PhD in International Studies at Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University

United States of America, Baltimore

University Rank:#24

Johns Hopkins University offers the PhD of International Studies as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its main campus in Baltimore, United States of America. Taught in English and completed over 4 years, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for international studies and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on May 22, 2027.

About PhD in International Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program is for individuals who have already earned a Master's degree (or have other substantial research experience) and seek to further their expertise as scholars and practitioners of international relations. PhD students work closely with faculty advisors to develop an academic plan that best supports their dissertation research. Throughout the program students develop a comprehensive understanding of qualitative and quantitative analytical skills, international relations, economics, and regional studies.

PhD students begin their studies in Washington, DC. During the dissertation stage, students can explore opportunities to study at SAIS Europe, the Hopkins Nanjing Center, or at other prominent global institutions.

Johns Hopkins SAIS graduates are sought after by employers in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Their knowledge of economics, analytical abilities, regional expertise, diplomatic skills, international experience, language proficiency, as well as capacity to apply theory to real-world problems, give students a distinct professional advantage.

PhD Fields of Study

PhD students will have one of the following concentrations (either a policy or region):

International Policy Areas

American Foreign Policy
Energy, Resources and Environment
Global Theory and History
International Development
International Relations
International Political Economy
Strategic Studies

Regions of the World

African Studies
Canadian Studies
China Studies
European and Eurasian Studies
Japan Studies
Korea Studies
Latin American Studies
Middle East Studies
South Asia Studies
Southeast Asia Studies

Faculty Advisors

Our faculty experts and scholars are internationally recognized for their scholarship, experience, and quality of teaching. They are award-winning scholars, authors, diplomats, thinkers, and senior ranking officials who are authorities on international economics and international relations and who have expertise in contemporary issues around the world.

All PhD students have a tenured, faculty advisor. The advisor has primary responsibility for coordinating the candidate's research agenda. Another senior member of the dissertation committee or "second reader" monitors the student's research throughout the dissertation project. Both the faculty advisor and the second reader are to be substantively involved in the student's preparation of the prospectus and the dissertation.

While the student will work actively with the first and second readers to prepare a dissertation prospectus, the student should also consult with the three supporting committee members throughout the doctoral research.

Prospective and current PhD students are encouraged to use the Faculty Directory to identify individuals to approach about involvement in their research and dissertation.

Disciplines

School of Advanced International Studies

Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in International Studies at Johns Hopkins University

Entry Requirements

Hopkins invests in developing global perspectives so students can be engaged citizens wherever they are.

As a global university with students from all over the world, we welcome all kinds of experiences and new ways of thinking. We’re here to connect international students with the resources you need to become leaders and active members in our community and beyond.

Please email [email protected] with any general international admissions questions. You can also email your regional admissions counselor if you have any questions specific to the area where you live or study.

English Requirements

IELTSMin 7
TOEFLMin 100

Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in International Studies at Johns Hopkins University

Application Fee 70

How to Apply for PhD in International Studies at Johns Hopkins University

Your completed application

The Hopkins supplement, which includes our supplemental essay

Class of 2027 Supplemental Essay Prompt

Founded on a spirit of exploration and discovery, Johns Hopkins University encourages students to share their perspectives, develop their interests and pursue new experiences. Use this space to share something you’d like the admissions committee to know about you (your interests, your background, your identity, or your community) and how it has shaped what you want to get out of your college experience at Hopkins. (300-400 words)

The $70 application fee or fee waiver

You can request a fee waiver directly through the Common Application or Coalition on Scoir. If you don’t meet the eligibility criteria on the application and need support covering the application fee, have a representative from your current high school submit our fee waiver request form.

Your standardized test scores Optional

If you choose to submit your scores, our admissions committee will consider them as additional context in our review process. You’re welcome to submit SAT, ACT, AP, IB, English language proficiency exams, or any other score you feel reflects your academic ability. Applicants aren’t at a disadvantage if they don’t submit test scores.

Your signed Early Decision Agreement Early Decision I and II only

If you’re applying as an Early Decision applicant, you must submit a binding agreement to attend Hopkins if admitted.

PhD in International Studies at Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University

United States of America, Baltimore