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University of Johannesburg PhD in Politics

University of Johannesburg

PhD in Politics

Johannesburg, South Africa

PhD

3 years

English

Full time

31 Oct 2025*

Feb 2026

ZAR 20,405 / per year **

On-Campus

* by noon

** average fee. Additional fees may apply

Key Summary

    About : The PhD in Politics explores various dimensions of political systems, behavior, and theories. You'll engage in in-depth research that contributes to the understanding of domestic and international political issues. This program typically spans three to four years full-time and includes preparation for a dissertation that showcases your research skills and knowledge in the field.
    Career Outcomes : Graduates can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or governmental and non-governmental organizations. Potential roles include political analyst, policy advisor, or academic researcher. The skills developed during the program also apply to positions in public engagement, international relations, and advocacy.

Introduction

A thesis on a theme in Political Science or International Relations, as a unique contribution that also demonstrates the ability to do independent and meaningful research, is required. An article ready for publication has to be submitted along with the thesis.

Reasons for studying at UJ

  • UJ offers not only a special program called the First Year Experience to help orientate students throughout the first year but we also offer a Senior Student Experience that gears students toward the workplace!
  • Grab the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports and train alongside Olympians and Paralympians on state-of-the-art pitches, tracks, and fields, or just keep fit by joining one of the gyms on each of our 4 campuses.
  • Be part of a young, vibrant, and agile university that reflects and adapts easily to our country’s aspirations, while maintaining global relevance through numerous international partnerships.
  • 178 Internationally respected and accepted qualifications.
  • Join a university that cares enough to have raised over R300 million since the start of 2016 in order to support the Missing Middle Campaign. UJ also ensures that more than 6 000 needy students have two healthy meals per day.
  • Study in the vibrant City of Gold – the economic hub of South Africa. Join a vibrant, cosmopolitan, progressive group of students and academics on their way to re-imagining the future!
  • UJ offers an amazing on-campus experience whether you live in one of UJ’s residences, belong to a day house, or whether you just want to socialize at the Student Centres on all campuses.
  • We ensure the health, safety, and security of all our students through our own on-campus health services and UJ Protection Services.
  • Did you know that during the first five years of UJ’s existence it doubled its targeted research output and to this day, continues to break records!

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