Politics PhD

Why choose this course
The Department of Politics at the University of Surrey is a thriving space for research and public engagement on a range of political areas. We’re home to roughly a dozen researchers working across politics and international relations.

We have a growing profile as a provider of outstanding practitioner and researcher training. There are frequent opportunities for discussion of ideas, presentation of work, and participation in the events organised within the Faculty and University. These events include research seminars, visits from regular external speakers, and opportunities to meet policy-makers and politicians. PhD students also benefit from a dedicated room for all research students with excellent IT facilities.

The Department has a strong focus on applied politics, and we are globally recognised for our work in European politics and on international intervention. This excellence is reflected in our two research centres: the Centre for Research on the European Matrix (CRonEM) and the Centre for International Intervention (Cii). We have a strong track record of securing funding from research councils and European funders.

Our doctoral programme promotes high-quality research in politics, international relations and policy studies. We encourage and support innovative thinking, and our postgraduate researchers play an important role at the heart of our thriving research environment.

What you will study
We welcome applications from students who would like to conduct research (leading to an MPhil or PhD degree) in any of our areas of expertise.

However, we are also interested in hearing about other areas in which you would like to conduct research, if they are broadly in line with the School’s areas of research.

Research students within the Department are well supported, with training opportunities and regular supervision sessions.

Your supervisor will meet with you regularly for meetings and to provide feedback on your work. using their specialist knowledge of the subject area. They will also guide you on how to access the University’s support services and help prepare you for your post-study career.

You will also attend group sessions with the postgraduate research programme director to discuss your progress and develop your professional skills, as well as Departmental activities relating to research.

Your PhD will be assessed by a viva. If you require development in particular skills or substantive knowledge, then it is possible to enrol in relevant masters modules in Year 1.

Research support
The professional development of postgraduate researchers is supported by the Doctoral College, which provides training in essential skills through its Researcher Development Programme of workshops, mentoring and coaching. A dedicated postgraduate Careers and Employability team will help you prepare for a successful career after the completion of your PhD.

Research themes

• European politics: democracy, opposition, Euroscepticism, security, defence, populism
• Gender politics
• International politics
• British politics
• Electoral politics
• East and South-East Asian politics
• Ethno-territorial and multi-level politics.