PhD in Politics & International Relations

Class Profile

Class Size

25

Average Age

28

Average Work Experience

2 Years

Diversity

North America:

1%

Others:

5%

New Zealand:

73%

Asia:

13%

Europe:

6%

Oceania:

2%

Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation

$1,10,000 / year

Top recruiters

Google

Amazon

Facebook

The British Council

The European Commission

The United Nations

The World Bank

The London School of Economics and Political Science

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

$7,659 / year

Overall Cost

$22,659 / year

FAQs

• What are the tuition fees and intakes for the program?
  
  The indicative annual tuition fee for 2025 is NZD 7,660. There are multiple intake dates throughout the year, including open intakes and a Semester 1 intake in March 2026.
• What is the application process for the PhD?
  
  Applicants must prepare electronic copies of academic transcripts, a statement of research intent, and referee information. If you have not studied at Auckland in the last five years, you need two academic references, including one from your thesis/dissertation supervisor. You may also be asked to supply your previous thesis or relevant publications.
• What research areas are available for PhD candidates?
  
  Research opportunities include, but are not limited to: Chinese international relations, climate and energy policy, comparative public policy, political theory, democratisation, human rights, environmental politics, extremism, foreign policy, gender and war, media and political communication, nationalism, public engagement, and violent conflict.
• Is English language proficiency required for international applicants?
  
  Yes, international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. The minimum requirements are an IELTS (Academic) overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0 or an equivalent TOEFL iBT score.
• What are the main admission requirements for the PhD in Politics & International Relations?
  
  You must have a postgraduate bachelor’s (honours) degree or a master’s degree in a relevant field, both with at least a B+ grade (equivalent to a Grade Point Equivalent (GPE) of 6.0 on Auckland’s 0-9 scale). You also need to have completed a significant research project, such as a dissertation or thesis, during your prior university study.