About this Program

The Ph.D. in International Studies is a highly customizable and interdisciplinary degree. The Graduate Program in International Studies (GPIS) offers advanced research opportunities and training in global problems and transnational issues. Students may choose two of several concentrations to focus their studies: Comparative Cultural and Political Studies, Conflict and Cooperation, International Political Economy & Development, Modeling & Simulation, Strategic Leadership or U.S. Foreign Policy & International Relations.

Program Highlights

  • Interdisciplinary approaches to global problems

  • Individual mentoring

  • Dedicated career development opportunities

  • Strong alumni community

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Graduate
Degree Earned
Doctor of Philosophy
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ¹ÏÉñÍø's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the . A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Alumni Careers

Government Departments and Agencies
Non-governmental Organizations
Governmental Organizations
Academia

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for International Studies at ¹ÏÉñÍø?
Students entering the Doctor of Philosophy program in International Studies should meet the minimum university admission requirements Graduate Admission.

All candidates for admission into the Ph.D. must submit:

  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (may be waived on a case-by-case basis for PhD applicants depending on prior qualifications at the master’s level).

  • Official transcripts of all undergraduate or prior graduate course work submitted directly by all universities attended.

  • An essay of not more than 500 words describing interest in and capacity for advanced training in global/transnational issues.

  • One example of writing or research (a paper submitted to a seminar, a publication or report, or another comparable example).

  • Three letters of recommendation addressing the candidate's capacity to undertake graduate work on international global issues.

  • Any prior graduate course work taken at ¹ÏÉñÍø (e.g., in non-degree status) or at another institution can be counted toward the Ph.D. degree only in accordance with the provisions governing transfer of credit and the director’s approval.

Cost of Attendance

We believe in providing students with transparent and accessible information about the cost of attendance. 

Review the estimated tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year (subject to change). Non-resident rates are charged for anyone who is not a current Virginia resident, including international students.

Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $620
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $642
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,486

Ways to Fund Your Degree

There are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ¹ÏÉñÍø, including scholarships, assistantships, and student loans. For more details about financial aid at ¹ÏÉñÍø, visit the Financial Aid Office page.

Contact

Associate Professor & Director of International Studies Programs

7047 BATTEN ARTS & LETTERS
NORFOLK, 23529