PhD Degree in Political Science- About Minimum Qualification, Universities, And Admission 2025-26

About This Course

A PhD in Political Science is a doctoral-level program focused on advanced academic and research training in the study of political systems, governance, policies, and political theory. This degree can be pursued full-time or part-time, with the typical duration being 3 years for full-time students and up to 5 years for part-time students. It is designed for postgraduate students with a strong interest in political science who wish to engage in original research and make a meaningful contribution to the field.

Overview of the Program

The PhD program in Political Science provides a deep understanding of power, governance, political behavior, and institutional dynamics at local, national, and international levels. Students explore a wide array of topics, including:

• Political theory and philosophy
• Public administration and policy
• Comparative politics
• International relations
• Gender and development
• Electoral studies and governance

The program emphasizes rigorous methodological training, covering both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. This ensures candidates can undertake original research that is both scholarly and impactful. Faculty advisors with expertise in diverse areas, including political philosophy, state politics, international relations, and public policy, provide close mentorship to guide research design, data analysis, and publication.

Through a combination of advanced coursework, independent research, and academic engagement, the PhD program prepares students to:

• Contribute to academic debates
• Inform policymaking
• Shape public discourse on critical political issues

Learning Environment

The PhD program offers a rigorous academic experience, exploring the complexities of political systems, governance, and political practice. Students at the Bengaluru campus benefit from a stimulating intellectual environment, where politics is studied in connection with economics, sociology, international relations, and psychology.

Graduates develop:

• A deep understanding of political theory and its applications
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• The ability to conduct independent, original research
• Expertise to advance knowledge and scholarship in political science

Career Prospects

A PhD in Political Science is a highly respected academic qualification. Graduates are well-positioned for:

• Academic roles such as university teaching and research positions
• Research roles in think tanks and policy institutes
• Professional opportunities in government, international organizations, and private sectors

Alumni of top programs are often sought after for teaching and research positions globally.

Eligibility

To pursue a PhD in Political Science at Desh Bhagat University (DBU), candidates must meet specific educational and academic requirements. These ensure that applicants are well-prepared for advanced research in the field.

Educational Qualifications

• Candidates must have a Master’s degree in Political Science or a closely related field such as:
• International Relations
• Public Administration
• Public Policy
• Political Theory
• Security and Strategic Studies
• The minimum required score is 55% marks or an equivalent Grade B on the UGC 7-point scale.
• Candidates who have completed an M.Phil. in Political Science are also eligible.
• Applicants holding professional degrees equivalent to a Master’s degree, as recognized by the relevant statutory body, can also apply.

Relaxation for Reserved Categories

• As per UGC guidelines, candidates from SC/ST/OBC categories are eligible for a 5% relaxation, meaning the minimum required marks for them is 50%.

NET/JRF Exemption

• Candidates who have cleared the UGC NET (National Eligibility Test) or JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) in Political Science or a related subject are exempted from the entrance test.
• However, all candidates must appear for the interview, regardless of NET/JRF status.

These eligibility criteria ensure that candidates possess the necessary academic foundation and research aptitude to undertake in-depth study and original research in Political Science.

PhD in Political Science – Admission Process

Admission to a PhD in Political Science is usually based on merit and/or entrance examinations. Different universities and colleges in India may follow slightly different procedures, but the general process involves evaluating academic performance, entrance exam scores, and research potential.

Merit-Based Admission

Some universities and colleges offer admission based on the candidate’s marks in the postgraduate (Master’s) degree. Key points for merit-based selection include:

• Candidates must complete and submit the application form to the respective college or university.
• Postgraduate exam scores are considered, and candidates must check the cutoff lists released by the institution.
• Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for the PhD program.

Entrance-Based Admission

Many institutions conduct entrance exams to select candidates for PhD programs. The general procedure involves:

1. Application Submission – Candidates complete and submit the PhD application form.
2. Entrance Exam Registration – Candidates register for the entrance exam conducted by the university.
3. Qualifying the Exam – Candidates must obtain the minimum qualifying marks set by the institution.
4. Personal Interview – Candidates who pass the entrance exam are called for an interview to discuss their research proposal and academic interests.
5. Merit List – A merit list of shortlisted candidates is published.
6. Admission – Candidates complete the admission process by paying the course fee.

Popular Entrance Exams for PhD in Political Science

Some widely recognized entrance exams include:

• RET (Research Entrance Test) – Conducted by the University of Calcutta, Kolkata.
• PET (PhD Entrance Test) – Conducted by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (BAMU), Aurangabad.
• UGC NET – Conducted nationally by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for eligibility as Assistant Professors and Junior Research Fellowship.
• CRET (Combined Research Entrance Test) – Conducted by Assam University, Silchar for MPhil and PhD admissions.
• DUET (Delhi University Entrance Test) – Conducted by Delhi University for PhD admissions.
• GATE – Some institutes, including IITs, NITs, IIITs, BITS, VIT, and SRM, accept GATE scores for PhD programs in humanities, architecture, and life sciences.

PhD Admission at Desh Bhagat University (DBU)

The PhD in Political Science admission at DBU is conducted in two stages:

Stage 1: Entrance Test

The entrance test evaluates a candidate’s readiness for research and is divided into four sections:

1. Section A – Research Methodology (30 marks): Tests knowledge of research techniques and methodology.
2. Section B – Functional English Language (15 marks): Assesses academic English proficiency for writing and reading.
3. Section C – Functional Knowledge of Computers (15 marks): Evaluates computer skills, internet research, and data management.
4. Section D – Subject-Specific Questions (40 marks): Covers Master’s-level Political Science topics, including political theory, governance, public policy, and international relations.

Stage 2: Interview

• Candidates who pass the entrance test are invited for an interview with the Department Research Committee.
• During the interview, candidates present their research proposal and discuss their research interests.
• The committee evaluates the candidate’s research capability, clarity of thought, and alignment of the proposed research with the university’s objectives.

Final Admission

• Admission is granted based on combined performance in the entrance test and the interview.

Future Scope

Graduates of PhD programs in Political Science have a wide array of career opportunities in academia, government, research, international organizations, media, and NGOs. The program equips students with analytical skills, research expertise, and a deep understanding of political systems, preparing them to make meaningful contributions locally, nationally, and globally.

The PhD in Political Science fosters a sense of social responsibility and encourages original research, enabling graduates to address complex political, social, and governance challenges. Students gain a global perspective, preparing them for leadership roles in both Indian and international political arenas.

Potential Career Paths

1. Academia

• University Professor or Lecturer in Political Science
• Research Scholar guiding students and contributing to academic publications

1. Government and Policy Advisory Roles

• Policy Advisor in government departments or ministries
• Public Policy Consultant shaping political decision-making

1. Think Tanks and Research Institutions

• Researcher or Director at national and international think tanks
• Conducting studies on governance, security, public policy, and international relations

1. International Organizations

• Roles at the United Nations, World Bank, World Trade Organization, and other global institutions
• Advising on global governance, diplomacy, and international policy

1. Media and Journalism

• Political Analyst, Commentator, or Journalist
• Contributing expertise on national and international politics

1. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

• Working on human rights, democracy promotion, political activism, and advocacy
• Driving policy and research initiatives for social change

Examples of Positions Held by PhD Graduates

• Assistant Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship
• Stanton Nuclear Security Postdoctoral Research Fellow
• Assistant Professor of International Relations
• Senior Policy Advisor
• Research Director
• Political Strategist
• Chief Political Analyst
• Director of NGOs or Advocacy Groups