top political science phd programs in the world

Best Universities for Political Science in the World

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in the World ranked based on their research performance in Political Science. A graph of 310M citations received by 18.3M academic papers made by 6,606 universities in the World was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Harvard University

For Political Science

2. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

3. Stanford University

4. University of California - Berkeley

5. University of Toronto

6. University of Oxford

7. Columbia University

8. University College London

9. University of Washington - Seattle

10. University of Chicago

11. Yale University

12. Cornell University

13. University of Pennsylvania

14. University of California - Los Angeles

15. New York University

16. University of Cambridge

17. Pennsylvania State University

18. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

19. Johns Hopkins University

20. University of Wisconsin - Madison

21. University of British Columbia

22. University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

23. University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

24. Ohio State University

25. University of Melbourne

26. University of Sydney

27. University of Texas at Austin

28. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

29. London School of Economics and Political Science

30. University of Manchester

31. University of Southern California

32. Princeton University

33. Catholic University of Leuven

34. Michigan State University

35. Arizona State University - Tempe

36. King's College London

37. University of Maryland - College Park

38. University of Amsterdam

39. Duke University

40. Carnegie Mellon University

41. University of Sao Paulo

42. University of Queensland

43. University of Pittsburgh

44. University of Virginia

45. Rutgers University - New Brunswick

46. Monash University

47. University of California-San Diego

48. University of New South Wales

49. University of Arizona

50. University of Florida

51. McGill University

52. Australian National University

53. University of Hong Kong

54. University of Ottawa

55. University of California - San Francisco

56. University of Bristol

57. Northwestern University

58. University of Liege

59. University of Edinburgh

60. University of California - Davis

61. University of Alberta

62. Boston University

63. National University of Singapore

64. University of Sheffield

65. University of Birmingham

66. University of Montreal

67. University of Nottingham

68. Texas A&M University - College Station

69. University of Warwick

70. McMaster University

71. University of Leeds

72. Utrecht University

73. Imperial College London

74. University of California - Irvine

75. University of Illinois at Chicago

76. Georgetown University

77. Washington University in St Louis

78. Emory University

79. University of Iowa

80. Vanderbilt University

81. University of Copenhagen

82. University of Glasgow

83. University of Zurich

84. University of Utah

85. Erasmus University Rotterdam

86. George Washington University

87. University of Calgary

88. University of Rochester

89. Western University

90. University of London

91. Georgia Institute of Technology

92. York University

93. University of Massachusetts - Amherst

94. Tsinghua University

95. Peking University

96. Indiana University - Bloomington

97. University of Southampton

98. University of California - Santa Barbara

99. University of Sussex

100. University of York

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences subfields in the World

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2025 Best Political Science & Government Doctor's Degree Schools

For its 2025 ranking, College Factual looked at 21 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for political science & government students pursuing a doctor's degree. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 737 doctor's degrees in political science & government during the <nil> academic year.

What's on this page: * Our Methodology

• Best Doctor’s Degree Schools List

Featured Political Science & Government Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

BA in Political Science

Gain a solid understanding of American political history, the current political landscape, and the major political parties with this online bachelor's from Southern New Hampshire University.

Choosing a Great Political Science & Government School for Your Doctor's Degree

Overall Quality Is a Must

A school that excels in educating for a particular major and degree level must be a great school overall as well. To account for this we consider a school's overall Best Colleges for a Doctor's Degree ranking which itself looks at a collection of different factors like degree completion, educational resources, student body caliber and post-graduation earnings for the school as a whole.

Average Early-Career Salaries

Average early-career salary of those graduating with their doctor's degree is one indicator we use in our analysis to find the schools that offer the highest-quality education. That is, everyone wants their doctor's degree to be worth something, and salaries are one measure of determining that.

Other Factors We Consider

The metrics below are just some of the other metrics that we use to determine our rankings.

• Major Focus - How much a school focuses on political science & government students vs. other majors.
• Major Demand - The number of political science & government students who choose to seek a doctor's degree at the school.
• Educational Resources - How many resources are allocated to students. These resources may include educational expenditures per student, number of students per instructor, and graduation rate among other things.
• Student Debt - How much debt political science & government students go into to obtain their doctor's degree and how well they are able to pay back that debt.
• Accreditation - Whether a school is regionally accredited and/or accredited by a recognized political science & government related body.

Our full ranking methodology documents in more detail how we consider these factors to identify the best schools for political science & government students working on their doctor's degree.

More Ways to Rank Political Science & Government Schools

When choosing the right school for you, it's important to arm yourself with all the facts you can. To that end, we've created a number of major-specific rankings , including this Best Political Science & Government Doctor's Degree Schools list to help you make the college decision.

Best Schools for Doctorate Students to Study Political Science & Government in the United States

Learn about the top ranked colleges and universities for political science & government students seeking a a doctor's degree.

10 Top Schools for a Doctorate in Political Science

Any student pursuing a degree in a doctor's degree in political science & government has to check out University of Pennsylvania. UPenn is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Philadelphia. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from University of Pennsylvania

Duke University is one of the finest schools in the United States for getting a doctor's degree in political science & government. Duke is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Durham. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Duke University

Johns Hopkins University is a great option for students interested in a doctor's degree in political science & government. Located in the large city of Baltimore, Johns Hopkins is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Johns Hopkins University

Columbia University in the City of New York is a good decision for students pursuing a doctor's degree in political science & government. Columbia is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of New York. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Columbia University in the City of New York

Yale is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of New Haven. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Yale University

Located in the medium-sized city of Cambridge, Harvard is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Harvard University

Located in the suburb of Stanford, Stanford is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Stanford University

Located in the small city of Evanston, Northwestern is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Northwestern University

UChicago is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Chicago. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from University of Chicago

Notre Dame is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the suburb of Notre Dame. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from University of Notre Dame

Political Science & Government by Region

View the Best Political Science & Government Doctor's Degree Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Best associate degrees in political science & government, best master's degrees in political science & government, best value in political science & government, best for non-traditional students in political science & government, best online in political science & government, most popular online in political science & government, best bachelor's degrees in political science & government, best overall in political science & government, highest paid grads in political science & government, best for veterans in political science & government, most popular in political science & government, most focused in political science & government.

View All Rankings >

Rankings in Majors Related to Political Science

One of 13 majors within the Social Sciences area of study, Political Science & Government has other similar majors worth exploring.

Political Science Concentrations

Most popular related majors, notes and references.

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
• Credit for the banner image above goes to UKWiki at English Wikipedia . More about our data sources and methodologies .

Popular Reports

Compare your school options.

Top Political Science Phd Programs

A political science PhD opens doors to university teaching and research positions, high-level government jobs, political consulting, journalism, and leadership roles at influential think tanks and nonprofits.

But not all programs equip students with the rigorous research skills, broad knowledge, and professional development needed to succeed. The top political science doctoral programs provide world-class faculty, research resources, funding, career support, and graduates highly sought after by employers.

Here’s a quick look at some of the very best political science PhD programs, including standout departments at Harvard, Stanford, Princeton, Yale, and more.

Harvard University

Harvard University is widely regarded as one of the top institutions for political science PhD programs. With its prestigious reputation and extensive resources, Harvard offers a comprehensive and rigorous academic experience for aspiring political scientists.

Faculty expertise

One of the key strengths of Harvard’s political science program is its renowned faculty. The department boasts a diverse group of scholars who are leaders in their respective fields. From international relations to comparative politics, students have the opportunity to work with experts who are at the forefront of research and analysis.

This wealth of knowledge and experience ensures that students receive a well-rounded education and have access to cutting-edge insights in their chosen area of study.

Research centers

Harvard University is home to several prestigious research centers that provide students with valuable opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and research. These centers focus on a wide range of political science topics, such as public policy, democracy, and global governance.

Through these centers, students can engage in cutting-edge research projects, attend conferences and workshops, and network with leading scholars and practitioners in their field. This exposure to real-world applications and collaborations enhances students’ research skills and broadens their understanding of political science.

Funding and admissions

Harvard’s political science PhD program offers competitive funding packages to admitted students. These packages typically include full tuition coverage, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance.

The university also provides opportunities for additional funding through research assistantships and fellowships. The admissions process is highly selective, with only a small percentage of applicants being admitted each year.

Prospective students are evaluated based on their academic achievements, research potential, and fit with the program’s goals and values.

Stanford University

When it comes to top political science PhD programs, Stanford University is definitely a name that stands out. With its prestigious reputation and commitment to academic excellence, Stanford offers a program that is highly regarded in the field of political science.

Interdisciplinary approach

One of the key strengths of Stanford’s political science PhD program is its interdisciplinary approach. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics and perspectives, integrating insights from various disciplines such as sociology, economics, psychology, and history.

This interdisciplinary approach allows students to gain a deeper understanding of political phenomena and develop unique research perspectives.

Overseas studies

Stanford University recognizes the importance of global perspectives in the study of political science. The program offers numerous opportunities for students to engage in overseas studies, whether through research projects, internships, or exchange programs.

By immersing themselves in different political systems and cultures, students gain invaluable firsthand experiences and broaden their understanding of global politics.

Career development

Stanford’s political science PhD program is committed to providing students with the necessary skills and resources for successful careers in academia, government, and beyond. The university offers extensive support for career development, including mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and professional workshops.

Additionally, Stanford’s location in the heart of Silicon Valley offers unique connections to tech and innovation, opening up even more career possibilities for graduates.

Princeton University

Princeton University is widely recognized as one of the top institutions for studying political science at the doctoral level. The university’s program offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum, preparing students for successful careers in academia, research, and policy-making.

Research strengths

Princeton University’s political science department boasts a diverse and highly esteemed faculty, whose research interests span a wide range of topics within the field. From comparative politics to international relations, students at Princeton have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and contribute to the advancement of political science knowledge.

The department also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections with other disciplines such as economics, sociology, and psychology.

Dual degree options

One unique feature of Princeton’s political science program is its dual degree options. Students have the opportunity to pursue a joint degree in public affairs, law, or international relations alongside their PhD in political science.

These dual degree programs provide students with a broader perspective and enhance their understanding of the intersection between politics and other fields, opening up additional career opportunities upon graduation.

Stipends and grants

Princeton University is committed to supporting its political science PhD students financially. The university provides generous stipends and grants to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. This financial support allows students to focus on their research and studies without the burden of financial stress.

Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for external grants and fellowships, further enhancing their financial support during their time at Princeton.

Yale University

Yale University offers one of the top Political Science PhD programs in the United States. With its long-standing reputation for academic excellence, Yale provides students with a rigorous and comprehensive education in the field of political science.

Specialized programs

One of the key strengths of Yale’s Political Science PhD program is its specialized programs. Students have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of subfields within political science, including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and American politics.

This allows students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals, ensuring a highly personalized and enriching educational experience.

Moreover, Yale’s Political Science department boasts a stellar faculty who are leaders in their respective fields. These professors are not only experts in their areas of study but are also committed to mentoring and guiding students throughout their academic journey.

Hands-on learning

At Yale, students are encouraged to engage in hands-on learning experiences that complement their coursework. The university offers various research opportunities, internships, and study abroad programs that allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

For instance, students can participate in research projects led by faculty members or collaborate with fellow students on groundbreaking research. This hands-on approach to learning not only enhances students’ understanding of political science but also prepares them for future careers in academia, research, or public service.

Generous funding

Yale University is known for its generous funding options for graduate students. The Political Science PhD program offers a range of fellowships, scholarships, and assistantships to support students financially throughout their studies.

These funding opportunities not only cover tuition fees but also provide a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to focus on their research and academic pursuits without the burden of financial stress.

Additionally, students have access to various grants and opportunities for conference travel and research funding, further enhancing their educational experience at Yale.

University of California, Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley is widely recognized as one of the top institutions for Political Science PhD programs. The university offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that prepares students for careers in academia, government, and research.

Here are some key factors that make Berkeley stand out:

One of the major strengths of Berkeley’s Political Science PhD program is its exceptional faculty. The department boasts a distinguished faculty with expertise in various subfields of political science, including international relations, comparative politics, political theory, and American politics.

These renowned scholars not only provide excellent mentorship but also actively engage in cutting-edge research, which creates a stimulating academic environment for students.

Research centers and groups

Berkeley is home to several prestigious research centers and groups that further enhance the learning experience for Political Science PhD students. These include the Institute of Governmental Studies, the Center for the Study of Law and Society, and the Berkeley Center for Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity.

These research centers provide students with unique opportunities to collaborate with experts, access extensive resources, and contribute to groundbreaking research projects.

Berkeley offers competitive funding packages to its Political Science PhD students, ensuring that they can focus on their studies without financial concerns. The department provides various fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching opportunities that not only cover tuition expenses but also provide a stipend for living expenses.

In terms of admissions, Berkeley’s Political Science PhD program is highly selective, attracting top-notch applicants from around the world. The admissions committee evaluates candidates based on their academic accomplishments, research potential, and fit with the department’s research interests.

For more information about the University of California, Berkeley’s Political Science PhD program, you can visit their official website here .

A political science PhD from an esteemed program like Harvard, Stanford, Princeton, Yale, or UC Berkeley provides the rigorous research training, broad expertise, abundant resources, generous funding, and career development needed to succeed as a scholar, government leader, consultant, analyst, and in other influential roles.

Graduates of these top-ranked PhD programs are highly sought after by employers in academia, government, think tanks, nonprofits, and more.

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Top 10 Universities in the World for Studying Political Science

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Are you enthusiastic about politics and considering pursuing a degree in political science? If so, you’re likely curious about the best universities for studying this field. In honour of the International Day of Democracy tomorrow, we’ve published a list of the best universities in the world for studying politics.

Political science encompasses a wide array of topics, from political theory to comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. Graduates in this field can embark on careers in academia, government, media, non-governmental organisations, and think tanks. To aid you in selecting the ideal university to match your interests and aspirations, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 universities for politics studies worldwide, according to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject .

1. Harvard University

Harvard University secures the top spot for studying politics according to the QS rankings. With a rich history dating back to the 18th century, Harvard’s Department of Government offers exceptional programmes in American politics, international relations, political theory, and more. Notable research centres like the Center for International Development and the Institute of Politics further enrich the learning experience.

2. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford ranks second globally and first in Europe for political science studies. Its Department of Politics and International Relations presents diverse programmes in comparative government, international relations, political theory, and public policy. Esteemed research centres including the Blavatnik School of Government contribute to Oxford’s academic excellence.

3. Sciences Po

Sciences Po in Paris, France holds the third spot in global political science studies. Focusing on social sciences, especially politics and international studies, Sciences Po provides programmes in comparative politics, international relations, and political sociology. Research centres like the Center for European Studies and Comparative Politics underline its commitment to cutting-edge research.

4. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The London School of Economics and Political Science is ranked fourth for political science studies. Renowned for social sciences, LSE’s Department of Government offers programmes in democracy, global governance, and public administration. Its research centres such as the European Institute contribute significantly to the field.

5. Stanford University

Stanford University secures the fifth position in the QS rankings, and is the leading university for politics studies in the US West Coast. Its Department of Political Science offers programmes in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and more. The presence of research centres like The Center on Democracy, Development, and The Rule of Law emphasises Stanford’s commitment to advancing political science.

6. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge ranks sixth globally for political science studies. It’s still “only” the third-ranking university in the United Kingdom, showcasing just how good the political studies landscape is in the UK. Cambridge’s Department of Politics and International Studies presents programmes in comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. Research centres like The Centre for Geopolitics underscore Cambridge’s commitment to political research.

7. Princeton University

Princeton University ranks seventh globally for political science studies. Its Department of Politics presents programs in American politics, international relations, and formal theory. Research centres such as The Center for International Security Studies underline Princeton’s dedication to political scholarship.

8. Yale University

Yale University comes in at number eight for politics studies. Its Department of Political Science offers programmes in American politics, international relations, and political theory. Notable research centres like The Center for the Study of American Politics further enhance Yale’s academic prowess.

9. University of California, Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley , claims the ninth position in the QS rankings. It’s the fifth US university on this list, meaning that half of the top 10 universities for studying politics are located in the United States, showing just how high-quality the American politics studies landscape really is. UCB’s Department of Political Science offers programmes in various subfields, providing students with insights into American politics, comparative politics, and international relations.

10. Australian National University (ANU)

The Australian National University in Canberra secures the tenth position in the QS rankings. Offering programmes in political science, ANU’s Department of Political and Social Change contributes significantly to the field. Its research centres further elevate ANU’s standing in political scholarship.

Bonus tips for political science studies

Choosing the right university for your political science studies is a pivotal decision that can shape your academic and professional future. Beyond the top 10 institutions mentioned above, here are some extra tips when looking for the best place for you to study:

• Specialisation focus : Some universities excel in specific political science subfields. If you have a clear interest, like international relations or public policy, target institutions with strengths in those areas.
• Faculty expertise : Research faculty members at prospective universities. Professors with expertise in your interests can offer valuable mentorship and research possibilities.
• Research centres : Look for universities with robust research centres related to political science. These centres can offer hands-on experiences and collaborations.
• Global opportunities : Seek out universities with strong study abroad or exchange programmes to gain an international perspective on politics.
• Internship prospects : Consider universities near political hubs, as they may offer internships in government agencies, think tanks, and NGOs.
• Alumni network : A strong alumni network can facilitate career opportunities and valuable connections in the field.
• Class size and interaction : Smaller classes often mean better interaction with professors and peers, fostering a personalised learning environment.
• Research facilities : Comprehensive research facilities and libraries enhance your academic journey.

Last thoughts

These universities stand as pillars of excellence in the realm of political science studies, offering a myriad of programs and research opportunities that empower students to contribute meaningfully to the field. Whether your interests lie in American politics, international relations, or comparative government, these institutions provide a strong foundation for a successful career in the political sphere.

Once you’ve chosen the university you’d like to attend, you’ll need to find a place to live. Student.com is the largest student accommodation provider in the world and we list student accommodation in hundreds of cities worldwide. So when you’re looking for your student home, check us out!

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