PhD Politics

at University of Surrey

Assessment

Your final assessment will be based on the presentation of your research in a written thesis, which will be discussed in a viva examination with at least two examiners. You have the option of preparing your thesis as a monograph (one large volume in chapter form) or in publication format (including chapters written for publication), subject to the approval of your supervisors.

The Department of Politics actively encourages visiting PhD students from other universities around the world.  If you are interested in coming to Surrey as a visiting PhD student you may submit your application via the Doctoral College.

Research support

The professional development of postgraduate researchers is supported by the Doctoral College, which provides training in essential skills through its Researcher Development Programme of workshops, mentoring and coaching. A dedicated postgraduate Careers and Employability team will help you prepare for a successful career after the completion of your PhD.

Research themes

European politics 
 

• European foreign and security policy  

• The role of the EU as an international actor  

• European integration theories 

• European equality policies and social policy 

• Regionalism and area studies 

• Area studies 

• Environmental policy  

• Opposition to the EU. 

Government and opposition 
 

• Electoral behaviour 

• party politics and patronage 

• Campaigns and elections 

• Citizens’ impressions of parties and their leaders 

• Social movements, opposition and resistance  

• Populism and radicalisation  

• Social media 

• Social, political and gender theories 

• Public opinion analysis. 

Security and conflict 
 

• Human rights and humanitarianism 

• Nuclear non-proliferation 

• Security and defence 

• Foreign policy analysis 

• International intervention 

• Foreign policy 

• Post-conflict reconstruction and stabilisation. 

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelors degree with a minimum of 2:1 and a masters degree with a minimum of a Merit from a UK university or overseas equivalent in a relevant discipline.

To apply for one of our postgraduate courses that require a UK 2:1, you must achieve at least 60% or 65% in the final two years of your undergraduate study depending on the institution you have completed your degree.

To apply for one of our postgraduate courses that require a UK 2:2, you must achieve at least 55% or 60% in the final two years of your undergraduate study depending on the institution you have completed your degree.

For courses that require a UK first-class degree to be eligible for a scholarship, you must achieve at least 65% or 70% in the final two years of your undergraduate study depending on the institution you have completed your degree.

English language requirements
 

• IELTS Academic: 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6.0 in each individual category and at least 7.0 in the writing component.

​​​​​​​If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.
 

Annual Tuition Fees:
 

• UK: £4,596

• Overseas: £18,100