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Social Sciences & Humanities

PhD in International Relations

DoctorateHEC recognisedCareer focused

A research-intensive doctoral programme preparing scholars for academia, policymaking, international organizations and diplomacy.

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3 Years

Duration

Credit hours

Courses

Overview

Programme overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Relations is a rigorous, research-intensive doctoral program designed to prepare scholars, researchers, and thought leaders for advanced careers in academia, policymaking, international organizations, think tanks, and diplomatic services.

The program emphasizes both theoretical and empirical research that engages with contemporary global challenges, including power relations, diplomacy, conflict resolution, global governance, and international political economy. It aims to develop high-level analytical and research competencies required to critically examine and contribute to the evolving international system.

Programme

Learning outcomes & curriculum

Programme Learning Outcomes

01Apply a significant amount of International Relations knowledge within the specific domain of the PhD programme.

02Demonstrate advanced research capacities with sufficient familiarity with research trends and methodologies.

03Contribute to the field of International Relations as highly effective practitioners by communicating ideas effectively for a national cause, social values, behavior, and change.

04Understand and analyze emerging political issues and contribute to effective policymaking.

SEMESTER I (FALL)

Advanced Qualitative Research (3+0)
Contemporary Issues in International Relations (3+0)
Independent Study I (3+0)
Fehm-e-Quran (1+0)

SEMESTER II (SPRING)

Advanced Quantitative Research (3+0)
Advances Theory & Practice in International Relations (3+0)
Independent Study II (3+0)
Fehm-e-Quran (1+0)

SEMESTER III

Thesis I: Research Proposal (6+0)

SEMESTER IV

Thesis II: Literature Review (9+0)

SEMESTER V

Thesis III: Research Method, Data Collection & Analysis (9+0)

SEMESTER VI

Thesis IV: Conclusion, Discussion & Recommendation (6+0)

Admissions

Admission & eligibility

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in any discipline from a recognized institution to enroll in the PhD in International Relations program at Greenwich University

the program also offers specialized weekend classes to accommodate working professionals

Careers

Career opportunities

Academic positions in universities as faculty members, researchers, and postdoctoral fellows

Roles in international organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, ASEAN, and other intergovernmental bodies

Careers in foreign ministries, diplomatic services, and government policy departments

Positions in NGOs, humanitarian organizations, and development agencies

Opportunities in global policy think tanks and research institutions

Roles in international journalism, political risk analysis, and strategic advisory firms

Corporate positions in global strategy, international business analysis, and geopolitical consulting

Why Greenwich

Why choose this programme

Develops expertise in global political systems, diplomacy, and international governance

Enhances advanced research, analytical, and critical thinking skills

Prepares scholars for impactful roles in academia, policy, and international organizations

Provides interdisciplinary understanding of political, economic, and strategic global issues

Strengthens capacity for original research and evidence-based policy contributions

Equips graduates to address complex and evolving geopolitical challenges

Ready to begin?

Apply for PhD in International Relations. Fall 2026–27. A simple, guided online application that takes under a minute.

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