We supervise research across a range of areas, from political science and philosophy to public policy and global politics. Join a tight knit group of scholars exploring the latest events, theories, systems and policies shaping our world.
Our research is internationally recognised for its impact in a diverse range of areas from the governance of oceans to civic participation through citizen assemblies.
You'll have the opportunity to pursue your own research interests. We organise our research around 3 themes that represent our core strengths:
You'll gain a grounding in the aspects of political science related to your proposed topic. At least 2 academic supervisors will support and guide you along with other members of the supervisory team as you need them. You'll undergo training in a variety of research methods to help you think critically about your work.
You'll hear visiting speakers from around the world at research seminars and the annual lecture. The department's weekend conference is a chance to practice your presentation skills and explore contemporary political issues in a relaxed environment.
We'll support you in submitting articles to journals and in developing your public research profile. You may also be able to apply for teaching opportunities.
We have expertise in areas such as the dynamics of trust in institutions of governance, the geopolitics of the semiconductor industry and the access to health services of forced migrants.
We cover a wide range of topics, including:
You can either apply for a structured studentship or propose your own PhD idea.
Taking a structured PhD will give you access to additional training, conferences and secondments.
We run funded PhD studentships in partnership with doctoral training centres, meaning you'll benefit from enhanced training and guaranteed funding
These studentships are open to UK and international applicants and include:
We offer scholarships and teaching bursaries ourselves. Your potential supervisor can guide you on what is available.
If you’re an international student you may be able to apply for a scholarship from your country.
Find out more about scholarships
Once you’ve found a supervisor, they can help you with potential funding sources. We offer match funding in some cases.
You’ll need to state how you intend to pay for your tuition and fees when you submit your application.
Find out more about funding your PhD.
You may be able to fund your postgraduate research with funding from your current employer or from industry.
You can borrow up to £29,390 for a PhD starting on or after 1 August 2024. Doctoral loans are not means tested and you can decide how much you want to borrow.
Find out about PhD loans on GOV.UK
You may be able to win funding from one or more charities to help fund your PhD.
You'll need to pay tuition fees for every year of study. Fees are the same whether you're studying in person or by distance learning. If you're applying for a fully funded project, your fees will be paid for you.
2023 to 2024 entry:
| Subject | UK fees | International fees |
| Politics PhD full time | tbc | £18,600 |
| Politics PhD part time | tbc | £9,300 |
2024 to 2025 entry:
| Subject | UK fees | International fees |
| Politics PhD full time | £4,786 | £19,200 |
| Politics PhD part time | £2,393 | £9,600 |
2025 to 2026 entry:
| Subject | UK fees | International fees |
| Politics PhD full time | tbc | £19,620 |
| Politics PhD part time | tbc | £9,810 |
You're eligible for a 10% alumni discount on a self-funded PhD if you're a current student or graduate from the University of Southampton.
Our 4 research centres explore local, national and global political challenges.
Decide whether you want to apply to an advertised research project or create your own proposal.
It's a good idea to email potential supervisors to discuss the specifics of your project. It's best to do this well ahead of the application deadline.
You’ll find supervisors’ contact details listed with the advertised project, or you can search for supervisors in the staff directory.
You’ll need to send us:
The application process is the same whether you're applying for a funded project, or have created a research proposal.
You’ll need to have a:
Visit our global pages to find equivalent international qualifications.
If English is not your first language, you'll need an IELTS minimum level of 7.0 with a 6.5 in writing, reading, speaking and listening.
Your awarded certificate needs to be dated within the last 2 years.
If you need further English language tuition before starting your degree, you can apply for one of our pre-sessional English language courses.
Check the specific entry requirements listed on the project you’re interested in before you apply.
Research degrees have a minimum and maximum duration, known as the candidature. Your candidature ends when you submit your thesis.
Most candidatures are longer than the minimum period.
| Degree type | Duration |
| Politics and international relations PhD full time | 2 to 4 years |
| Politics and international relations PhD part time | 3 to 7 years |
