Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
The Political Science Department provides adaptable graduate programs culminating in a Ph.D. degree. We strive to deliver top-tier graduate education for those pursuing academic careers in teaching and research, as well as professional roles in government and industry. Graduate students enjoy access to dedicated faculty, comprehensive methodological instruction, interdisciplinary perspectives, and personalized guidance through our faculty mentorship approach. Numerous students forge academic collaborations with other university departments and disciplines.
The curriculum covers core and supplementary political science concentrations alongside research methodologies. Students select a primary specialization from four established areas (American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, or Political Theory), completed through coursework and comprehensive examinations. The secondary concentration may be chosen from these core fields, the department's specialized tracks in Identity Politics and Environmental Politics, or a student-designed focus with departmental approval.
To be considered for admission to UCSB, applicants must have received a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent (with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better) from an accredited university prior to the quarter for which admission is sought.
TOEFL scores 600 Paper-Based Test (PBT), 80 Internet-Based Test (IBT) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Overall Band score of 7 or higher (if applicable).
Deadline: Fall Only: December 14