PhD in Political Science in Charlotte United States | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Our graduate program, ranked 11th among U.S. Political Science programs, maintains a highly selective admission process with an annual intake of around 15 students. We accept candidates pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science, whether they hold a bachelor's degree or advanced master's/professional qualifications.

The program prepares students for professional careers in political science, primarily in academia but also in government and NGO sectors. We emphasize developing substantive knowledge, methodological expertise, and communication skills to empower students to conduct innovative research and teach effectively.

Our curriculum cultivates comprehensive disciplinary competence while fostering specialization in specific subfields. Students benefit from small graduate seminars covering diverse topics and methodologies, along with extensive faculty mentorship that often leads to collaborative research. Teaching experience forms a core component, through both assistantships and independent course instruction - crucial preparation for academic careers or research-intensive roles in think tanks and government agencies.

With 43 faculty members (including 13 endowed/distinguished professors), we offer exceptional breadth in research approaches and course offerings. Our American politics expertise spans behavioral studies (public opinion, elections) and institutional analysis (courts, legislatures). Comparative politics strengths focus on Latin America, Europe, and post-Communist regions, while international relations scholars examine conflict, political economy, and their intersections. The political theory faculty specialize in contemporary normative theory, complemented by rigorous training in statistical analysis, formal theory, and causal inference methodologies.