PhD in International Relations in St Andrews United Kingdom | University of St Andrews

The doctoral program typically spans three years of full-time study, with an option to extend to six years for part-time students. Following this initial registration period, all candidates are granted an additional year to finalize their thesis. In the first year, students follow a customized curriculum combining research methodology, specialized subject training, and general academic development. The Postgraduate Research Committee conducts progress reviews with first-year students each spring. Those who meet the first-year requirements transition from provisional to confirmed PhD status. This advancement depends on: demonstrating satisfactory research progress (as endorsed by your supervisor), successful completion of the IR5601 Research Methods in International Relations course, approval of your research proposal, and fulfillment of first-year training objectives.