
Overview
Distance learning does present challenges and applicants need to have a high capacity to work independently and in a disciplined fashion to pursue their research goals. However, supervisory teams are there to support students in acquiring the skills and knowledge to complete a thesis. In addition, you will be able to participate in an active research environment through a range of online and hybrid events.
Distance learning students are usually expected to attend one-week visit to the University (it is possible to request an exemption due to extenuating circumstances such as work commitments of caring responsibilities, for example). This visit will take place at the start of your studies during the College’s induction week (which usually takes place in the last week of September). This is a fantastic opportunity to attend a range of training sessions and networking events and meet your peers and supervisory team in person. The College of Social Sciences will make a generous contribution to your accommodation and travel. Your School will write to you to confirm the arrangements of your visit once you have confirmed your offer. Distance Learning students are not required to attend the University for the remainder of their studies but are welcome to visit at their own expense.
POLSIS is part of the School of Government, one of the leading UK and international centres for governance, politics, international development, and public management. As one of the largest Schools of Government, in the United Kingdom, it is home to more than 80 full-time academic staff, more than 1,200 undergraduate and taught postgraduate students, and more than 70 doctoral researchers.
Career
If I gain a postgraduate research degree in this area, what are my career prospects?
Graduates of the Political Science and International Studies by Distance Learning programme from University of Birmingham develop transferable skills that are useful in many occupations. These include familiarity with research methods; the ability to manage large and diverse quantities of information; the ability to organise information in a logical and coherent manner; judging and evaluating complex information; and making reasoned arguments, both orally, in tutorials and presentations, and in written work. There are many careers where a political science and international studies degree is useful and past graduates have entered areas including commercial management, finance, administration, politics, and even the armed forces. Some of our PhD graduates also continue onto successful careers in academic research and teaching.
Get more details
Visit official programme websiteProgramme Structure
We are particularly interested in receiving applications on themes that fit with our research groups:
- Asian Politics
- British Politics
- European Studies
- Gender and Feminist Theory
- International Relations and Security Theory
- Parties, Voters and Elections
- Political Economy
- Political Theory
Check out the full curriculum
Visit official programme websiteKey information
Start dates & application deadlines
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
Language
Delivered
Disciplines
International Relations Political Science View 5 other PhDs in International Relations in United KingdomExplore more key information
Visit official programme websiteAcademic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
- Applicants for the distance learning PhD must provide evidence of prior research experience and/or training suitable for their intended programme of study. When they apply, they are expected to consult with their supervisor who can assess their skills, background and capacity to undertake independent study at a distance.
- Besides formal qualifications, a key factor determining whether the Department decides to accept a candidate for either degree is the quality of his or her research proposal and its relevance to our own interests. Successful completion of a research thesis demands a high level of self-discipline, motivation and commitment to the subject of research. Great importance is placed on work experience, when relevant. Please contact the Department for more details.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit official programme websiteTuition Fee
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International
20340 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 20340 GBP per year -
National
4620 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 4620 GBP per year
£4,620 FT (Home students)£2,310 PT (Home students)£20,340 FT (International Students)
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.
Double-check all fees
Visit official programme websiteIn order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.
Scholarships Information
Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Political Science and International Studies by Distance Learning.
Available Scholarships
You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.