PhD International Studies is a 3-6 year research-focused course offered across various colleges and universities in the country, which focuses on global interactions and complex relationships between nations. A PhD in International Studies is the highest level of academic degree in the field of geopolitics, international studies, and global affairs.
The eligibility criteria for the Ph D in International Studies is that the students must hold a master’s degree in the relevant field with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognized university. The admission to the course is based on a valid entrance examination, such as UGC NET/CSIR NET/GATE, etc.
The average course fees for a PhD in International Studies vary from INR 80,000 – 3,00,000 depending on the type of institute. Some of the colleges offering a PhD in International Studies include Shiv Nadar University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, South Asian University, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and Jindal School of International Affairs.
A PhDin International Studies course is associated with various job profiles and career opportunities in government offices and international organizations. Top job profiles include Policy Analyst, Research Scientist, Foreign Service Officer, Professor, Policy Advisor, and International Organisations. The average salary graduates can earn after earning the PhD degree ranges from INR 7 LPA – 12 LPA.
Table of Contents
- Ph D in International Studies Key Highlights
- What is a Ph.D in International Studies?
- Why Study a PhD in International Studies?
- Who should study for the PhD International Studies course?
- PhD International Studies Eligibility Criteria
- PhD International Studies Entrance Exams 2025
- PhD in International Studies Colleges in India
- PhD in International Studies Admission Process 2025
- Ph.D in International Studies Syllabus
- Ph.D in International Studies Job Opportunities in India
- Ph.D in International Studies Vs PhD Political Science Comparison
- Ph.D in International Studies FAQs
Ph D in International Studies Key Highlights
Given below are some of the PhD in International Studies key highlights:
What is a Ph.D in International Studies?
A PhD in International Studies is a 3-6 year research-focused course offered across various colleges and universities in the country, which focuses on the multifaceted aspects of global interactions by understanding the complex relationships between nations, covering areas like international relations, foreign policy, security, law, trade, and cultural exchange. The course deeply encourages problem-solving and critical analysis of global issues, the development of theoretical frameworks, and original research contributions during the entire course.
A PhD in International Studies is the highest level of academic degree in the field of global affairs and international studies, which focuses extensively on the research of the political, economic, social, and cultural interactions between different nations.
Why Study a PhD in International Studies?
The PhD in International Studies is a highly preferred program among students interested in research about International Studies and learning about geopolitics; hence, it is offered in different colleges and universities in India.
The reasons to opt for a Ph.D. International Studies is given below:
- The course of a PhD in International Studies opens gateways and multiple opportunities for researchers and academicians, leading to securing top positions in reputable institutions and universities worldwide, paving the way for excellent careers in both academics and research.
- A strong policy-making- A PhD in International Studies often contributes to shaping national and international policies by providing evidence-based insights, working with think tanks, or advising policymakers on complex global challenges.
- Global careers- Having a PhD often opens up multiple opportunities and careers, and it also helps students secure international corporate job opportunities and academic research roles.
- Personal fulfillment- There is a sense of fulfillment in the minds of those wanting to pursue a PhD as they are highly driven by curiosity and a passion for research; hence, it is also one of the key reasons why students should pursue a PhD in International Studies.
Who should study for the PhD International Studies course?
Reasons, which include individuals who might be a good choice for pursuing a PhD in International Studies in different colleges in India, are mentioned below:
- Future diplomats and policy advisors- Students and professionals aiming to work in foreign services, embassies, or as advisors to government agencies on global affairs will benefit greatly from the deep understanding of international relations this program provides, and hence they should opt for a PhD in International Studies.
- Those students and professionals who are interested in working with organizations that influence public policy, human rights advocacy, conflict resolution, or global development initiatives will find the course highly relevant and interesting, prompting them to opt for a PhD International Studies.
- Students who want to become professors and want to teach at a higher university level, and want to become researchers, should choose to study a PhD course in International Studies.
- A PhD International Studies helps students develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The students are driven by curiosity to explore and address complex challenges such as climate change, migration, international security, and economic inequality on a worldwide scale will find this course an ideal fit.
PhD International Studies Eligibility Criteria
To secure a seat in the top colleges and institutes in India for a PhD International Studies course, a student must meet the following eligibility criteria to be selected for further application and the admission process. The detailed eligibility criteria are mentioned below:
- The students must hold a master's degree such as MBA in International Business or an M.Phil. in a related field, such as Political Science or International Relations, with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognized university.
- Students must appear for entrance exams such as UGC NET/ CSIR-NET/ GATE.
- Many colleges and universities may also conduct personal interview rounds as a part of the selection process. In such a round, the students must present a research proposal.
- Students belonging to SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories are often given relaxation during the admission process.
PhD International Studies Entrance Exams 2025
To secure a seat in the top colleges in the country for a Ph.D. In International Studies, the student has to appear for various entrance examinations. The details about the entrance examination for pursuing a Ph.D. in International Studies have been listed in the table below:
PhD in International Studies Colleges in India
Mentioned below are some of the best PhD International Studies Colleges in India. Let’s have a look at them:
PhD in International Studies Admission Process 2025
To secure a seat in the top colleges for the PhD in International Studies in India, the student must follow a few steps first. Initially, the student must meet the eligibility criteria of the course and then fill out the application form. The detailed procedure for securing a seat in Shiv Nadar University is given below:
Step 1- The students must choose the different entrance exams for a PhD International Studies course that they want to appear for, which may include UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, GATE, etc.
Step 2- Interested students can apply online on the official website of the college, and then proceed with the filling of their personal and academic details.
Step 3- The students then need to upload all the relevant documents and proceed with the payment of the application fee.
Step 4- The students have to check for the dates of the entrance exams, etc, and appear for the exam on the specified date. In case the student hasn't appeared for any university-specific exam, then in this case, the student’s score in UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, GATE, etc., will be taken into consideration.
Step 5 - After the students have taken their exams, they must check the website again for their results. Once the results are announced, they have to keep the scorecard and save it for future reference.
Step 6- The final selection of the students will be based on their performance in the entrance exams and the personal interview round. Shortlisted candidates may be called for a personal interview round to present their research proposal to finalize their application further.
Step 7- The final selected students will be required to submit their original documents and get them verified by the college itself.
Step 8- The selected students will be required to confirm their admission by paying the admission fee.
Documents Required
- Post-graduation mark sheet
- Identity proof such as an Aadhar card, PAN Card
- An entrance exam scorecard
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Category certificate, if applicable
- Bank details
Ph.D in International Studies Syllabus
A PhD in International Studies is a 3-6 year full-time research program offered across different colleges and universities in India. The papers taught during the entire course at South Asian University are mentioned below:
Ph.D in International Studies Job Opportunities in India
Multiple job opportunities and careers are associated with a Ph.D. in International Studies in India, which are mentioned below in the table:
Ph.D in International Studies Vs PhD Political Science Comparison
Below is a detailed comparison of a PhD in International Studies and a PhD in Political Science. Students who are unsure about which program to pursue can refer to the table to make an informed decision.
Ph.D in International Studies FAQs
Can someone pursue a PhD in International Studies through part-time or distance learning in India?
Yes. The course of a Ph D International Studies can also be pursued through part-time or distance learning in India. Many universities in India offer a part-time PhD program in International Studies for working professionals. However, many colleges and universities do not offer distance learning as it is not permitted for PhD programs as per the UGC guidelines.
Do colleges and universities offer fellowships or stipends to students while they are pursuing a PhD in International Studies?
Yes. Many colleges and universities offer fellowships or stipends to students while they are pursuing a PhD in International Studies. Many top-ranked colleges and universities offer grants and stipends to students that range from INR 25,000- 30,000 per month to support the students and offer them travel support for conferences. Many private universities also offer university-specific scholarships and project-based funding based on the merit of the student and the availability of resources.
Is it mandatory to submit a research proposal during the application for a PhD in International Studies?
Yes. During the application for a PhD International Studies course, the student must present a research proposal that outlines their intended area of study, objectives, and methodology, as it is a critical component of most Ph.D. applications. And hence, a research proposal must be presented during the interview round.
What is the main focus of a Ph D International Studies program?
A Ph D International Studies focuses on advanced research in global affairs, diplomacy, international law, global governance, and foreign policy. The course prepares the students for various careers in academia, government, think tanks, and international organizations through an interdisciplinary approach combining politics, economics, and cultural studies.
What skills are required for a successful career in a Ph D International Studies?
A few essential skills are required to have a successful career after completing a Ph D International Studies, including excellent analytical thinking, research skills, communication abilities, and an in-depth understanding of global politics are crucial. Apart from this, knowing foreign languages, data analysis, and familiarity with international law and economics can offer a competitive edge, potentially leading to a successful career in both academic and non-academic roles.
