Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
The Ph.D. in Political Science
The Doctor of Philosophy degree is designed primarily to equip individuals to engage in academic teaching and research. Those who hold the Ph.D. in Political Science are able to comprehend the current literature, to discover the linkages between various areas of research, and to contribute to the body of knowledge constituting Political Science. Usually, individuals with a Ph.D. teach in colleges and universities. Those with a Ph.D. also will find opportunities in other areas of government, as well as in the private sector.
Degree Requirements
Doctoral students admitted to the program must complete 72 hours beyond the bachelor’s degree, including 24 hours of course work beyond the master’s degree, graded A-F, must successfully pass a written comprehensive examination in two substantive fields of political science (American Government and Politics; Comparative Government and Politics; International Relations; or Public Administration) must complete two Advanced Methods courses, and must pass a final oral examination on the dissertation. In addition to the total hours required for the degree, the following requirements must also be met.
- At least 60 hours must be in political science courses numbered above 500.
- Completion of POLS 510, 511 and 513.
- Completion of at least three courses or seminars at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in each of the two substantive fields in which the student specializes.
- At least 6 hours must be earned in political science courses numbered above 600.
- A total of 24 hours must be earned by writing the dissertation.
Application Deadlines
The application deadline for the Ph.D. program for Fall semester admission is January 1 for all applicants. For Spring semester admission, the deadline (file completion) is September 1 for international applicants and November 15 for domestic applicants. Please note that graduate assistantships are generally available only to applicants seeking admission for the Fall semester.
Dissertation or Thesis Proposal Approval Form
Questions?
Contact our director of Graduate Studies, Wonjae Hwang.
Wonjae Hwang
Director of Graduate Studies
Department of Political Science
1019 McClung Tower
Knoxville, TN 37996-0410
Phone: (865) 974-0608
Email: whwang@utk.edu