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  Department of Politics and International Relations PhD studentships: discover how to get on board


  Department of Politics

 Funded PhD Programme (European/UK Students Only)

About the Programme

Defined by a dynamic and extensive research culture, the Department of Politics and International Relations is regarded as a world leading institute within the discipline. 94 per cent of our research is rated in the highest two categories in the Research Excellence Framework 2021, meaning it is classed as world-leading or internationally excellent. With a host of academic staff, researching a variety of topics, the department is able to offer expert supervision across a broad spectrum of specialisms.

Engaged in research that is civic and impact driven, the department is keen to attract research proposals from those with innovative ideas in a range of areas. Some of the key strengths of the department include; International relations, comparative and international political economy, governance and policy, British politics, political theory, development and democratisation (including in Latin America, Africa, the Caribbean and South Asia), European politics and the European Union, and political sociology. All of this is underpinned by a comprehensive range of methodologies and approaches to the areas of study, resulting in a wide remit of supervision expertise.

The department offers a vibrant and friendly Graduate School that encourages collaboration of ideas and provides the opportunity to share and present on research findings. The department is also home to a series of widely respected research centres, as well as having strong links with other established research centres across the region.

The department is very successful in securing scholarships, receiving funding from the University of Sheffield, the ESRC and the AHRC. These scholarships are popular, and subject to availability.

Please visit the website for further details and information on applying, as well as a complete list of academics available to supervise your research, alongside an in depth list of research topics: www.sheffield.ac.uk/politics/phd

Research community at the University of Sheffield

The University prides itself on research-led critical thinking that aims to make an impact in the world. With our academics producing world class and internationally recognised research, the University of Sheffield has developed a reputation for research quality. By supporting and engaging with our postgraduate research community, we encourage a friendly, productive and inclusive atmosphere.

As part of the Faculty of Social Sciences, the Doctoral Training Centre offers research training to support postgraduate research students at all stages of their work. Opportunities to access training at the University of Leeds and the University of York are also available as part of the White Rose Doctoral Training Centre (WRDTC) provision. The DTC facilitates networking between students and provides training in generic, advanced and transferable skills. There is a vibrant and expansive research community which produces doctoral graduates with outstanding skills and flexibility.


Funding Notes

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. It is available to citizens of a number of European countries (including the UK). In most cases this will include all EU nationals. However full funding may not be available to all applicants and you should read the full programme details for further information.

Register your interest for this programme



Where will I study?

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