Overview

Political Science candidates at Stellenbosch University are required to undertake independent research under the supervision of a promoter and to submit a written research report in the form of a dissertation.

This dissertation is evaluated internally as well as externally.

Features

The candidate must also undergo an oral examination which focuses on the content of the dissertation and the candidate’s knowledge of the discipline.

Programme Structure

Curriculum:

The programme focuses on contemporary issues in the different fields of Political Science and International Studies.

Particular emphasis is placed on research problems that are related to South and Southern Africa, and that are linked to the Department’s research programmes.

The content of the dissertation is determined by the nature of the research problem that is being investigated, the content of the research aim and the procedures for gathering data.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-02-12 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-11-30 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

79

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Delivered

On Campus

Disciplines

Political Science View 7 other PhDs in Political Science in South Africa

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

79

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

A master’s degree with postgraduate training in research methodology.

A candidate who has not completed a postgraduate research methodology course must register for the equivalent thereof at the department.

Final admission to doctoral studies is dependent on the acceptance of a research proposal.

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Stellenbosch University and/or in South Africa, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

20518 ZAR/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 20518 ZAR per year during 36 months.
National

20518 ZAR/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 20518 ZAR per year during 36 months.

Living costs for Stellenbosch

7630 - 10640 ZAR /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Political Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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