Pursuing a PhD in International Relations or Political Science Through Distance Learning at Salve Regina University

Salve Regina University, located in Newport, Rhode Island, offers an impressive and robust online PhD program in International Relations. This program stands out as the nation's first online PhD program in this field, providing unique educational opportunities for students globally.

Program Description

The PhD program at Salve Regina University is a comprehensive and rigorous academic pursuit that prepares students for advanced research and leadership in the field of international relations. This program not only provides exceptional theoretical and practical knowledge but also emphasizes the importance of independent research, critical thinking, and effective communication.

Language Proficiency Requirement

Enrollment in the program requires students to meet a language proficiency requirement. This can be achieved either by passing a language test administered by a designated department or by successfully completing two courses at the 200-level or higher with a grade of 'B' or better. For international students whose native language is not English, their mother tongue can be used to fulfill the requirement. It's crucial for students to complete this requirement before taking the comprehensive examination.

Comprehensive Examination

Upon successful completion of the coursework and language proficiency requirement, students are required to pass a comprehensive written examination. This exam is conducted via teleconference and lasts for six hours. The examination consists of three questions – one from general knowledge of the area of study and two from a focus area of the student's choice. The examination tests the student's familiarity with the related literature and their analytical, comparative, critical, and insightful capabilities. Examinations are graded on a scale of high distinction, distinction, pass, or fail. Students have one opportunity to retake the exam if they do not pass.

Dissertation Phase

Upon passing the comprehensive examination, students enter the dissertation phase. This phase involves a systematic, in-depth, and detailed study of the student's preferred focus area. Working closely with faculty members, students secure a first reader from the list of faculty teaching in the program. The first reader assists in selecting the dissertation topic, and once the topic is agreed upon, the student and the first reader select a second reader. The first and second readers are responsible for supervising the student's work.

The dissertation process begins with the preparation and defense of a dissertation prospectus. This document includes a title, abstract, scope and objectives, questions to be answered or hypotheses to be tested, major sources and methods to be employed, and a tentative outline and bibliography. The prospectus should serve as a working plan rather than a substantial introduction to the topic. Once the prospectus is approved by both readers, students defend it in an oral examination before the dissertation committee at the university's campus. In exceptional cases, the defense can be conducted online.

Completion of the Program

A typical dissertation should be at least 200 pages in length and should make an original contribution to the field of international relations. The dissertation process culminates in the successful defense of the work before the dissertation committee. Upon successful completion of all requirements, students will earn their PhD degree from Salve Regina University.

Salve Regina University: Located in Newport, Rhode Island, Salve Regina University offers students the opportunity to pursue a PhD in International Relations through its cutting-edge online program. For more information on the application process, admission requirements, and financial aid options, visit the university's official website.

Note: For further details and updates, please visit the official website of Salve Regina University for the most accurate and current information.