Prospective Doctoral Students
PhD in Political Science
Welcome prospective graduate students! Thank you for your interest in our Political Science PhD program. This page provides an overview of our application materials and process along with resources to assist you in preparing your application. Application materials must be received by midnight CST on February 15. Please submit your application via the GPEM website. Please note there is no application fee.
Application Materials
Letters of Recommendation
Please submit three letters of recommendation. Please do not submit additional letters as they will not be reviewed. We recommend prioritizing letter writers who can speak to your research experience and/or academic potential whenever possible. Applicants often take an active role in ensuring that letters of recommendation accurately summarize past accomplishments as well as your potential for success as a graduate student. It is generally a good idea to reach out to your letter writers at least two months before the deadline. You should confirm that your letter writers will be able to write strong letters of recommendation on your behalf. If someone is unable to write a strong letter then you should ask another person. Most letter writers will find it useful to have access to a copy of your CV and personal statement. It is also useful if you can provide letter writers with a spreadsheet with the various submission links and deadlines. Many letter writers appreciate a gentle reminder seven days before the deadline and again 48 hours before the deadline since they often have many deadlines.
Resources:
- Getting a recommendation
- Selecting letter writers
- Etiquette
- How to request a letter of recommendation
- Finding an advisor
Resume/ CV
Please submit a CV that provides an overview of the following content areas (as relevant): 1) relevant educational experiences 2) awards/honors/fellowships 3) relevant research experiences, including published papers/pre-prints and conference presentations, research skills and experience with research methods 4) leadership/service/advocacy/commitment to diversity activities.
Resources:
Transcripts
An undergraduate background in political science or a related major is preferred. Courses in statistics and in research methods, or the equivalent, are required. Official transcripts are required, and international applicants must submit a transcript evaluation from a third party approved by The Graduate School.
Statement of Purpose
Your personal statement should address the following questions. Please keep your comments to no more than 2 pages, single-spaced.
What specific areas are you interested in researching while completing your PhD in political science? What relevant experiences have you had that have informed your decision and prepared you to pursue a graduate degree in political science? What couses in statistics and research methods have you taken? Do you have research experience? What are your career goals following completion of your PhD? Why are you applying to Loyola and which faculty do you envision working with to support your goals?
Learn about each of our faculty. The following faculty will be considering graduate student applications for the next school year (2023-2024): In American Politics: Dr. Eric Hansen, Dr. Amanda Savage; in Comparative Politics: Dr. Olga Avdeyeva, Dr. Tofigh Maboudi; in International Relations: Dr. Alexandru Grigorescu, Dr. Molly Melin
We know that undertaking the process of writing a graduate statement of purpose can be a daunting and time-intensive, requiring several revisions and input from others. We have found the following resources (including examples) helpful for students who are undertaking this process.
Resources:
Please note the GRE is not accepted and scores will NOT be considered if submitted.
Request more information to receive application materials and a graduate catalog.
Admission Process
The doctoral program receives many applications each year but only selects two to four full-time students. All applications are reviewed by an admissions committee, and those in the final group of applicants are interviewed individually online by at least two faculty members and an advanced graduate student.
