PhD Politics and International Relations

About the course

A University of Hertfordshire research degree is internationally recognised signifying high levels of achievement in research. This course develops extensive subject expertise and independent research skills honed over an extended period.  

You undertake a substantial, original research project for the duration of the degree, under the supervision and guidance of two or more academic members of staff.  

During the course you’ll attend a seminar series and generic training courses. 

There will be opportunities to present your work at major conferences and in refereed research publications.  

The degree is assessed on the final research output in the form of a substantial 80,000 words written thesis which is defended in a viva with an external examiner.  

How to apply 

Before making your formal application we recommend you discuss your proposed research with the appropriate member of staff in the School of Life and Medical Sciences and the Research Tutor, Amanda Ludlow.

Please include an outline research proposal with your application. Members of academic staff will advise on the length and scope of the proposal. 

Download an application form.  

Submit your application to DoctoralCollegeAdmissions@herts.ac.uk

Teaching methods

Research degrees are not taught programmes. You’ll be supported by a range of skills-based training. 

You’ll meet with your supervisory team regularly to discuss your research and feedback on your writing. You are given the opportunity to attend the University's Generic Skills Training sessions, our Politics and International Relations Research Seminar series and other events run by our subject group such as writing retreats. 

The degree is assessed on the final research output, in the form of a substantial written thesis of 80,000 words, which is defended in a viva with an external examiner.  

Course experts

Programme Leader Dr Francesca Batzella

Find out more about Programme Leader Dr Francesca Batzella

What’s next for my career?

You will benefit from our cutting-edge research covering a wide range of topics, from International Relations to Global Governance, from Political Theory to local and regional studies. 

At Hertfordshire, you will be joining our Critical Humanities and International Politics Research Group (CHIP) (@UH_CHIP), a team of highly engaged scholars, internationally known for their commitment in teaching and research. 

Major research focuses include:

• International security, conflicts, strategy and peacebuilding
• The Anthropocene, International Political Economy, technology, energy policy and climate change 
• Critical political theory and continental philosophy 
• Justice, governance, and local politics 
• Environmental Politics and Social Justice 
• European Union 

Please see our Critical Humanities and International Politics Research Group (CHIP) page for more information on our staff members and areas of supervision.