Rochester,
NY,
United States
Type
Private
Degrees offered
Bachelor's Degree
PhD in Political Science in Rochester United States | University of Rochester
University of Rochester
|
Rochester United States
Visit institution website
for more information
Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD
40,905
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
48 months
The Department of Political Science at Rochester University has played a pivotal role in reshaping political science as a field. After William H. Riker joined in 1962, what began as a modest department with only six faculty members, limited undergraduate courses, and no graduate program evolved into a nationally recognized institution, despite initially having little prominence beyond the work of a few junior professors.
Graduate studies at Rochester thrive on collaboration. While faculty members pursue diverse research topics and methodologies, they unite in their approach to graduate education. Everyone agrees on the importance of combining statistical analysis and formal theory with a thorough understanding of political systems.
Faculty and graduate students frequently work together on research projects. Beyond classes and individual research, the department organizes weekly seminars where students and professors present their findings and engage with top scholars nationwide.
The program equips students with advanced theoretical and empirical skills for cutting-edge political science research. A key emphasis is helping students shift from learning foundational concepts to applying them in original research. The curriculum prepares students by developing essential skills, guiding them toward dissertation topics, and offering the necessary support to complete their projects. Another critical aim is helping students publish their work and succeed in the academic job market.
Rochester's PhD program stands apart. It offers the most intensive training in political science globally, unlike conventional programs that provide a broad selection of courses. Instead, Rochester focuses on mastering modern political science techniques. While students specialize in areas like American politics, comparative politics, international relations, or political philosophy, all gain exceptional expertise in formal theory and statistical methods—far beyond what most traditional programs offer.
Completing the doctoral program typically takes four to five years of dedicated full-time study.
Destination of Study
Subjects of Study
Language Requirements
English
IELTS 6.0
Qualification Requirements
Transcripts - You may scan transcripts to the online application. An original transcript will be required upon admission.
Letters of Recommendation - The Department of Political Science requires three letters of recommendation. In filling out the online application, you will be asked for the names of your three recommenders, each of whom will be sent an email with a link giving them instructions on how to submit their letters electronically.
Writing Sample - You may upload a writing sample in the application. This must be a sample of your own original academic writing in English. (Translations are acceptable, provided the translation is your own work.) Please indicate the original purpose of the writing sample, and when and to whom it was submitted.
Curriculum Vitae (optional) - You may also upload a brief resume listing any additional information you believe to be relevant to your application for admission.
Standardized Tests - GRE general test is required. GRE scores should be sent to department code 1902, school code 2928.
Letters of Recommendation - The Department of Political Science requires three letters of recommendation. In filling out the online application, you will be asked for the names of your three recommenders, each of whom will be sent an email with a link giving them instructions on how to submit their letters electronically.
Writing Sample - You may upload a writing sample in the application. This must be a sample of your own original academic writing in English. (Translations are acceptable, provided the translation is your own work.) Please indicate the original purpose of the writing sample, and when and to whom it was submitted.
Curriculum Vitae (optional) - You may also upload a brief resume listing any additional information you believe to be relevant to your application for admission.
Standardized Tests - GRE general test is required. GRE scores should be sent to department code 1902, school code 2928.
Tuition
USD
40,905