Political Science | PhD
Become a Leader in Political Science Research
The PhD in Political Science at the University of Guelph prepares students to become independent researchers, critical thinkers, and experts in their chosen field. Designed for students pursuing careers in academia, public policy, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, the program provides advanced training in political analysis, research design, and scholarly communication.
Working closely with accomplished faculty researchers, students develop the expertise needed to contribute original knowledge to the discipline and tackle complex political challenges at local, national, and global levels. The department's strong research culture, small cohort environment, and proven success in graduate funding support create an exceptional setting for doctoral studies.
- Specialize in Five Research Fields
- Choose from Comparative Politics; Gender, Race, Indigeneity and Sexuality; International Relations; Law and Politics; or Public Policy and Governance.
- Develop Advanced Research Expertise
- Strengthen qualitative and quantitative research skills through advanced methodology training, research design coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research.
- Build Careers Beyond Graduation
- Prepare for academic appointments and research-focused careers within government, public agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.
Program Format and Courses for Political Science
The PhD program combines advanced coursework, methodological training, comprehensive examinations, and dissertation research. Students work closely with faculty supervisors while developing expertise in a major field of study and producing original scholarship that contributes to the discipline.
PhD in Political Science
- Major field specialization in one of five areas
- Advanced training in research design and methods
- Qualitative and quantitative data analysis coursework
- Qualifying examinations
- Dissertation proposal development
- Independent doctoral research under faculty supervision
- Opportunities to participate in funded research projects
- Preparation for academic and professional research careers
Students complete doctoral studies in one of the following fields:
Comparative Politics
Examine political institutions, social movements, political parties, regime change, governance systems, and state-society relations using comparative methodologies.
Gender, Race, Indigeneity and Sexuality (GRIS)
Explore identity, politics, power, and intersectionality while examining how diverse identities shape political experiences and public policy.
International Relations
Investigate international political dynamics, conflict, global governance, international political economy, and relationships among global actors.
Law and Politics
Study judicial decision-making, constitutionalism, rights, public policy, legal mobilization, and the relationship between law and political institutions.
Public Policy and Governance
Analyze policy development, implementation, evaluation, public administration, governance systems, and relationships among governments, public agencies, and stakeholders.
Where Can Political Science Take You?
Advance Knowledge and Influence Policy
Graduates of the Political Science PhD program possess sophisticated research, analytical, and communication skills that enable them to contribute to policy development, governance, public debate, and academic scholarship. Through advanced doctoral training, students become experts capable of conducting independent research and leading projects that address contemporary political challenges.
Career pathways may include:
- Professor or Research Faculty Member
- Policy Analyst
- Government Researcher
- Strategic Consultant
- Public Sector Executive
- Political Risk Analyst
- Research Director
- Think Tank Researcher
- NGO Policy Specialist
- International Development Researcher
Graduates are well positioned to pursue leadership roles in higher education, government ministries, public agencies, advocacy organizations, international institutions, and private research organizations.
Take the Next Step
Whether your interests lie in comparative politics, international relations, public policy, law and politics, or identity and governance, the Political Science PhD at the University of Guelph provides the advanced training, mentorship, and research opportunities needed to make meaningful contributions to the field.
Join a research-intensive doctoral program where you will collaborate with accomplished faculty, refine advanced methodological expertise, and develop original scholarship that addresses pressing political issues. Through rigorous coursework, comprehensive examinations, and independent dissertation research, you will build the foundation for a successful career in academia, government, policy development, or applied research.
Get in Touch
Questions about the PhD in Political Science?
Contact the CSAHS Graduate Program team at csahs.admissions@uoguelph.ca. For prospective doctoral students, the department strongly encourages connecting with potential faculty supervisors whose research interests align with your own before applying.