
What are the Requirements for a Ph.D. in International Affairs and Relations?
The main requirement for entry into a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Public Affairs or International Relations is a bachelor's or a master's degree, preferably in a field related to international relations, such as political science or economics. Non-native English speakers typically need to have a minimum score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Some programs' admissions policies may also require that you demonstrate proficiency in a language that is not English.
Usually, the doctorate program takes 3-5 years to complete. In the typical program, the first couple of years are spent on classroom study, and the last three are spent completing qualifying exams, field exams and a thesis or a dissertation. The majority of these programs are available only on-campus.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Overview</b></td><td>Typically takes 3-5 years to complete; involves classroom study, qualifying exams and completing a dissertation or thesis</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Possible Specializations</b></td><td>International organizations; security studies; science, technology and environmental policy</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Public administration, social theory, American politics, developing countries, political methods</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Career Options</b></td><td>Teach at the postsecondary level, research, work for organizations such as the CIA or United Nations</td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Median Salary (2020)</b> </td><td> $125,350 (<i>for all political scientists</i>) </td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 6% growth (<i>for all political scientists</i>) </td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCoursesWillITake">What Courses Will I Take?</h3><p>Through a Ph.D. program in international relations or public affairs, you might complete core courses, research-based classes and courses for a specialization within the field. Possible specializations include international political economy; science, technology and environmental policy; security studies; and international organizations. You might take courses that include:
</p><ul><li>American politics
</li><li>Identity, place and space
</li><li>International perspectives and social theory
</li><li>Public administration
</li><li>International relations research
</li><li>Political methods
</li><li>State and local government
</li><li>Theories in contemporary international research
</li><li>Developing countries: health and public policy
</li></ul><h3 id="section---HowCanIUseMyDegree">How Can I Use My Degree?</h3><p>With a Ph.D. in international relations, you can enter research in politics, international relations or international affairs. You could also teach at the college level. However, there are many other possibilities, including working for the United Nations or the CIA.</p>
