Hear from our Recent Alumni
Advice to Incoming Students
What advice would you give a new student beginning a graduate political science program at Carleton? Hear what our alumni, Class of 2021, have to say.
What is your favourite course?
MA/PhD graduate Rumbi Chimhanda and PhD graduate Noah Schwartz talk about what courses especially inspired and challenged them in the doctoral program.
Program overview
The PhD program is based on rigorous, theoretically-grounded study in two fields of Political Science; students choose from Political Theory, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Canadian Politics, Public Policy and Gender and Diversity. All of these fields are well-represented by internationally-recognized faculty members who are available for doctoral research supervision. Find out more about our field groups.
After completing the required coursework and two comprehensive examinations, doctoral students embark on the process of writing their dissertation. Guidance and support are offered to students at all stages of their doctoral careers.
The PhD program emphasizes the development of theoretical competence and rigorous analytical skills in the study of politics. All graduate students in Political Science are welcomed as active members of the research community that thrives within the department. Doctoral students in the Department of Political Science are also eligible to apply for the Collaborative PhD in Political Economy.
Admission
The Doctor of Philosophy is designed for students who have already completed an MA degree in Political Science. The admissions process is competitive and enrollment is limited.