50 PhD programmes in International Relations in United Kingdom

The International Relations course from University of Plymouth is suitable for people who have a particular research question or topic in mind, and wish to explore this through independent study in order to produce an original contribution to the subject. If you aspire to a research career this is the most appropriate research degree to undertake.

Study at a world-leading department for international relations, analysing foreign policy, nationalism, international environmental politics and war studies. Learn more at the International Relations programme from London School of Economics and Political Science.

Our PhD in Humanitarianism and Conflict Response at The University of Manchester is inspired by the need to conduct rigorous, in-depth research and analysis on the impact and outcomes of contemporary and historical crises.

Take on global challenges in the 21st century – interpret events, identify trends and make informed judgments about the future. Engage with world politics, global environmental change, terrorism, governance in cyberspace, and conflict resolution with insight and clarity.

The International Relations programme from University of Lincoln is informed by the expertise of its team of academics, who have long-standing links to government, research organisations, and the voluntary sector.

The International Studies programme offered by Queen's University Belfast develops advanced research expertise in international relations, global politics, security, political economy, and conflict studies, enabling students to investigate contemporary international issues through original and interdisciplinary research.

The European Politics MPhil/PhD course from University of Exeter provides an ideal place to undertake a MPhil/PhD in Politics and International Relations, Security, Conflict and Human Rights, or Strategy and Security. There are opportunities at both the Streatham Campus in Exeter and at the Penryn Campus near Falmouth.

At University of Oxford, the DPhil International Relations programme is a full-time programme of doctoral research in the academic study of International Relations with an expected length of three to four years of full-time study or six to eight years of part-time study. 

As one of the largest concentrations of International Relations scholars in the world, our Department at the University of Sussex offers a vibrant and productive environment for you to pursue your PhD.

POLIS Regional Studies staff at the The Open University UK have an exceptionally wide range of regional expertise, encompassing Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, South and East Asia, Latin America, and Sub-Saharan Africa.

We offer high-quality supervision across a wide range of social and public policy areas seeking to research and examine causes and effects of globally mobility.

The International Relations programme offered by King's College London examines global politics, foreign policy, international cooperation, and Brazil’s evolving role in world affairs through advanced interdisciplinary research.

A University of Hertfordshire research degree in Politics and International Relations is internationally recognised signifying high levels of achievement in research.

The Politics, International Relations, and Sociology programme offered by Canterbury Christ Church University develops expertise in governance, global affairs, and social structures.

The European and International Studies programme offered by King's College London produces world-leading research in the fields of European studies, International Political Economy, and European and International politics and affairs. 

Develop as an independent and competent researcher, and gain a greater understanding of research techniques appropriate to your subject area with this Politics, Languages and International Studies programme at the University of Bath.

The War Studies Research programme offered by King's College London investigates war, conflict, security, defence, and international politics through interdisciplinary research that combines theoretical, historical, and policy-oriented perspectives.

The International Relations programme offered by Anglia Ruskin University explores global politics, international relations, security, development, and political change through advanced research into contemporary international issues and global challenges.

Understand the nature and significance of conflict as a human condition. Develop the skills to prevent violent conflict, mitigate its catastrophic effects, and reconstruct societies in its aftermath.  Embedded in our world re

We have more than 30 PhD Politics students at Royal Holloway University of London pursuing cutting-edge research, and undertaking advanced training, in the areas of new political communication; elections, public opinion and parties; comparative politics; politics of Africa, Asia and the Middle East; and international relations.