PhD in International Relations: Eligibility, Admissions 2025, Exams, Fees & Salary

PhD International Relations is a doctorate course for a period of 3 to 6 years, offering knowledge in International Trade, International Relations Dynamics, and Epistemology in Geopolitics.

To be eligible for a Ph.D. in International Relations, candidates must have a Master's degree or a professional degree recognized as equivalent to a Master's by the appropriate regulatory authority, with at least 55% marks in aggregate. Some of the popular entrance exams for a Ph.D. in International Relations include UGC NET and CSIR NET.

A Ph.D. in International Relations equips students with advanced leadership, strategy, and research skills, opening doors to international consulting, research, entrepreneurship, and academic careers. Some of the job roles available for them are international consultants, Policy Analyst, and Public Relations Specialist.

Salaries for fresh PhD graduates are competitive and vary by sector and expertise. PhD holders in International Relations can expect an average package in the range of INR 20-24 lakhs per annum.

PhD in International Relations Course Highlights

The basic details of a Ph.D. in International Relations are as follows:

What is a Ph.D. International Relations?

A Ph.D. in International Relations is an academic degree that provides a focus on studying global issues, diplomacy, international conflicts, economics, and global governance. The course provides in-depth knowledge on how countries interact with each other and how policies affect global peace and security. The course covers important topics like international law, human rights, global trade, and foreign policy.

After a Ph.D. in International Relations, one can pursue a career as a university professor, researcher, international consultant, and policy analyst. After completion of the course, one can work in international organizations like the UN or the World Bank.

Why Study Ph.D. International Relations?

A Ph.D. in International Relations is a field of study that opens diverse career opportunities in academia, government organizations, international NGOs, and private-sector firms. With the increase of global issues like climate change, security threats, and international trade, the demand for experts is also rising.

After completion of the course, one can lead a career in foreign policy, contributing to organizations like the United Nations or international media outlets. As global interconnectedness grows, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is also rising.

Ph.D. International Relations Eligibility

Students should have the following eligibility to take admission to the Ph.D. in International Relations:

• The candidates must have a Master's degree or a professional degree recognized as equivalent to a Master's by the appropriate regulatory authority, with at least 55% marks in aggregate.
• Some of the popular entrance exams for a Ph.D. in International Relations include UGC NET and CSIR NET.

Ph.D. International Relations Entrance Exams

Some of the popular entrance exams for a Ph.D. International Relations include UGC NET and CSIR NET.

PhD in International Relations Syllabus

Ph.D. in International Relations includes Research Methodology, Foreign Policy Analysis, International Law and Diplomacy, Theories of International Relations, International Political Economy, Global Political Economy, and Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies.

Top Colleges in India for PhD in International Relations

Some of the top colleges for Ph.D. International Relations based on NIRF Ranking 2024 is as follows:

PhD in International Relations Vs MA in International Relations

A PhD in International Relations is an advanced degree that involves the study of security studies, global governance, and international political economy. The course is more focused on theories, methodologies, and original research.

After completing a PhD in International Relations, graduates can pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, or can work as diplomatic advisors, foreign policy analysts, or international consultants.

M.A. in International Relations is a more practical programme that covers topics like international diplomacy, conflict resolution, foreign policy, and global organizations. The course is designed to provide students with more practical knowledge.

After completing an M.A. in International Relations, one can lead to a career in international business and international law, or can work as foreign affairs specialists,  international relations managers, or public relations officers.

PhD in International Relations Jobs

The basic details of jobs after a Ph.D. in International Relations are as follows:

• Industry: A Ph.D. in International Relations can lead to jobs in a variety of sectors, including academic research, government, international organizations, and NGOs.
• Employment Demand: A Ph.D. in International Relations is in high demand, offering job opportunities in academia, government, and international organizations as Policy Analyst, International Consultant, and Public Relations Specialist.

• Average Salary: The average salary after a PhD in International Relations varies depending on experience, industry, and location. The entry-level positions offer a salary range of INR 8-10 lakhs per annum.

There are various job roles available for a  PhD in International Relations. As per Payscale, the average package of various job roles according to the years of experience is mentioned in the table below:

PhD in International Relations FAQs