best college for phd in political science

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2024 Best Political Science & Government Doctor's Degree Schools

For its 2024 ranking, College Factual looked at 103 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for political science & government students pursuing a doctor's degree. Combined, these schools handed out 654 doctor's degrees in political science & government to qualified students.

What's on this page: * Our Methodology

• Best Doctor’s Degree Schools List

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 take this into account we include a school's overall Best Colleges for a Doctor's Degree ranking which itself looks at a host 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 colleges 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.

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.

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

Explore the top ranked colleges and universities for political science & government students seeking a a doctor's degree. Only those schools that rank in the top 15% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.

15 Top Schools for a Doctorate in Political Science

Yale University is a great choice for individuals interested in a doctor's degree in political science & government. Yale is a 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

Harvard University is one of the finest schools in the United States for getting a doctor's degree in political science & government. Located in the medium-sized city of Cambridge, Harvard is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Harvard University

University of Chicago is a good option for individuals pursuing a doctor's degree in political science & government. UChicago is a 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

Columbia University in the City of New York is a great option for individuals interested in 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

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

UPenn is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Philadelphia. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from University of Pennsylvania

Located in the 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

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

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

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

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

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

Located in the 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

WUSTL is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the suburb of Saint Louis. More information about a doctorate in political science & government from Washington University in St Louis

Honorable Mentions

Here are some additional great schools for Political Science & Government students that almost earned our Best Political Science & Government Doctor's Degree Schools award.

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.

Graduate Program

Pushing the Scholarly Frontier

PhD in Political Science

Our doctoral students are advancing political science as a discipline. They explore the empirical phenomena that produce new scholarly insights—insights that improve the way governments and societies function. As a result, MIT Political Science graduates are sought after for top teaching and research positions in the U.S. and abroad. Read where program alumni are working around the world.

How the PhD program works

The MIT PhD in Political Science requires preparation in two of these major fields:

• American Politics
• Comparative Politics
• International Relations
• Models and Methods
• Political Economy
• Security Studies

We recommend that you take a broad array of courses across your two major fields. In some cases, a single course may overlap across the subject matter of both fields. You may not use more than one such course to "double count" for the course distribution requirement. Keep in mind that specific fields may have additional requirements.

You are free to take subjects in other departments across the Institute. Cross-registration arrangements also permit enrollment in subjects taught in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University and in some of Harvard's other graduate schools.

Requirements

1. number of subjects.

You will need two full academic years of work to prepare for the general examinations and to meet other pre-dissertation requirements. Typically, a minimum of eight graduate subjects are required for a PhD.

2. Scope and Methods

This required one-semester seminar for first-year students introduces principles of empirical and theoretical analysis in political science.

3. Statistics

You must successfully complete at least one class in statistics.

You must successfully complete at least one class in empirical research methods.

5. Philosophy

You must successfully complete at least one class in political philosophy.

6. Foreign language or advanced statistics

You must demonstrate reading proficiency in one language other than English by successfully completing two semesters of intermediate-level coursework or an exam in that language, or you must demonstrate your knowledge of advanced statistics by successfully completing three semesters of coursework in advanced statistics. International students whose native language is not English are not subject to the language requirement.

7. Field research

We encourage you to conduct field research and to develop close working ties with faculty members engaged in major research activities.

8. Second Year Paper/workshop

You must complete an article-length research paper and related workshop in the spring semester of the second year. The second-year paper often develops into a dissertation project.

9. Two examinations

In each of your two elected fields, you must take a general written and oral examination. To prepare for these examinations, you should take at least three courses in each of the two fields, including the field seminar.

10. Doctoral thesis

As a rule, the doctoral thesis requires at least one year of original research and data collection. Writing the dissertation usually takes a substantially longer time. The thesis process includes a first and second colloquium and an oral defense. Be sure to consult the MIT Specifications for Thesis Preparation as well as the MIT Political Science Thesis Guidelines . Consult the MIT academic calendar to learn the due date for final submission of your defended, signed thesis.

Questions? Consult the MIT Political Science Departmental Handbook or a member of the staff in the MIT Political Science Graduate Office .

Our PhD in Political Science covers four fields: American government, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. The curriculum introduces students to all four fields, though each student will concentrate on a primary and secondary field.

In The News

An Analysis of Recent Terror Attacks Abroad

Understanding Ferguson

Caring About People is Intrinsic to our Work”

The curriculum introduces students to all four fields: American government, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy and additionally, develops their research skills through a series of interdisciplinary methodology courses.

Our students learn how to develop and conduct ground-breaking research in their own chosen areas of specialty. They master the relevant literature and engage with a range of theories central to political processes, institutions, actors, and ideas in the core scholarly areas of political science. They also have the opportunity to develop expertise in a range of methods from archival research and interviews to statistical analysis and machine learning.

Learn more about the PhD program in Political Science from the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.

• All doctoral students receive a five-year stipend graduate assistantship
• “PoliTea” – doctoral student-led professional development sessions, often in collaboration with departmental faculty, to enhance student publishing, research and teaching
• Departmental and University funding is available for doctoral students’ participation in professional conferences and other skills training programs in the U.S. and abroad
• Opportunities for students to participate in internships, field research, and other experiential learning activities

Our graduates pursue careers within academia and beyond.

Tenure Track: • Bentley University • Beloit College • Simmons University

Non-Tenure Track: • Emmanuel College • Merrimack College • Northeastern University

Postdocs and Research: • Center for Policy Research • The Fletcher School at Tufts University • Wesleyan University

Other Opportunities: • Journal Editor of International Journal of Urban and Regional Research • US Congress

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $100
• Personal statement
• Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended
• English proficiency for international applicants
• Three letters of recommendation
• Scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) – Optional
• Writing sample

Admission deadline for Fall term: December 1

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Political Science

Doctoral Program

Program Overview

The principal goal of the Stanford Ph.D. program in political science is the training of scholars. Most students who receive doctorates in the program do research and teach at colleges or universities. We offer courses and research opportunities in a wide variety of fields in the discipline, including American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, and Political Methodology. The program is built around small seminars that analyze critically the literature of a field or focus on a research problem. These courses prepare students for the Ph.D. comprehensive exam requirement within a two-year period and for work on the doctoral dissertation.

Political Science, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Political Science

The PhD program in political science is intended to develop scholars who demonstrate a high level of excellence in teaching and research as professional political scientists. It offers a variety of areas of specialization within and between the four main subfields of political science: American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory. Students interested in a political theory specialization should consult with the academic unit prior to application.

Program faculty have particular strengths in Latino and Latina politics, women and politics, ethnoreligious dynamics, political violence, human rights, political psychology and political economy.

The school is host to the Center for Latina/os and American Politics Research, the Future Security Initiative and an experimental lab. Faculty are also affiliated with other centers at ASU, such as the Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab; the Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict; the Melikian Center for Russian, Eurasian and East European Studies; as well as the Center for the Study of Economic Liberty. Many faculty members are active in collaborative interdisciplinary research at ASU and with scholars at other universities, and they have won major grants and awards, as have the school's doctoral students.

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (3 credit hours) POS 503 Empirical Political Inquiry (3)

Electives and Research (69 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) POS 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information A maximum of 12 credit hours of approved coursework outside the department but within ASU may count toward the required 84 credit hours.

Coursework beyond the 12-credit-hour maximum may be taken outside the department with permission of both the director of Graduate Studies and the faculty advisor.

When approved by the student's supervisory committee and the Graduate College, this program allows 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used for this degree. If students do not have a previously awarded master's degree, the 30 hours of coursework is made up of electives and research to reach the required 84 credit hours.

Also required is a formal oral defense of the dissertation and a written comprehensive examination in the major field.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• personal statement
• writing sample
• three letters of recommendation
• list of political science courses taken
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

To assist in evaluating all candidates, the applicant should list titles and related information for all previous undergraduate and graduate courses or coursework in political science or related fields. The file must be saved in a .pdf, .doc, .rtf or .txt format and uploaded with the online graduate admission application. The information should be in a table with the following column headings: Course Title, Undergrad Credit Hours, Graduate Credit Hours, Grade, Institution, Year.

Undergraduate coursework in political science is not a prerequisite for admission. However, applicants to the doctoral program should have a basic understanding of elementary statistics and the undergraduate content of the political science fields of specialization that they wish to study. Students without this background should allow sufficient time to acquire it.

The personal statement (one to three pages) should describe the areas of political science the applicant wishes to study, post-graduation goals, and why the School of Politics and Global Studies is the best fit for the applicant. Applicants may also mention any particular faculty members with whom they are interested in working and why, as well as provide context for any discrepancies in their educational background.

The writing sample is typically a previously written research or other similar paper that best demonstrates the applicants critical thinking and writing skills in political science or a related field. There is not a length requirement for the writing sample, but it should be of sufficient level to allow the admissions committee to evaluate the applicant's knowledge and skills.

Students are expected to take courses for the first four semesters that will prepare them for comprehensive exams by the beginning of their fifth semester.  Each subfield has required methods courses, research courses, and core seminars for major and minor fields and these must be included on the IPOS. The faculty advisor and the student will set timelines for course completion and exams, bearing in mind the goal of being prepared to take comprehensive exams by the beginning of the fifth semester at ASU. 

A minimum of 84 hours is required.

Core Courses (3 credits)

POS 503 - Empirical Political Inquiry

Research methods and techniques of the discipline, emphasizing empirical foundations and analytic methods employed in subfields.

Electives and Research (69 credits – 39 if previous MA applied to program)

If your field is American Politics:

• POS 603 - Polimetrics I
• POS 604 - Polimetrics II
• POS 530 - American Politics
• Three elective courses in subfield

If you field is Comparative Politics:

• POS 550 - Comparative Politics

If your field is International Relations:

• POS 560 - International Relations
• POS 604 – Polimetrics II or approved Methods course

Culminating Experience (12 credits)

POS 799 – Dissertation

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, career opportunities.

Program graduates have a strong track record of obtaining positions in academic, public and private sectors. The program works closely with students so they have the opportunity and tools needed to achieve their career goals. The doctoral program provides advanced education for students preparing for teaching, research or applied careers in political science in government, nonprofits and the private sector.

Career examples include:

• campaign consultant
• campaign strategist
• data analyst
• research specialist
• tenure-track or instructional faculty in political science

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-8563

2024 Best Colleges for Political Science in America

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• Accounting/finance
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• Engineering
• Engineering technician
• Environmental science
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• Global studies
• Health care management
• Information technology
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• Political science
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• Religious studies
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• Most diverse
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• Best greek life
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1-25 of 1,340 results

Georgetown University

Washington, DC •

• • Rating 3.8 out of 5   1,270 reviews

Alum: Great mix of academics and social life! Classes can feel competitive, but the school is small enough where you also build camaraderie with classmates. Great access to various events and opportunities in DC and especially wonderful for this interested in public service or research. ... Read 1,270 reviews

• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 12%

Net price $23,049

SAT range 1410-1550

#1 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

WASHINGTON, DC ,

1270 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Great mix of academics and social life! Classes can feel competitive, but the school is small enough where you also build camaraderie with classmates. Great access to various events and opportunities... .

Read 1270 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 12% ,

Net Price : $23,049 ,

SAT Range : 1410-1550 ,

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA •

• • Rating 4.15 out of 5   843 reviews

Alum: Harvard College is a big enough school where you will always meet new people, but simultaneously small enough that you will begin to recognize the faces. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of people who were so willing to step up and help, and did not have any "ego". There are plenty of motivated and passionate people, and enough student groups that everyone can find a place they feel welcome in the college. ... Read 843 reviews

Acceptance rate 4%

Net price $13,910

SAT range 1480-1580

#2 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

843 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Harvard College is a big enough school where you will always meet new people, but simultaneously small enough that you will begin to recognize the faces. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of... .

Read 843 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 4% ,

Net Price : $13,910 ,

SAT Range : 1480-1580 ,

Yale University

New Haven, CT •

• • Rating 4.02 out of 5   1,044 reviews

Freshman: While cliche, I can certainly affirm that the best part about Yale is the people. Whether it's campus life, intramurals, or even just casual hangouts, the diverse array of Yalies and their interesting skills/experiences is what makes Yale great. On the flip side, I'd critique Yale's STEM department, where lots of the teaching has been to my disappointment (whether it's having a grad student teach core classes, being given insufficient test prep materials, horrible lecturing, etc.). ... Read 1,044 reviews

Acceptance rate 5%

Net price $20,605

#3 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

Blue checkmark.

NEW HAVEN, CT ,

1044 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says While cliche, I can certainly affirm that the best part about Yale is the people. Whether it's campus life, intramurals, or even just casual hangouts, the diverse array of Yalies and their... .

Read 1044 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 5% ,

Net Price : $20,605 ,

Hobart and William Smith Colleges

• • Rating 3.4 out of 5   636

Rider University

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ

• • Rating 3.54 out of 5   1,262

Salisbury University

SALISBURY, MD

• • Rating 3.55 out of 5   1,528

University of California - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   5,565 reviews

Freshman: One thing I enjoy about UCLA is all of the opportunities here! As a music major, there are always ways for me to get involved not only in my school (HASoM), but with the College of Letters and Sciences- this includes searching for social, musical, and academic opportunities to extend myself to the community. There's always so much going on here! ... Read 5,565 reviews

Acceptance rate 11%

Net price $13,393

SAT range —

#4 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

5565 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says One thing I enjoy about UCLA is all of the opportunities here! As a music major, there are always ways for me to get involved not only in my school (HASoM), but with the College of Letters and... .

Read 5565 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 11% ,

Net Price : $13,393 ,

Stanford University

Stanford, CA •

• • Rating 4.1 out of 5   1,276 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Stanford University was incredibly enriching and transformative. The academic rigor challenged me to push my boundaries and think critically in diverse fields of study. The vibrant campus culture fostered deep connections with peers and faculty, sparking countless engaging discussions and collaborations. The resources and opportunities available, from research initiatives to extracurricular activities, were unparalleled, allowing me to pursue my interests and passions fully. However, I believe there's room for improvement in terms of diversity and inclusion efforts, ensuring that all students feel equally supported and represented within the Stanford community. Additionally, enhancing accessibility to resources for students from various socioeconomic backgrounds would further enrich the university experience for all. ... Read 1,276 reviews

Net price $14,402

SAT range 1470-1570

#5 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

STANFORD, CA ,

1276 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says My experience at Stanford University was incredibly enriching and transformative. The academic rigor challenged me to push my boundaries and think critically in diverse fields of study. The vibrant... .

Read 1276 reviews.

Net Price : $14,402 ,

SAT Range : 1470-1570 ,

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   466 reviews

Alum: Princeton was a great place to spend my undergraduate years. There are multiple student organizations, supportive mentors, and great classes. They take good care of their undergraduates and provide them with a good foundation to enter the workforce. ... Read 466 reviews

Net price $20,908

SAT range 1460-1570

#6 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

PRINCETON, NJ ,

466 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Princeton was a great place to spend my undergraduate years. There are multiple student organizations, supportive mentors, and great classes. They take good care of their undergraduates and provide... .

Read 466 reviews.

Net Price : $20,908 ,

SAT Range : 1460-1570 ,

• Will you get in? Understand your chances of getting accepted into any college in the country, and it's completely free

Columbia University

New York, NY •

• • Rating 3.83 out of 5   1,346 reviews

Junior: The campus is beautiful and the curriculum is challenging. However, the undergraduate professors do not care very much for undergraduate students, and you have to really advocate for yourself frequently. The deans are very helpful in getting professors in motion, so I recommend getting to know your deans and academic advisors. If your schedule allows you to go to office hours, do it! ... Read 1,346 reviews

Net price $12,411

#7 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

NEW YORK, NY ,

1346 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says The campus is beautiful and the curriculum is challenging. However, the undergraduate professors do not care very much for undergraduate students, and you have to really advocate for yourself... .

Read 1346 reviews.

Net Price : $12,411 ,

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH •

• • Rating 3.88 out of 5   744 reviews

Freshman: Great school! Not super diverse, but it’s easy to find your people. Profs are for the most part amazing and super inspirational. Definitely less competitive than the other Ivies. I have truly had the best time here and gotten to come out of my shell. ... Read 744 reviews

Acceptance rate 6%

Net price $24,078

SAT range 1440-1560

#8 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

HANOVER, NH ,

744 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Great school! Not super diverse, but it’s easy to find your people. Profs are for the most part amazing and super inspirational. Definitely less competitive than the other Ivies. I have truly had the... .

Read 744 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 6% ,

Net Price : $24,078 ,

SAT Range : 1440-1560 ,

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA •

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   1,353 reviews

Alum: I'm so grateful to have spent four years at Penn, a school that gave me opportunities I couldn't have imagined possible before. I studied abroad in France twice. I recorded two albums with my a cappella group. I conducted research for my thesis in Los Angeles. I performed The Vagina Monologues in front of thousands of people. I published academic and creative work for journals, magazines, and one of Penn's libraries. I had unlimited access to free coffee at the most welcoming work-study job. In the same night, I pranced about on one stage as an 18th-century man and rocked out in a ball gown with a band on another stage in downtown Philadelphia. I met some of my best friends on the very first day of my freshman orientation. This was my Penn story from 2012 to 2016. The university looks a lot different for students today, especially in terms of feeling safe to practice their religion, protest peacefully, and voice concerns. I hope Penn prioritizes its students' well-being moving forward. ... Read 1,353 reviews

Net price $14,578

SAT range 1480-1570

#9 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

1353 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I'm so grateful to have spent four years at Penn, a school that gave me opportunities I couldn't have imagined possible before. I studied abroad in France twice. I recorded two albums with my a... .

Read 1353 reviews.

Net Price : $14,578 ,

SAT Range : 1480-1570 ,

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI •

• • Rating 3.95 out of 5   4,680 reviews

Junior: The University of Michigan really lives up to its name. There's an opportunity for everyone here, no matter how obscure or unique your interests are. I am a current film student and have had no difficulties feeling at home and finding clubs despite the large STEM influence. The school does the best to support each student with opportunities, and has phenomenal resources available for students that need aid. For example, they give free tuition for families who make below a particular bench-line, which helps make education more accessible! Overall, this school truly is great. The campus, town, events, resources, education level -- you name it, and it's great. I have truly felt so lucky to be here the past few years. I encourage everyone to apply, and GO BLUE! ... Read 4,680 reviews

Acceptance rate 20%

Net price $19,205

SAT range 1340-1520

#10 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

ANN ARBOR, MI ,

4680 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says The University of Michigan really lives up to its name. There's an opportunity for everyone here, no matter how obscure or unique your interests are. I am a current film student and have had no... Overall, this school truly is great. The campus, town, events, resources, education level -- you name it, and it's great. I have truly felt so lucky to be here the past few years. I encourage... .

Read 4680 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 20% ,

Net Price : $19,205 ,

SAT Range : 1340-1520 ,

Rice University

Houston, TX •

• • Rating 4.09 out of 5   1,117 reviews

Freshman: Amazing diversity, great professors, and world-class research. Especially good for people who like going to small schools with no sororities or fraternities. The financial aid is by far one of the best in the country, although they do kick you out a year during your sophomore or junior year. The academic competition is not as crazy as schools like Harvard or Princeton and the coursework is managaeble, provided you plan it out accordingly. Good recreation center/gym. Overall great school with emphasis on smaller class sizes and community (through the famous residential college system, which Rice is known for --- this is why they compare it to Hogwarts!) ... Read 1,117 reviews

Acceptance rate 9%

Net price $18,521

SAT range 1490-1570

#11 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

HOUSTON, TX ,

1117 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Amazing diversity, great professors, and world-class research. Especially good for people who like going to small schools with no sororities or fraternities. The financial aid is by far one of the... .

Read 1117 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 9% ,

Net Price : $18,521 ,

SAT Range : 1490-1570 ,

Brown University

Providence, RI •

• • Rating 3.84 out of 5   1,079 reviews

Freshman: Attending Brown University was an enriching and transformative experience. I cherished the vibrant community that fostered intellectual curiosity and diversity. The open curriculum allowed me to explore a wide range of subjects, fostering interdisciplinary connections and personal growth. The faculty were not only experts in their fields but also approachable mentors who genuinely cared about students' academic and personal development. I appreciated the emphasis on critical thinking and the encouragement to question assumptions. However, I would suggest enhancing resources for mental health support and increasing accessibility to financial aid for students from underprivileged backgrounds. Overall, Brown provided a nurturing environment that empowered me to thrive academically and personally. ... Read 1,079 reviews

Net price $25,028

#12 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

PROVIDENCE, RI ,

1079 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Attending Brown University was an enriching and transformative experience. I cherished the vibrant community that fostered intellectual curiosity and diversity. The open curriculum allowed me to... .

Read 1079 reviews.

Net Price : $25,028 ,

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University of Chicago

Chicago, IL •

• • Rating 3.82 out of 5   1,290 reviews

Senior: At UChicago, I found the ideal blend of rigorous academics, preprofessional resources, and an extensive alumni network, which has paved the way for my dream job in private equity investment post graduation. The academic program here is intellectually stimulating, challenging me to think critically and hone analytical skills. Collaborations with Booth Business School and the Harris School of Public Policy (YES! you can take classes at these schools during college!) have been instrumental, offering practical courses and diverse perspectives. The university's preprofessional support at Career Advancement Office has been outstanding, guiding me through internships and career development. The alumni network, filled with successful professionals, has provided invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities. The University of Chicago has been the perfect launchpad for my education and career development, and I never regret taking the offer during RD a few years back. ... Read 1,290 reviews

Net price $33,727

SAT range 1510-1580

#13 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

CHICAGO, IL ,

1290 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Senior says At UChicago, I found the ideal blend of rigorous academics, preprofessional resources, and an extensive alumni network, which has paved the way for my dream job in private equity investment post... The academic program here is intellectually stimulating, challenging me to think critically and hone analytical skills. Collaborations with Booth Business School and the Harris School of Public... The university's preprofessional support at Career Advancement Office has been outstanding, guiding me through internships and career development. The alumni network, filled with successful... The University of Chicago has been the perfect launchpad for my education and career development, and I never regret taking the offer during RD a few years back. .

Read 1290 reviews.

Net Price : $33,727 ,

SAT Range : 1510-1580 ,

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN •

• • Rating 4.01 out of 5   1,344 reviews

Alum: Going to Vanderbilt was the best decision! As someone interested in health and the social sciences, I felt that their Anthropology and Medicine, Health & Society programs and faculty were fantastic. The class sizes were smaller than I expected, which allowed for wonderful discussions and opportunities to develop great relationships with my peers. The electives were so much fun too, and I was especially grateful to be able to take courses across the different colleges and schools - my courses at Peabody College and Blair School of Music were awesome. ... Read 1,344 reviews

Acceptance rate 7%

Net price $27,553

#14 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

NASHVILLE, TN ,

1344 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Going to Vanderbilt was the best decision! As someone interested in health and the social sciences, I felt that their Anthropology and Medicine, Health & Society programs and faculty were fantastic.... .

Read 1344 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 7% ,

Net Price : $27,553 ,

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   470 reviews

Other: My kid just started at Washington and Lee (W&L) and it has been an eye-opening experience seeing how special the place really is. We’ve been taken aback at the quality of the school, particularly its incredibly attentive academics, small class size, balanced life-style, and diversifying social scene. The school is fairly balanced politically. Those wishing to express either conservative or liberal views can do so in peace. Don't underestimate W&L - our kid turned-down other schools for it! 1st for learning opportunities, learning facilities, and career preparation (Wall Street Journal) 1st for best professors (Niche) 1st for allowing free speech on campus (Foundation for Individual Rights & Expression) 2nd for highest career net present value at $1.58M (Georgetown University) Overall Rank 8th (Washington Monthly and College Rapter) 9th (Wall Street Journal ) 10th (Forbes) 11th (Niche) 12th (College Consensus) And the current acceptance rate is actually 17%, (Niche is incorrect). ... Read 470 reviews

Acceptance rate 19%

Net price $26,063

SAT range 1410-1530

#15 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

LEXINGTON, VA ,

470 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Other says My kid just started at Washington and Lee (W&L) and it has been an eye-opening experience seeing how special the place really is. We’ve been taken aback at the quality of the school, particularly its... 1st for learning opportunities, learning facilities, and career preparation (Wall Street Journal) 1st for best professors (Niche) 1st for allowing free speech on campus (Foundation for Individual Rights & Expression) 2nd for highest career net present value at $1.58M (Georgetown University) Overall Rank 8th (Washington Monthly and College Rapter) 9th (Wall Street Journal ) 10th (Forbes) 11th (Niche) 12th (College Consensus) And the current acceptance rate is actually 17%, (Niche is incorrect). .

Read 470 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 19% ,

Net Price : $26,063 ,

SAT Range : 1410-1530 ,

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN •

• • Rating 3.97 out of 5   1,430 reviews

Freshman: Notre Dame has a community of students who are driven both spiritually and academically to be their best selves. Over my time at UND, all students are united towards a common goal of being educated in both their hearts and minds to serve others in the world. For example, there are two students who really impacted my life named Caroline and Liam who changed my perspective on the idea of vocation and living out your life in service of God through your life. Vocation is about using your gifts to change the world and the University of Notre Dame helps cultivate students to be young men and women who do just that. ... Read 1,430 reviews

Acceptance rate 15%

Net price $30,513

#16 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

NOTRE DAME, IN ,

1430 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Notre Dame has a community of students who are driven both spiritually and academically to be their best selves. Over my time at UND, all students are united towards a common goal of being educated... .

Read 1430 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 15% ,

Net Price : $30,513 ,

Pomona College

Claremont, CA •

• • Rating 4.23 out of 5   422 reviews

Alum: Having studied in a few places now, I can say that Pomona is utterly unique in the American higher-ed landscape. As an intimate liberal arts college situated in what is essentially a 6,000-person university campus, it gives you all of the perks of a top LAC (small classes, unparalleled mentorship, intimate campus life) while offering the research opportunities and intellectual community of an R1 (caveat: you won't study under stars like Noam Chomsky or Jennifer Doudna, but you won't find that outside a handful of schools, and those people rarely ever mentor undergrads). It's also in Southern California, which offers access to the LA culture scene, proximity to natural beauty, impeccable weather, and in my opinion, facilitates a culture that sheds some of the elitist baggage you see at East Coast schools. In short, Pomona functions like an all-inclusive resort where every single person is smart, ambitious, and intensely curious about the world. Being there was an immense privilege. ... Read 422 reviews

Net price $17,000

#17 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

CLAREMONT, CA ,

422 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Having studied in a few places now, I can say that Pomona is utterly unique in the American higher-ed landscape. As an intimate liberal arts college situated in what is essentially a 6,000-person... .

Read 422 reviews.

Net Price : $17,000 ,

Duke University

Durham, NC •

• • Rating 3.93 out of 5   1,205 reviews

Other: My experience at Duke University was nothing short of exceptional. The university's commitment to academic excellence made it a truly enriching environment to be a part of Academic Rigor: Duke's rigorous academic programs challenged me to think critically and develop a deep understanding of my field of study. World-Class Faculty: The faculty members at Duke are experts in their respective fields, and their passion for teaching and research was evident in every class and interaction. Overall, my experience at Duke University was incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunities it provided me to grow academically, personally, and professionally. ... Read 1,205 reviews

Net price $27,297

#18 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

DURHAM, NC ,

1205 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Other says My experience at Duke University was nothing short of exceptional. The university's commitment to academic excellence made it a truly enriching environment to be a part of Academic Rigor: Duke's rigorous academic programs challenged me to think critically and develop a deep understanding of my field of study. World-Class Faculty: The faculty members at Duke are experts in their respective fields, and their passion for teaching and research was evident in every class and interaction. Overall, my experience at Duke University was incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunities it provided me to grow academically, personally, and professionally. .

Read 1205 reviews.

Net Price : $27,297 ,

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL •

• • Rating 3.88 out of 5   7,624 reviews

Sophomore: I am not a traditional american college student, but I still managed to fit in. There is great financial aid opportunity. I have started to enjoy american football and the local area quickly grew on me. Living on campus is underrated as it is extremely convenient. Classes can be difficult but if you only bite off as much as you can chew you will be okay! I am a current student and a huge fan of FSU, and I hope that whoever reads this gives FSU consideration. ... Read 7,624 reviews

Acceptance rate 37%

Net price $12,684

SAT range 1180-1340

#19 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

TALLAHASSEE, FL ,

7624 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says I am not a traditional american college student, but I still managed to fit in. There is great financial aid opportunity. I have started to enjoy american football and the local area quickly grew on... .

Read 7624 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 37% ,

Net Price : $12,684 ,

SAT Range : 1180-1340 ,

University of California - Berkeley

Berkeley, CA •

• • Rating 3.71 out of 5   4,461 reviews

Freshman: I have loved my time at Berkeley. There is an atmosphere of inclusion and celebration of diversity. I have the most amazing professors who make me love learning! I am majoring in Molecular Environmental Biology with a minor in African American Studies. I am hoping to become a medical doctor and I know my time at Berkeley is pushing me to reach that goal. Being in a city is new to me, there is always something exciting happening and something to see. Being able to see the Berkeley Hills and the Golden Gate Bridge when I wake up is amazing. Not to mention that the people I have met here push me to be a better person and inspire me. There are many organizations to join, so far I have joined Berkeley Engineers And Mentors (BEAM), Cal Surf Rider, greek life and the women's club water polo team. There is something for everyone, and for every version of myself aspire to be. I am grateful to be learning and living at UC Berkeley ! GO BEARS! ... Read 4,461 reviews

Acceptance rate 14%

Net price $17,652

SAT range 1310-1530

#20 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

BERKELEY, CA ,

4461 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I have loved my time at Berkeley. There is an atmosphere of inclusion and celebration of diversity. I have the most amazing professors who make me love learning! I am majoring in Molecular... .

Read 4461 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 14% ,

Net Price : $17,652 ,

SAT Range : 1310-1530 ,

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• • Rating 4.16 out of 5   662 reviews

Sophomore: Great place to be challenged, learn, and grow. A safe environment to fall and fail. Lots of support and resources available but you need to take the initiative to reach out about them ... Read 662 reviews

Net price $30,958

#21 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

662 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says Great place to be challenged, learn, and grow. A safe environment to fall and fail. Lots of support and resources available but you need to take the initiative to reach out about them .

Read 662 reviews.

Net Price : $30,958 ,

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL •

• • Rating 3.91 out of 5   8,057 reviews

Freshman: Heading into college was a completely new and terrifying feeling; However, the University of Florida made it easy to call Gainesville my new home. The campus is walkable, thousands of people my age surround me making it easier to find friends, and my classes challenge me. Overcoming my first semester was tough, but I could finally find belonging once I got my routine down. I like the campus layout, the coffee shops planted all around, and the feeling of independence. I would like to see a bigger variety of food options and a little renovation to the older buildings, but other than that it is a great university with great people! ... Read 8,057 reviews

Acceptance rate 30%

Net price $9,809

SAT range 1300-1470

#22 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

GAINESVILLE, FL ,

8057 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Heading into college was a completely new and terrifying feeling; However, the University of Florida made it easy to call Gainesville my new home. The campus is walkable, thousands of people my age... .

Read 8057 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 30% ,

Net Price : $9,809 ,

SAT Range : 1300-1470 ,

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL •

• • Rating 3.7 out of 5   1,484 reviews

Alum: Northwestern has an incredible network of professors who are preforming cutting-edge work in all their fields. Impressively, after an entire undergrad career there is only one professor who I would name as not a good professor, and that review is simply isolated to their teaching ability, not their subject knowledge. The learning support system is also extensive, and students are incredibly supportive as well. There is a culture of enabling yourself and those around you to reach new heights. While all the academics and research are amazing, I would say Northwestern needs to work on its accessibility to mental healthcare and ties to the greater Chicagoland community. There could be many more community outreach programs designed to benefit the diverse and interesting Chicago population, from academics to student life. ... Read 1,484 reviews

Net price $29,999

#23 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

EVANSTON, IL ,

1484 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Northwestern has an incredible network of professors who are preforming cutting-edge work in all their fields. Impressively, after an entire undergrad career there is only one professor who I would... .

Read 1484 reviews.

Net Price : $29,999 ,

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME •

• • Rating 4.11 out of 5   725 reviews

Alum: Amazing food, great dorms, and professors that changed my whole perspective on life. I got very sick of the institutional bureaucracy but that might have been true at any college I went to. Other students of color -- be very aware that this is a PWI in a major way, it can be VERY isolating and disheartening. If you go here, I encourage you to ask for support and hold your people close. They have a lot of funding opportunities for research projects and individual interest projects. Take advantage of their huge endowment and apply for grants to do things you're interested in! Hang in there y'all ... Read 725 reviews

Net price $26,727

SAT range 1360-1510

#24 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

BRUNSWICK, ME ,

725 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Amazing food, great dorms, and professors that changed my whole perspective on life. I got very sick of the institutional bureaucracy but that might have been true at any college I went to. Other... .

Read 725 reviews.

Net Price : $26,727 ,

SAT Range : 1360-1510 ,

Claremont McKenna College

• • Rating 3.95 out of 5   432 reviews

Sophomore: Transferred in from a flagship state school and have no regrets. Found more welcoming communities, interesting professional/research opportunities, and more engaging classes. Facilities and the overall area (being in between LA County and San Bernardino) are somewhat underwhelming but can be made more enjoyable with a car. Food and residential life is good, and you'll find most people are friendly across the 5Cs. More specific to CMC, students love having profound conversations and engaging in multiple productive pursuits. It's definitely a grind, but a fulfilling one -- especially if you're pre-professional interested in IB/Consulting. ... Read 432 reviews

Net price $21,663

SAT range 1420-1530

#25 Best Colleges for Political Science in America .

432 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says Transferred in from a flagship state school and have no regrets. Found more welcoming communities, interesting professional/research opportunities, and more engaging classes. Facilities and the... .

Read 432 reviews.

Net Price : $21,663 ,

SAT Range : 1420-1530 ,

Roosevelt University

CHICAGO, IL

• • Rating 3.71 out of 5   1,012

Skidmore College

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY

• • Rating 3.75 out of 5   666

Arcadia University

GLENSIDE, PA

• • Rating 3.33 out of 5   1,292

Showing results 1 through 25 of 1,340

Ph.D. Program

Thank you for visiting the graduate program website and for giving us the opportunity to introduce ourselves. We take special pride in our Department’s high national ranking in the discipline — and in the shared determination of our faculty to continue to build an exciting intellectual community. Our graduate program combines outstanding faculty and students, a broad-ranging curriculum oriented toward research, and the resources of one of the nation’s great universities. In addition to housing many leading departments in the social science, humanities and natural sciences, UCLA offers one of the world’s foremost research libraries, exceptional computing facilities, and an extensive network of interdisciplinary centers and institutes that foster linkages across disciplinary boundaries.

Our Department is a fairly large one, staffed by approximately 45 core faculty. Each year we aim for an entering class of about 15 to 20, which allows for considerable personal attention to each of our students. Currently, we have about 150 students in residence. We consider ourselves a “full service” department: our large and intellectually diverse faculty offers coursework and opportunities for research in all of the major sub-fields of the discipline. In addition, our graduate students have found that our curriculum facilitates intensive study in a number of cross-cutting areas – empirical and theoretical, contemporary and historical. Among these interdisciplinary concentrations are political economy, American political development, race and politics, and the philosophical, historical, and literary dimensions of political theory. Because UCLA is home to a large number of centers for language and area studies our students often focus their doctoral research on the politics of specific world regions while drawing theoretical and empirical leverage from sources that transcend conventional boundaries.

Our emphasis on rigorous academic training and independent research creates a diverse and intellectually exciting graduate student community. Most of our doctoral graduates go on to careers in academic institutions, but many have also found challenging employment in the public sector or in private organizations that emphasize research and analytic skills. In the past decade or so, our graduates have obtained tenure-track academic positions at Princeton, Yale, Harvard, Harvard’s Kennedy School, Stanford, Pittsburgh, Rochester, Michigan, UC Berkeley, and UC San Diego. Others have joined such institutions as the World Bank, the State Department, the Federal Reserve Bank, RAND, and the Carnegie Endowment.

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Department of Political Science

The Political Science Ph.D.

The Vanderbilt Ph.D. program in political science ranks among the top programs of its kind, both overall and by subfield (American Politics, Comparative Politics, with International Relations on the rise).

Our faculty and students study many varied subjects using a diverse slate of methodologies. Vanderbilt’s political science department is known for its deep expertise in several areas of excellence that cross subfield boundaries, including bureaucracies, political violence and conflict, the politics of gender, democracy in middle-to-low-income countries, mass political behavior, survey methodology, and formal theory.

Our graduate program offers intensive training in three fields of political science: American Politics, Comparative Politics, and International Relations. We admit between eight and twelve doctoral students per year and prepare them for successful careers in academia, government, international organizations, or research-centered jobs.

While we admit a small percentage of applicants for our program, we aim to bring the most diverse, talented, and innovative students in the world to Nashville to study political science. As a student in our program, you are joining a supportive intellectual and social community.

Some of the key benefits of Vanderbilt’s political science Ph.D. program are:

• A top-ranked faculty with deep expertise in substantive political science and the methodologies needed to answer important questions about our political world
• Access to research-supporting resources like the Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions , the Latin American Public Opinion Project Lab, the Research on Conflict and Collective Action Lab, and the Research on Individuals, Politics, and Society Lab
• A nearly 1:1 student: faculty ratio, allowing for close mentoring and support
• A rigorous program of coursework and research milestones that pair deep substantive knowledge with cutting-edge methodological and data science skills
• Membership in a community of smart, hardworking, and supportive doctoral candidates who prioritize collaboration and discovery
• Residence in Nashville, a fast-growing mid-size city with a high quality of life and wide array of entertainment and recreational offerings

Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Like Vanderbilt University, the Department of Political Science defines diversity broadly to include experiences, perspectives, backgrounds, and identities. We believe such diversity among our faculty and students enhances the intellectual experience and achievements of this academic community. As such, we are committed to principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action, and we encourage individuals from diverse, under-represented, and traditionally excluded populations to apply to our program.

Our graduate program seeks to:

• Continually strengthen the climate for current students and faculty from traditionally excluded groups and foster a welcoming and vibrant community of scholars.
• Recruit more graduate students from underrepresented and traditionally excluded groups to the department and discipline.
• Give all students and faculty the tools to succeed and support one another in a diverse discipline.

Applying to the Program

The application deadline for the Ph.D. program is December 15 for the coming fall semester. We welcome applicants from all institutions, backgrounds, and experiences with a passion for research in political science. The application fee is $95.00.

When you apply, you are applying to the program as a whole and the faculty decides together who would be the best fit. Individual faculty members do not review and accept individual doctoral students they want to advise. There is no need to secure a faculty mentor ahead of your application .

Please direct all Ph.D. admission inquiries to Director of Graduate Studies, Sharece Thrower .

Qualifications

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any major and show evidence of a passion for research in political science. The most successful applicants demonstrate mathematical or statistical proficiency and experience in original research. There is no minimum score for the GRE, TOEFL, or minimum required GPA. It is optional for applicants to submit their GRE scores. Strong letters of recommendation (generally from faculty members) are essential. Finally, but most importantly, we look for a fit between the student's intellectual interests and our faculty's scholarly expertise.

Information to Submit

The Graduate Studies Committee reviews all aspects of an applicant's file. We try to get a sense of an applicant’s many facets, skills, and experiences across the different materials:

• Statement of purpose (see details below)
• Official transcripts from each college or university attended
• 3-5 letters of recommendation speaking to academic abilities
• Writing sample of 15-25 pages (preferably a paper from a course that illustrates the candidate's ability to write and to conduct research)
• Unofficial or official GRE scores are optional
• Students from non-English-speaking countries should also submit a recent TOEFL score; students graduating with a degree from a four-year English-speaking institution are exempt from this requirement.

Statement of Purpose

Successful applicants should use the personal statement to clearly articulate their interest in pursuing a doctorate in political science and their research objectives. There are no required elements, but some questions that can help guide the statement include:

• What questions or puzzles in political science fascinate you?
• What approaches do you think will help you answer those puzzles?
• Why do you want to earn a Ph.D., and why in political science?
• How have your studies and experiences prepared you for a challenging Ph.D. program?
• Why do you think the Vanderbilt program and its faculty are the best place for you to study your questions of interest and develop needed skills?

Visiting Campus

We hold a recruitment visit in March for all applicants who receive offers of admission to the program. Visits consist of meals with current graduate students and faculty, group meetings to learn about program requirements and benefits, and one-on-one meetings with those faculty members and students you are most likely to work with.

Financial Aid                         Plan Your Ph.D.                          Apply Now

Ph.D. in Political Science

We are ranked as a top-ten research department and our graduate program has an excellent job placement record. Over the past decade, the vast majority of our PhD graduates have gone on to attain tenure-track positions, and many other students have become leaders in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. 

In addition to a demanding sequence of courses during the first two years, our graduates begin working with faculty from the very first day, to gain an appreciation of the challenges involved in producing innovative research.

This paves the way to their own intellectual development, the first major milestone of which is a solo-authored research paper to be presented to the department during their second year in the program. From that point on, until the completion of the dissertation in year five, the focus is primarily on independent and collaborative research.

Our graduate program is organized around subfields that address major theoretical questions about political life, encourage collaboration across intellectual boundaries, and place us at the frontiers of the discipline. As a graduate student here, you will become certified in two major fields and gain exposure to other fields through our graduate workshop series.

• Our 89 Year History
• Location & Directions
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• Why Major in Political Science?
• Major Requirements
• American Political Institutions and Behavior
• Decision Theory and Data Science
• International Relations
• Law and Political Theory
• Political Economy
• Certificate: Philosophy, Politics & Economics
• Certificate: Decision Sciences
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Independent Study
• Honors Program
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• Global Education
• American Values & Institutions Program
• American Grand Strategy Program
• Peter G. Fish Fellowship
• Ralph Bunche Summer Institute
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• M.A. Requirements
• M.A. Analytical Political Economy (MAPE)
• Joint J.D./M.A. Degree
• Ph.D. Requirements
• Ph.D. Alumni Placements
• Good Standing
• Qualifying Procedure
• Preliminary Exam
• Dissertation
• Normative Political Theory & Philosophy
• Political Behavior & Identities
• Political Institutions
• Political Methodology
• Security, Peace & Conflict
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PhD Political Science

Program overview.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Political Science program serves students interested in academic positions as well as research and policy careers. The department and its  faculty  are committed to providing doctoral students with an excellent educational experience through coursework, comprehensive examinations, and the dissertation. 

The curriculum introduces students to all four fields and also develops their research skills through a series of methodology courses. Students may develop a traditional, academic focus in one of the fields, or they may combine it with public policy to highlight a policy orientation.

The PhD in Political Science covers four major fields in the discipline:

• American Government and Politics
• Comparative Politics
• International Relations
• Public Policy

All PhD students are fully funded for 5 years via a Tuition Assistantship which includes stipend, full tuition, and student health insurance. Answers to frequently asked questions can be found here from the department and here from the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.

For more information on curricular requirements for the PhD program see the  Course Catalog .

Type of Program

• PhD Program

Get more information about this graduate program.

More programs, bachelor of arts, political science, bachelor of science, political science, certificate in security and resilience studies, master of arts in political science, master of science in resilience studies.

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Top PhD Colleges in India 2024

List of 68 phd political science colleges in india.

Applied Filters

• Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy)
• Political Science

Maharaja's College

• Approved by: NAAC
• Type: Government Aided
• Maharaja's College Fees
• Get Free Counselling

S.S. Jain Subodh Girls P.G. College Sanganer, Jaipur

• Approved by: AICTE
• Type: Private
• Fee Structure

Amity University (AIHC), Noida

• Approved by: UGC AICTE NAAC
• Type: Private Unaided
• NIRF Ranking: 57
• Acting and Film-making
• B.A. - Public Administration
• Archaeology
• Photography

Sharda University

• Approved by: UGC NBA NABL NABH NAAC
• Type: Private (State University)
• Sharda University Fees

Pondicherry University

• Approved by: UGC NAAC
• Pondicherry University Fees

Integral University

• Approved by: UGC MCI NAAC
• Integral University Fees
• BA Political Science Colleges in India
• MA Political Science Colleges in India
• B.Ed Political Science Colleges in India
• M.Phil Political Science Colleges in India
• BSc Political Science Colleges in India
• Others (332)
• Computer Science (310)
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NIMS University

• Approved by: UGC DCI AIU INC MCI DEC BCI NAAC COA PCI AICTE
• NIRF Ranking: 16
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• Approved by: AICTE NBA
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Best Ph.D in Political Science Universities in India

Institute type, gender diversity.

Sharda University Admissions 2024

North India's Largest Educational Group | UGC Recognized | NAAC A+ Grade | Highest Package 1 Cr | Scholarships upto 100%

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B.Sc. (Hons) Psychology admissions 2024 | Top faculty from DRDO, IISc, IITs, Delhi University & more | Scholarships available up to 100% of the tuition fee

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• Political Science

AMU Aligarh - Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh

• Ph.D ( 35 Courses )

Amity University Gurgaon - Amity University, Gurugram

• Fees : ₹ 2.52 Lakhs
• Ph.D ( 17 Courses )

Amity University, Jaipur

• Ph.D ( 6 Courses )

Top Institutes Accepting Applications

Date: 6th April'24 | 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM | MAHE Bengaluru Campus, Yelahanka

Accorded Institution of Eminence by Govt of India, NAAC A++ Accredited, Ranked #6 by NIRF

Ranked amongst top 3% universities globally (QS Rankings)

India’s first Urban Multidisciplinary University | Avg. CTC-9 LPA

UGC recognized University | NAAC 'A' Grade | Merit & need-based scholarships available

Applications Deadline - 31st March 2024 | Distinguished Faculty from Top-Ranked Universities and Research Institutions

Amity University, Kolkata

• Fees : ₹ 3.25 Lakhs
• Ph.D ( 10 Courses )

Filter by State

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Amity University, Mumbai

• Fees : ₹ 1.92 Lakhs

Amity University, Noida

• Fees : ₹ 3.10 Lakhs
• Ph.D ( 14 Courses )

Andhra University, Visakhapatnam

Annamalai university - annamalai university, annamalai nagar.

• Ph.D ( 19 Courses )

Filter by City

Aku patna - aryabhatta knowledge university, patna.

• Ph.D ( 8 Courses )

Asian International University, Manipur

• State Level Eligibility Test

Assam University, Silchar

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APSU Rewa - Awadhesh Pratap Singh University, Rewa

Filter by exam, baba mastnath university, rohtak.

• Fees : ₹ 6.25 Lakhs

BBAU Lucknow - Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow

Bhu varanasi - banaras hindu university, varanasi, bankura university, bankura, filter by ownership, bu bhopal - barkatullah university, bhopal, berhampur university - berhampur university, berhampur.

• Exams : CSIR UGC NET
• Ph.D ( 9 Courses )

Bharathiar University - Bharathiar University, Coimbatore

• Ph.D ( 4 Courses )

Bharathidasan University - Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli

Bsdu jaipur - bhartiya skill development university, jaipur, bhupal nobles university, udaipur, binod bihari mahto koyalanchal university, dhanbad.

• Exams : UGC NET

Bir Tikendrajit University, Imphal

Bodoland university, rangalikhata.

• Fees : ₹ 3.91 Lakhs
• Ph.D ( 7 Courses )

BU Jhansi - Bundelkhand University, Jhansi

Capital university, koderma, career point university, hamirpur.

• Fees : ₹ 5.40 Lakhs
• Ph.D ( 3 Courses )

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• Fees : ₹ 1.07 Lakhs
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Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar

Central university of haryana, mahendergarh, central university of jharkhand, ranchi, central university of kerala, kasaragod, central university of punjab, bathinda, cusb - central university of south bihar, patna, charutar vidya mandal university, anand.

• Fees : ₹ 3 Lakhs

CCSU Meerut - Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut

Csjmu kanpur - chhatrapati shahu ji maharaj university, kanpur, cooch behar panchanan barma university, cooch behar, cotton university guwahati - cotton college state university, guwahati, ct university, ludhiana, ddu gorakhpur - deen dayal upadhyaya gorakhpur university, gorakhpur, desh bhagat university, mandi gobindgarh.

• Ph.D ( 13 Courses )

DAVV - Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore

Dibrugarh university, dibrugarh, dr apj abdul kalam university, indore.

• Fees : ₹ 12 Lakhs

BAMU Aurangabad - Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad

• Maharashtra State Eligibility Test

BAOU Ahmedabad - Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad

• Fees : ₹ 2.07 Lakhs

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The 16 highest-paying college majors, 5 years after graduation

If you're looking for a college degree with maximum earning potential, you'll want to be an engineer.

Engineering degrees took nine of the top 16 rankings for college majors with the highest income five years after graduation, according to a recent New York Federal Reserve study of full-time workers.

Computer engineering majors ranked first with an annual median salary of $80,000, followed by chemical engineering and computer science — the only two other majors that pay more than $75,000 annually.

The trend is expected to continue going forward too. STEM jobs — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — are expected to grow twice as fast as non-STEM jobs through 2031.

Here are the 16 highest-paying college majors:

The technical knowledge, mathematical proficiency and problem-solving abilities required in engineering are valuable across many industries. As such, the profession tends to have higher salaries compared to other occupations.

Engineers also get top dollar when they gain more experience. When looking at "mid-career" graduates — those ages 35 to 45 who are working full-time — engineering majors tend to make six figures.

Here's a look at the rankings for mid-career graduates:

Once again, chemical engineering is ranked first, with $133,000 in annual median income. Chemical engineers get paid well since they often work in lucrative sectors like oil and gas, pharmaceuticals and semiconductor manufacturing.

In contrast, the lowest paying majors tend to be in liberal arts or education. Early childhood education had the lowest pay for mid-career earners, with $48,000 in annual median income. That's only $8,000 more than the $40,000 early childhood educators make at the beginning of their careers.

Data for this annual study was compiled from U.S. Census data from 2022, the most recent available. The study excludes majors currently enrolled in school and is limited to a working age population aged 25 to 65, with a bachelor's degree or higher.

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Graduate Assistant, Political Science

• Ypsilanti, Michigan, United States
• College of Arts and Sciences
• Academic & Student Affairs
• Graduate Assistant
• Opening on: Mar 20 2024

Title: Graduate Assistant, Political Science

Employee Classification: GA

Pay Grade: GS 00

Division: Academic and Student Affairs

Department: College of Arts and Sciences

Campus Location: Main Campus

General Summary

With the guidance of one or more staff or faculty members, graduate assistants perform a mixture of services in support of research, communication, technology, business operations, or student affairs activities as more than 50% of their service.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Graduate assistants in the Political Science Department have the opportunity to work with all Department faculty and staff on various projects to assist with the Department, office, MPA program, curriculum, teaching, and research efforts. Assignments include: • Assisting faculty with research • Assisting faculty and staff in planning conferences/events • Organizing Public Administration Club meetings and events • Providing teaching assistance in and outside of the classroom • Developing surveys and analyzing data • Performing communication and event coordination work for undergraduate academic teams (e.g., Model UN, Moot Court, Mock Trial) • Assisting with other departmental-related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will value teamwork and possess strong research and analytical skills. Ability to work up to 20 hours per week (10 for 50%) is required. GPA of 3.0 or higher is required. Admission and enrollment in a graduate program is required. Maintenance of a 67% course completion is required. Enrollment in at least 6 credits for Fall and Winter semesters is required. The Staff Graduate Assistant receives a stipend and tuition waiver subject to federal tax.

Appointment Percentage:

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Quick Guide: Your College Degree Options

There are generally four categories of college degrees: associate degree, bachelor’s degree, graduate degree, and doctorate or professional degree. Each category comes with its own particular subcategories, and there are some subtle differences between a doctorate and a professional degree.

If you ever find yourself lost in the sea of abbreviations for degrees, you're not alone. This quick guide is here to clear the air regarding the types of degrees available to you and what each one means.

Guide to College Degrees, Professional Studies & Certifications

Associate degree.

An associate degree is a two-year degree typically offered at community colleges, technical colleges, and career colleges. However, some four-year universities offer them as well. Examples of some associate degrees include Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS).

AS degrees are generally more narrowly focused and prepare students for science and math-related careers. AA degrees are broader and focus on fields outside of math and science such as liberal arts, business administration, criminal justice, and culinary arts.

Some students who earn an associate degree transfer to a four-year program to earn a bachelor’s degree. Others complete associate degrees and then go straight to work.

Bachelor's or Baccalaureate Degree

Bachelor’s degrees require students to complete four- or five-year programs in a specific academic discipline. The two most common types of bachelor’s degrees are bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS). Other types of bachelor’s degrees include the bachelor of fine arts (BFA), and bachelor of architecture (BArch).

Because bachelor’s degrees train students to enter a specific field, many professional careers require them. Earning a bachelor’s degree can open the door to many job opportunities and increase your potential income.

Some institutions offer a liberal arts and career combination program, also called a 3-2 program. This is a type of dual degree in which a student completes three years of liberal arts study followed by two years of professional or technical study. In the end, students earn two bachelor’s degrees, usually a BA and a BS.

An example of this is Columbia University’s 3-2 Combined Plan program in which students can earn a BA and a BS in five years.

Some colleges also let you earn a teacher certification by combining bachelor's degree study with state certification requirements. State requirements vary, but these programs usually feature professional education courses, including student teaching.

Graduate Degree

Graduate degrees are advanced degrees that some students pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree. The two most common are master of arts (MA) and master of science (MS). Other examples include master of fine arts (MFA) and master of business administration (MBA). A graduate degree is like an extension of a bachelor’s degree whereby a student further enriches their knowledge of their field and narrows their f ocus of study .

Graduate degrees usually take around two years to attain, but this can vary based on the degree. Many institutions allow students to enroll in a graduate program in a field unrelated to their bachelor’s degree. This may require some extra credit hours, though.

Professional Degree

Students earn professional degrees to become licensed to work in professions like medicine or law. The M.D. degree is an example. Professional programs generally require a college degree before you start them and then at least three years of study to complete.

Doctoral Degree and Professional Degree

The doctorate and professional degrees are the highest levels of education one can attain. They signify mastery of a subject and often come with the coveted title “doctor.” Although the two are similar, there are some important differences.

A doctorate or doctoral degree is a research-oriented degree focused on scholarly development. The most common doctorate is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Despite the name, a PhD covers many disciplines, not just philosophy.

A professional degree is an application-oriented degree, meaning it prepares students for a specific working position. There are many types of professional degrees. Some examples are: doctor of medicine (MD), doctor of pharmacy (PharmD), and doctor of medicine in dentistry (DMD) in the field of medicine, and juris doctor (JD) and doctor of juridical science (SJD) in the field of law.

A graduate degree does not need to precede a doctorate or professional degree. Often, students will go straight into a doctorate or professional program following their bachelor’s, however some programs will require a master’s degree to gain entry. Completion can take anywhere from four to eight years, depending on the field of study.

Many doctoral students work either full-time or part-time while they study in the program. This, along with the field they are studying, will significantly affect the time it takes to complete their degree.

Joint Degrees

Some students may choose to pursue a joint degree, also known as a dual degree, which means they simultaneously study for a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree. Joint degrees can be pursued in the same college or can be split between two different colleges. For example, Berklee College of Music and Harvard University offer a dual bachelor’s/master’s program in which a student receives a bachelor of arts (BA) at Harvard and a master of music (MM) or master of arts (MA) at Berklee.

Depending on the program, it may be possible to study at the same time for a master's degree and a doctorate. For example, the University of Southern California offers a program leading to doctor of pharmacy and master of public health degrees.

How do academic degrees go in order?

There are four types of degrees. In order of level of education, they rank as associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s or graduate degrees, and doctorate or professional degrees.

How many degrees are there in college?

Most community colleges offer only two-year associate degrees, while most four-year colleges offer bachelor’s, graduate, and doctorate or professional degrees. Some four-year colleges may also have associate degree programs.

How many years do you have to be in college to achieve certain degrees?

Though it will vary between academic disciplines, associate degrees usually take two years to achieve, bachelor’s degrees take four years, master’s degrees take two years, and doctorate or professional degrees can take anywhere from four to eight years.

What is an eight-year degree?

An “eight-year degree” typically refers to a doctorate degree or PhD. Although some doctorates can be completed in as little as three years, these degrees typically require more time studying highly specialized subjects. Students in these programs often must defend a dissertation while already working a professional job.

What are the four years of college called?

The first four years of college are the undergraduate years, and a student studying for a bachelor’s degree is called an undergraduate. The four years refer to the total accumulated credit hours; a student may take fewer or more than four years to attain their undergraduate degree.

What does a graduate degree mean?

A graduate degree or master’s degree is an advanced degree that some students pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree. Earning a graduate degree signifies mastery of a particular field of study and focuses more intensely on a subject than a bachelor’s degree does. Graduate degrees usually take two years to attain.

What do you call a master's student?

A master's student is called a graduate student or “grad student” for short. A student still studying for a bachelor’s degree is called an undergraduate student or “undergrad student.”

How many years is a master's degree?

Graduate degrees usually take around two years to attain, but this can vary based on the degree. Many institutions allow students to enroll in a graduate program in a field unrelated to their bachelor’s degree, although it may require some extra credit hours.

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Click below to hear two alumni reflect on the value of their experiences as political science majors in our department as they prepared for their careers:

• Class of 1979 political science major
• Class of 2004 public administration and political science double major

Students must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 39 credit hours, including:

• A 17-hour core introducing students to career opportunities, the conduct of political inquiry in the major areas of the discipline, an awareness of global issues and cultural diversity and the techniques of original research.
• A 18-hour depth requirement in which students take at least one course from three of the major areas of political inquiry and acquire additional experience in the application of research techniques.
• Click here for complete information on the Political Science major

The Political Science, International Affairs, and Public Administration majors are available to any student in good standing at the university. To declare one of these majors (or to declare a minor), go to the Student Center component of  MyMadison  on the STUDENT tab.  JMU's Office of the Registrar provides a  step-by-step video tutorial with instructions on adding, dropping, and/or changing majors and minors.

Please direct questions about the political science major to: Dr. Scott Hammond, Miller Hall 2141, (540) 568-6313, [email protected]

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2024 Best Grad Schools Rankings Coming April 9

The next edition of the U.S. News graduate schools rankings will once again focus on outcomes.

2024 Best Grad Schools Rankings Coming

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New rankings of business, education, engineering, law, medical and nursing programs will be unveiled on April 9 as part of the 2024 edition of Best Graduate Schools . The rankings and data for these disciplines are derived from survey data that schools reported to U.S. News in fall 2023 and early 2024, in some cases combined with third party-sourced information. Detailed methodologies will be published in the ranking methodologies section of usnews.com.

For the first time since 2020, the website will also include new rankings of graduate programs in audiology, clinical psychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Additionally, social work will be ranked for the first time since 2022, and nurse anesthesia for the first time since 2016.

Finally, U.S. News will again update its annual rankings of graduate programs in public affairs, public health schools and programs, and computer science. These rankings, along with all the other health program rankings to be ranked in 2024, are calculated from qualitative ratings on academic quality submitted by top officials at these schools.

U.S. News has again worked with the Robert Graham Center, a division of the American Academy of Family Physicians, as the data provider to produce four exclusive stand-alone medical school rankings based on the following: the proportion of a medical school's graduates practicing primary care; the proportion of a medical school's graduates practicing direct patient care in medically underserved areas; the proportion of a medical school's graduates practicing direct patient care in rural areas; and the proportion of a medical school's fall 2023 enrollment, as reported to U.S. News, who are underrepresented minorities. That last ranking, referred to as the Most Diverse Medical Schools, takes into account Black, Hispanic, Native American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander enrollment.

Disciplines that were most recently updated in earlier editions will remain on usnews.com.

The rankings should not be used as the sole basis for deciding to attend one graduate program or school over another. Prospective students should consider other factors as well, like a school's course offerings, department culture, total cost to obtain the degree , networking after graduation, advising or mentoring programs, location and campus life .

Prospective students seeking such information, along with the full rankings, should access the subscription-based U.S. News Graduate School Compass . The full rankings include those in specialized areas, in fields like marketing, educational curriculum and instruction, chemical engineering, internal medicine and nursing administration. The full law school rankings and data will be free to all users.

The statistical data that schools report to U.S. News appears in each school's profile in U.S. News's directory. The data can be used to compare factors such as application requirements; acceptance rates; entering class scores on the GRE, LSAT, MCAT and GMAT; student body characteristics; financial aid and graduate indebtedness; bar passage rates; the amount of research conducted at medical schools; and career-related information for graduates of law and business programs, such as starting salaries and job attainment success after graduation.

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About Morse Code: Inside the College Rankings

Robert Morse is chief data strategist for U.S. News & World Report and has worked at the company since 1976. He develops the methodologies and surveys for the Best Colleges and Best Graduate Schools annual rankings, keeping an eye on higher-education trends to make sure the rankings offer prospective students the best analysis available. Morse Code provides deeper insights into the methodologies and is a forum for commentary and analysis of college, grad and other rankings.

2024 Best Colleges

Search for your perfect fit with the U.S. News rankings of colleges and universities.