Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science

The Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is designed to balance highly-focused study with breadth of study, preparing students to teach a wide range of courses. Students choose one of three concentrations:

• Comparative Politics/International Relations
• Judicial Politics
• Political Behavior

The faculty teaching in these concentrations have diverse research interests, including electoral politics, ethnicity and nationalism, judicial politics, political communication, and religion and politics. They have expertise in American politics, East-Central European and Eurasian politics, Latin American politics, Middle Eastern politics, and American and European courts.

Program Overview

There are four reasons why Southern Illinois University Carbondale might be the best place for doctoral studies:

• Match: The program values innovative research and encourages students to seek out interesting questions that cut across arbitrary disciplinary lines.
• Methods: The program provides advanced training in statistical analysis and qualitative methods, allowing students to master a wide range of methodologies.
• Mentoring: The program sees doctoral students as colleagues-in-training and provides institutional support for professional development through orientations, pre-professional seminars, and advisement.
• Results: The program has an outstanding placement record, with nearly all recent Ph.D. graduates pursuing academic careers having attained positions at R1 research institutions, liberal arts colleges, and community colleges.

Degree Requirements

Candidates in the political science doctorate program must complete 37 hours of graduate-level coursework, including:

• One hour of pre-professional study in POLS 593
• Three courses in research tools and methods through POLS 500A, POLS 500B, and POLS 500C
• A classics reading course in POLS 592A
• 21 hours of seminar work in their concentration

Ph.D. students must also complete a written and oral examination, and a total of 24 hours of dissertation credit hours is required to complete their degree.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Ph.D. program, students will need to submit a statement of purpose, research statement, and resume/curriculum vitae, among other requirements.

Financial Assistance

All students admitted to the graduate program are considered for funding, including a set of four-year assistantships and other funding opportunities for doctoral students.

Ph.D./J.D. Concurrent Degrees

Students interested in law and policy may pursue both a Ph.D. in Political Science and a Juris Doctor degree.

Research Areas

The program has diverse research areas, including:

• Electoral politics
• Ethnicity and nationalism
• Judicial politics
• Political communication
• Religion and politics
• American politics
• East-Central European and Eurasian politics
• Latin American politics
• Middle Eastern politics
• American and European courts

Testimonials

The program has received positive testimonials from graduates, who appreciate the faculty's expertise, the program's size, and the opportunities for professional development.

Southern Illinois University

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Overview:

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and off-campus options. SIU is known for its commitment to access and opportunity, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

SIU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in outdoor adventures, explore the university's 3,000 acres of hills and forests, and engage in various recreational activities. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with the Salukis competing in NCAA Division I athletics.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

SIU offers in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of their residency.

Small Class Sizes:

The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and smaller class sizes.

Diverse Academic Programs:

SIU offers over 200 majors, minors, and specializations, providing students with a wide range of academic options.

Research Opportunities:

SIU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Strong Alumni Network:

SIU has a large and active alumni network, offering support and connections to students after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A variety of undergraduate majors are available, including engineering, business, education, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.

Online Programs:

SIU offers a variety of online programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

Off-Campus Programs:

SIU offers off-campus programs at various locations, providing students with opportunities to study and learn in different environments.

Simmons Law School:

SIU's law school offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

School of Medicine:

SIU's medical school offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

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Other:

SIU is committed to providing a safe and inclusive campus environment for all students. The university offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.