Emory University

What you'll study

Coursework covers the major subfields of political science as well as methodological foundations. Typical areas of study include:

• American Politics: political behaviour, institutions, public opinion, elections and public law.
• Comparative Politics: regime types, comparative political economy, development, and party systems.
• International Relations: security studies, international political economy, and global governance.
• Political Theory: normative theory, history of political thought, and contemporary ethical and political debates.
• Public Policy and Administration: policy analysis, implementation, and evaluation across substantive domains.
• Research Methods: advanced quantitative techniques (e.g. econometrics, causal inference), qualitative methods (e.g. case-study design, ethnography), and computational approaches to text and network data.

In addition to core seminars, students take methods sequences, elective seminars in their specialisation, and a graduate pedagogy course. The degree culminates in comprehensive or qualifying examinations followed by dissertation research and defence.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and assessed on the basis of demonstrated research potential and preparation. Typical application materials include:

• Graduate or undergraduate transcripts demonstrating strong academic performance; a master's degree in political science or a related field is commonly held by applicants, though exceptional applicants with a strong bachelor’s record and research experience may also be considered.
• A statement of purpose that outlines research interests, methodological preparation, and potential faculty mentors.
• A writing sample that showcases analytic and research skills (for example, a chapter of a master’s thesis or a substantial seminar paper).
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research ability and scholarly promise.
• A current curriculum vitae listing education, research experience, and professional activities.
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (such as TOEFL or IELTS), when required by the university.

Admissions committees also consider prior research experience, quantitative and qualitative training, and fit with departmental faculty. Applicants should review the department's application instructions for full details on submitted materials and any standardised testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue a range of careers that draw on advanced research, analytical, and teaching skills. Common pathways include:

• Tenure-track or teaching positions at universities and colleges.
• Postdoctoral research appointments and research positions at academic centres or think tanks.
• Policy analysis and senior research roles in government agencies, international organisations, and non-governmental organisations.
• Research and advisory roles in consulting firms, political risk analysis, and data-driven policy units in the private sector.
• Public-facing roles in media, advocacy, and civic organisations where deep subject-matter expertise is required.

Why study at Emory University

Emory’s department offers close faculty mentorship, a collegial graduate community, and access to interdisciplinary resources across the university such as law, public health, business, and data science. Students benefit from regular seminar series, workshops that support methodological training and grant-writing, and opportunities to teach and gain professional development experience. The programme’s location and institutional networks also provide avenues for policy engagement, archival research, and collaboration with regional and international research centres.