Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, intensive methodological training, teaching experience and original dissertation research. Early years typically emphasise core courses in political theory, comparative politics, American politics, international relations and public policy, together with advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods.

• Core and field seminars: seminars in major subfields (American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy) that develop breadth and depth.
• Methods training: advanced statistical modelling, causal inference, research design, survey methods and qualitative methods such as process tracing and case-study techniques.
• Professionalisation: courses and workshops on teaching practicum, academic writing, publishing, grant-writing and ethics in research.
• Comprehensive exams: students demonstrate mastery of chosen fields through written and/or oral examinations prior to the dissertation stage.
• Dissertation: an original research project that contributes to political science knowledge, carried out under a faculty supervisory committee and defended publicly.

Students also engage with department reading groups, research centres and interdisciplinary offerings across the university to refine their research agendas.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance; many successful applicants also hold a master’s degree in political science or a related discipline. Common application components include:

• Transcripts demonstrating strong undergraduate and any graduate coursework
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with departmental faculty
• A writing sample that demonstrates ability to conduct and present political science research
• Letters of recommendation from academic referees familiar with the applicant’s research potential
• A current CV showing relevant research, teaching, or professional experience
• Evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English

GRE policies and specific minimum grade-point requirements are set by the department and can change; applicants should consult the department’s graduate admissions page for current guidance. Strong quantitative preparation is an advantage, especially for applicants intending to emphasise empirical methods.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue a range of careers across academia, government, non-governmental organisations and the private sector. Typical paths include:

• Faculty positions at research universities and teaching-focused colleges
• Research and analyst roles in national and international policy institutes, think tanks and NGOs
• Positions in government agencies and intergovernmental organisations involving policy analysis, programme evaluation and legislative affairs
• Consulting roles that draw on expertise in research design, data analysis and public policy
• Applied research careers in survey research firms, data science teams and philanthropic organisations

The programme’s emphasis on rigorous methods, publication and teaching experience equips graduates to compete in both academic and applied research markets.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State University offers a departmental environment with broad faculty expertise across substantive and methodological areas, enabling close supervision for diverse dissertation topics. The department supports doctoral students through teaching and research assistantships, a structured mentoring system and a vibrant graduate student community.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary connections across the university—bridging public policy, international studies and quantitative social science—and access to campus research centres and library resources that support advanced scholarship. The department’s seminar culture, regular colloquia and opportunities to present work foster professional development and networking essential for careers in academia and policy research.