Research Scholarships in the School of Government
The School of Government is one of the leading UK and International Centres for governance, politics, international development, public management, Russian and European Studies.
School of Government Doctoral Scholarships
School scholarships are funded by the College of Social Science. They are available to candidates of the highest academic calibre who wish to conduct doctoral level study in the research areas of Politics, International Studies, International Security, International Development, Local Government Studies or Public Administration.
Each year the School is able to offer individual scholarships that cover all or part of PhD fees and a stipend for living expenses. Limited funds are available, meaning the scholarships are allocated on a competitive basis and are not open to existing PhD students.
A successful applicant will have a very good undergraduate degree (minimum of a 2:1 but, preferably, a first class honours). They should also hold, or expect to achieve, a very good Masters degree (at a distinction level) in a relevant social science subject. Their references will attest to qualities of academic achievement and research potential that make the candidate stand out above their peers. They may have already won academic prizes within their home institutions and /or internationally.
Since we are particularly keen to build on existing areas of research strength, all applicants are strongly advised to contact potential supervisors and to discuss their proposal with them prior to online submission. Scholarships are open to new offer-holders only.
How to apply
There is a combined application process for the School Scholarships. Applicants must apply for the ESRC Doctoral Training Programme, and those applications will also be considered for the School Scholarships. The deadline for submitting applications is 21 January 2025.
If you already have a place to start the doctoral programme in September 2025 and are interested in being considered for these awards, please contact your supervisor to discuss the opportunity and submit your application for the ESRC Scholarships competition. View the process for submitting your application.
If you are currently a Masters student, an offer of a scholarship will be conditional on the successful completion of your studies at the required level.
To apply to the Doctoral Programme, please go to the subject specific page listed below:
Find out more about the areas of research in the School of Government.