Political Science, PhD
Contact
Seth Jolly, Chair
100 Eggers
315-443-2113
skjolly@syr.edu
Dimitar Gueorguiev (Fall 2026)
Emily Thorson (Spring 2027)
Director of Graduate Studies
ddgueorg@syr.edu
eathorso@syr.edu
Student Learning Outcomes
- Present the results of their research and/or analysis of their topic and/or sub-discipline
- Develop and express issues and ideas in different writing forms that synthesize research and sub-discipline expertise
- Use quantitative and/or qualitative methods to conduct research
- Analyze interrelationships between political, economic, social, cultural, and historical forces in the field of political science and two sub-fields
- Demonstrate the requisite skills needed to apply for jobs in their field
- Demonstrate expertise as a political science instructor in undergraduate and graduate settings
Program Requirements
In the spring semester of the first year, graduate students in political science are evaluated on the basis of their performance in courses. A student invited to remain in the program to work toward a Ph.D. must complete 42 credits of graduate coursework and 30 dissertation credits, with a 3.0 or higher grade point average.
Ph.D. students are required to take:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| PSC 691 | Logic of Political Inquiry | 3 |
| PSC 693 | Introduction to Quantitative Political Analysis | 3 |
| PSC 694 | Qualitative Political Analysis | 3 |
| PSC 792 | Research Design | 3 |
| Select at least one additional methods course approved by the Director of Graduate Studies. | 3 | |
Once 30 credits of coursework are accumulated, a student working toward the Ph.D. will be eligible for the M.A. Students having done graduate work at another institution may petition to transfer a maximum of 9 credits toward the Ph.D.
Ph.D. students must pass qualifying examinations in two chosen fields of specialization, generally by the beginning of the third year. Students must also write and defend a doctoral dissertation.