Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Relations

PhD(IR)

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Program Overview

International Relations helps students understand the world of politics and the social-historical impact of world transformation and development. Ph.D. in International Relations is a graduate degree program for students who want to pursue a career in research on governance and policy. It is envisaged that graduates of this program will be successfully carrying out research in the domains of global and public policy. Students of this program will study and analyze various political systems and governing policies around the globe, understanding how they link with a broad range of international issues, such as human rights, climate change, global poverty, global ethics etc.

There is an impressive placement record of terminal degree holders of IR in academia, think tanks, government, and bureaucracy within Pakistan as well as in international IGOs, NGOs, and MNCs.

It is important to note that specific admission requirements, application procedures, and available research areas may vary from year to year. Therefore, it is recommended to visit the official website of COMSATS University Islamabad or contacting the university's admissions office for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the PhD International Relations program.

Entry Requirements

  1. Eighteen-year education or equivalent degree in relevant field. MS or M.Phil degree in the same or a relevant field (i.e. MS/M.Phil in History, Political Science, Defense and Strategic Studies, International Politics Economy, Pakistan Studies & LLM from an HEC-recognized University )
  2. With a minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 (in the semester system) or 2nd division (in the annual system).
  3. A valid NTS-GAT Test with a 60% or above score
  4. Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview. The interview aims to assess your motivation, research interests, and suitability for the program.
  5. No third division or D grade is allowed
  6. Applicants are required to submit a copy of synopsis/research work. Admission is subject to the availability of the Supervisor in the field of research and HEC’s requirements.
  7. In-service applicants have to furnish NOC from the employer through Proper Channel or submit it by the end of first semester
  8. Eligible foreign applicants are admitted subject to the provision of NOC/Equivalence Certificate from the HEC.
  9. Need to submit letters of recommendation from academic referees who can attest to your academic abilities, research potential, and suitability for doctoral studies.

Curriculum

Students are required to register and pass 06 graduate level courses as mentioned in the scheme of studies and successfully defend their thesis.

Program Distribution:

Minimum No. of Courses Minimum No. of Credit Hours

  1. PhD Course Work 18
  2. a) Core Courses 02 (06)
  3. b) Elective Courses 04 (12)
  4. PhD Thesis 36

Total Credit Hours – Program 54

LIST OF CORE COURSES

Courses Code

Title

Credit Hours

IRS701

International Relations: Advanced Theories and Practices

3(3,0)

IRS702

Advanced Research Methodology

3(3,0)

 

LIST OF ELECTIVE COURSES

Courses Code

Title

Credit Hours

IRS712

The Changing Global Order: Contemporary Issues in International Strategic Environment

3(3,0)

IRS713

Advanced Course on Foreign Policy Analyses

3(3,0)

IRS714

Comparative Study of Foreign Policies of Major Powers

3(3,0)

IRS715

International Security, Arms Control, and Nuclear Non-Proliferation

3(3,0)

IRS716

International Conflict Resolution and Crisis Management

3(3,0)

IRS718

Global Diplomacy: Diplomacy in the Modern World

3(3,0)

IRS719

Peace Building in Post-conflict Societies

3(3,0)

IRS720

Contemporary Trends in International Law and Use of Force

3(3,0)

IRS721

Dynamics of International Terrorism: Chemical, Biological, Nuclear, and Radiological Terrorism

3(3,0)

IRS722

International Political Economy and the Role of International Financial Institutions in International Relations

3(3,0)

IRS723

Global Issues in International Relations: Contemporary Energy and Environmental Issues

3(3,0)

IRS725

Conflict and Cooperation in South Asia

3(3,0)

 

Sr. #

Course Code

Course Title

Credit Hours

1

IRS800

Thesis

6(6, 0)

 

Career Prospects

  1. Educational and research institutions in both public and private sectors
  2. Governmental organizations and departments
  3. Civil Services of Pakistan, Education branches in Pakistan Army, Air Force and Navy.
  4. International organizations: UNO, SAARC, World Bank, Asian Development Bank
  5. NGO’s working in development sectors
  6. Publishing houses, media houses and news channels, who seek fresh graduates as presenters and content writers
  7. International Business: many international businesses seek employers with skills other than business administration like those taught in political science, communication, and economics

Research Opportunities

  • Digital and Cyber Diplomacy
  • Climate Change and Environmental Diplomacy
  • Global Health Governance
  • Migration and Refugee Crises
  • Human Rights and International Law
  • Geopolitics and Regional Power Dynamics
  • Space Diplomacy
  • Economic Resilience and International Trade
  • Hybrid Warfare and Security
  • Transnational Threats and Non-State Actors

Scholarships Available

HEC offers indigenous Ph.D. scholarships for eligible students to study in higher education institutes of Pakistan. Ph.D. students may also receive a one-time scholarship by HEC to carry out part of their research work in world renowned universities for a period of six months under International Research Support Initiative program (IRSIP). Ph.D. studentships may also be available to work with a principal investigator in funded project of his/her area of expertise.

Contact Information

Incharge Program: Dr Sohail Ahmed, Tenured Associate Professor

Email: sohail.ahmad@comsats.edu.pk

Ext: 051-9049-6070