PhD in Political Science - American Politics in Washington, D.C. United States | George Washington University

Within the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences' social and behavioral sciences division, the political science PhD program explores political systems at both domestic and global levels, focusing particularly on American government, cross-national political analysis, and global affairs. This highly regarded program enables graduate students to collaborate with distinguished academics across diverse specialties while leveraging the unique resources available in Washington, D.C.

The curriculum provides comprehensive training with special attention to developing proficiency in multiple research approaches. Participants have earned distinguished honors for their doctoral research and post-doctoral work while engaging extensively with the academic community. The program structure allows candidates to design their studies around primary and secondary concentrations. The three principal focus areas include U.S. government, global political systems, and cross-country political analysis. Students may pair any of these primary concentrations with secondary specializations in areas like policy studies, political philosophy, or analytical techniques. Furthermore, the department collaborates with the Trachtenberg School to provide a combined master's in public policy and political science doctorate degree.

Alumni have obtained faculty positions at institutions including William & Mary, DePaul University, Indiana University, University of Toronto, Colorado State University, Occidental College, SOAS/University of London, and University of Oregon. Those pursuing non-academic careers have secured roles at organizations such as the Congressional Research Service, World Bank, and Federal Bureau of Investigation.