PhD in Political Science - Comparative 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 on American government, comparative political systems, and international affairs. This highly regarded program enables graduate students to collaborate with distinguished academics across diverse specialties while leveraging Washington D.C.'s unique resources and opportunities.

The curriculum provides comprehensive training with particular attention to developing proficiency in multiple research approaches. Participants have earned distinguished dissertation honors and post-doctoral fellowships while engaging fully in professional activities. The program structure allows students to design their academic path by selecting primary and secondary concentrations. The three main focus areas are U.S. government, global affairs, and cross-national political analysis. For secondary specializations, students may choose among the primary fields or select public policy, political philosophy, or methodological studies. Furthermore, a joint degree option exists through collaboration between the Trachtenberg School and Political Science Department, combining a Master of Public Policy with the Political Science PhD.

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 joined organizations such as the Congressional Research Service, World Bank, and Federal Bureau of Investigation.