PhD Scholarships in Political Science, Public Policy and International Relations in Vienna

At a glance

We are a close-knit, dynamic academic community that is home to about 50 permanent faculty members and more than 100 doctoral students from all over the world. Committed to teaching and research across disciplinary and organizational boundaries, our school brings together the expertise of CEU’s Departments of Political Science and International Relations, and the School of Public Policy. We are also part of the European Graduate Network, a vibrant platform for sharing research among eight world-leading institutions.

Earn a valuable degree

PhD in Political Science / This is one of the largest, most international and most competitive doctoral programs in Europe, providing aspiring scholars with the theoretical and methodological skills needed to challenge and shape what we know about politics, public policy and governance. We offer five specializations based on a system of tracks, which you can complement with a minor by doing additional coursework in a subfield.

As a doctoral student, you will be exposed to a great variety of perspectives and approaches. Aside from your permanent supervisor, you will also work with a supervisory panel and may join student-faculty research groups or research centers. There will also be plenty of opportunities for you to network with top scholars, spend a semester abroad, gain teaching experience at a partner university and take part in conferences, summer schools and workshops on and off campus.

Choose from 5 tracks

Comparative Politics / International Relations / Political Economy / Political Theory / Public Policy

Study in Vienna

Apply now and study in Vienna, ranked as the world’s “most livable city” for ten years in a row. Located in the heart of Europe, the Austrian capital is one of the leading global hubs for research and business, home to over 200 multinational corporations. Come join us in Vienna in 2021-2022!

Fund your studies

In pursuit of our mission, we strive to attract world-class graduate talent from all over the world. This is why we offer generous financial aid available to students from any country. Doctoral scholarships include a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend for living expenses. Learn more at www.ceu.edu/financialaid.

How to apply

Admissions requirements

• Completed online application form: www.ceu.edu/apply
• Proof of English proficiency
• Letters of recommendation
• CV
• Master’s degree
• Research proposal
• Statement of purpose
• Outline of master’s thesis or other substantial academic work

Application deadline

February 1, 2021

Why CEU?

• World-ranked master's and doctoral programs in the humanities and social sciences
• Close supervision and faculty contact with world-class researchers
• 82% of our graduate students receive financial aid
• Valuable degree accredited in the U.S. and Austria
• Committed to academic freedom and open debate
• Based in Vienna, ranked as the world’s most livable city by the Economist Intelligence Unit