Political Science

Degree Types: PhD

The Political Science PhD Program is designed for students whose primary concern is a mastery of theories, methods of research, and substantive literature of the discipline of political science.

The program reflects an effort to address big questions in politics by combining multiple social science methodologies including quantitative, qualitative, experimental, and interpretive methods. Committed to excellence in research and teaching, methodological diversity, and interdisciplinary collaborations, the department offers a stimulating intellectual community that is committed to diversity and equality of opportunity for students and faculty of all backgrounds.

We offer field training in American politics, comparative politics, political theory, international relations, and methods. Our graduate training strengths include:

• Race, Ethnicity and Politics
• Conflict Studies
• Law and Politics
• Public Opinion, Political Communication and Political Participation
• American Political Development
• International Theory
• Comparative Historical Analysis
• Feminist and Gender Studies

Additional resources:

• Department website
• Program handbook(s)

Degree Requirements

The following requirements are in addition to, or further elaborate upon, those requirements outlined in The Graduate School Policy Guide.

PhD

Total Units Required: 18

¹

At some point before defending a dissertation proposal, students must take at least two courses in Methods – PS 403 and PS 405 or their equivalents – which are offered annually in the Fall and Winter quarters, respectively. Students who have completed a political science graduate methods sequence or equivalent coursework prior to their time at Northwestern may apply for an exemption to this milestone. Political Theory majors are exempt from this requirement but are welcome to explore it. 

Other PhD Degree Requirements

• Research Paper Requirement: Due on the first day of the Fall quarter of the second year.
• Second Field Requirement: At some point before defending a dissertation proposal, students must qualify in a second field, either by taking a second Qualifying Examination (see below) or by completing five (5) graduate courses in that field with a B+ grade or higher in each of the five courses.
• Examination: Successful completion of a first-field Qualifying Examination in either Spring of the second year (typically in June) or Fall of the third year (typically in September). Before exams may be taken, students must complete 18 credits of coursework, resolve any incomplete grades, and fulfill the Research Paper Requirement.
• Prospectus: Successful defense of a dissertation proposal (often called a prospectus) in the Spring of the third year.
• Final Evaluations: Oral defense of dissertation.
• Other: Teaching requirements begin in the second year.