International Business School

PhD in International Affairs

Degree awarded by The University of Buckingham

The PhD in International Affairs programme is aimed at policy-makers and experts of international affairs to address critical issues centred on diplomacy, foreign policy, and international relations.

The PhD in International Affairs is an advanced research degree during which students undertake supervised but independent research that leads to a thesis of up to 100,000 words presenting the results of that research. The thesis must demonstrate extended familiarity with and a comprehensive understanding of the subject and the academic literature in the area; show an ability to construct and execute a plan for primary research, including data collection and its critical analysis; and offer an original contribution to knowledge in the field of international affairs.

Postgraduate students on our PhD programme will first be enrolled on a Probationary PhD Status. All students enrolled onto the programme will be supported by supervisors who will help them develop a research and writing plan and guide them through the preparation of a formal final research proposal during their first two semesters of study. All research students must also subject their work to an annual progress review. Upon demonstrating satisfactory progress at the Annual Review exam at the end of their first year, which includes successfully defending a feasible research proposal, students are upgraded to Full PhD Status. Should students fail to pass their first Annual Review, they may either be asked to resubmit an amended proposal, have their registration changed to an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) degree or, in extreme cases, have their registration terminated.