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Why study with us?

97% of our research outputs are rated ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, meaning that the University of Reading is 6th highest in the UK for research outputs (Times Higher Education analysis of the latest Research Excellence Framework 2021 – Politics and International Studies, when scoring by GPA Output).

Developing a PhD

Find out about our areas of expertise, our postgraduate supervision, and the flexible modes of study we offer.

Fees and funding

The University allocates around 150 entry awards each year in PhD studentships and bursaries, so there are many ways to access PhD funding.

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How we support you

You'll receive support from our Department as well as the Doctoral and Researcher College, which is the University of Reading's hub for all doctoral activity. 

PhD supervision

When you undertake a PhD with us, you'll be assigned two supervisors, based on your research proposal and whether this aligns with their specialisms.

Our expert academics are leaders in their areas of research, and will work closely with you to ensure your time with us as a PhD student is as rewarding as possible.

Find out more about our staff and the areas of doctoral research they supervise

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Life in the Department

When you choose to undertake a PhD with us, you will join a supportive academic community. You will have opportunities to attend departmental seminars, present your work and network with other researchers.

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Our research

Our groundbreaking work on global organisations such as the United Nations sits alongside research into international political economy, intergenerational justice and equality. 

Our PhD students

Find out who our current PhD students are and what research projects they are working on in the Department of Politics and International Relations.