John Hopkins University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous theoretical engagement with advanced methodological training and specialised study of national and international security. Early-stage coursework typically covers core topics such as international relations theory, security studies, international political economy and comparative politics, alongside quantitative and qualitative research methods and research design.

• Core seminars: contemporary theories of war and peace, deterrence and coercion, alliance politics, and the political economy of conflict.
• Methods training: statistical inference, causal identification, formal modelling, case-study methods, process tracing and fieldwork techniques.
• Area and thematic seminars: regional security (e.g. Middle East, East Asia, Europe), nuclear proliferation, counterinsurgency and counterterrorism, cyber security and intelligence studies.
• Research practicum: research proposal development, ethics and data management, and presentation of work-in-progress in departmental workshops.
• Language and archival work: students are often expected to acquire competency in a relevant foreign language and to undertake primary-source research for fieldwork or dissertation chapters.

After a period of taught coursework and methods training, students prepare for comprehensive examinations or a qualifying assessment that leads to dissertation candidacy. The dissertation is an original, sustained piece of research that contributes to scholarly understanding of international relations or national security and is defended in an oral examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree and typically a master's degree in political science, international relations, public policy, economics or a closely related discipline. Successful applicants demonstrate academic excellence, clear research potential and a coherent plan for doctoral study.

• Academic record: a first-class or high second-class undergraduate degree and/or a master's degree with strong academic performance (or the international equivalent).
• Research experience: evidence of research ability through a master’s thesis, research papers, or professional research roles.
• Application materials: a detailed statement of purpose or research proposal outlining intended dissertation topics, a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts and three letters of academic reference.
• Writing sample: an academic paper or chapter that demonstrates analytical and writing skills.
• Standardised tests and language: GRE scores may be considered where submitted; proof of English language ability is required for applicants whose first language is not English.
• Interview: shortlisted candidates are often interviewed by faculty to assess fit and readiness for doctoral research.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme pursue careers across academia, government, international organisations and the private sector. The combination of theoretical depth and methodological expertise prepares students for roles that require high-level analysis of security challenges and foreign policy.

• Academic careers: tenure-track and research-track positions in political science, security studies and international relations departments.
• Policy and government: policy analyst, national security advisor, defence and intelligence roles, and positions in foreign ministries.
• Think tanks and NGOs: senior researcher, programme director or analyst in institutions that shape public policy and public debate.
• International organisations and multilateral agencies: roles involving conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and security sector reform.
• Private sector: strategic risk consultancy, geopolitical risk analysis, and corporate security advisory positions.

Why study at John Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins offers an interdisciplinary environment with close links to policy communities and research centres. Students benefit from access to faculty who are active scholars and practitioners in international security, as well as to specialised centres that focus on foreign policy, transatlantic relations, and regional studies.

• Interdisciplinary strengths: opportunities to collaborate with centres and departments across the university, combining political science, economics, and area studies.
• Policy engagement: proximity to policy networks and visiting practitioners fosters applied research and professional connections.
• Research resources: extensive library holdings, archives and data resources support empirical and historical research.
• Global exposure: institutional links with international campuses and partner organisations provide options for fieldwork and comparative research.
• Professional development: seminars, workshops and teaching opportunities help prepare students for academic and non-academic careers.