PhD in International, Political & Strategic Studies – ANU
AN Australian National University logo
PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy, International, Political and Strategic Studies

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

022602C

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

4 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$234,100 total

Per year

A$58,525/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International, Political and Strategic Studies at Australian National University (ANU) is an advanced, research-intensive degree designed to cultivate deep expertise at the intersection of global politics, international relations, and strategic studies. Situated in Canberra, Australia's capital and a hub for national policymaking, this doctorate places students at the heart of the nation's political landscape, offering a unique vantage point for engagement with governmental agencies, think-tanks, and non-governmental organisations with both domestic and international influence.

The PhD typically spans four years of full-time study, structured around independent research under the guidance of expert supervisors. Candidates develop and undertake an original research project culminating in a substantial thesis that contributes new insights to the field. Australian doctoral programmes like this encourage participation in seminars, conferences, and research workshops, fostering an interdisciplinary perspective. Embedded work-integrated learning opportunities, such as collaboration with policy bodies or academic research centres, are often accessible given the proximity to federal institutions and ANU’s established networks.

During their candidature, students hone advanced skills in critical analysis, academic writing, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and project management. The programme is well suited to highly motivated candidates with a passion for global affairs, policy analysis, and political theory who aspire to leadership in academia, research, public service, or international organisations. Entry is competitive and international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency; multiple test options are available, with university and national requirements applying.

It is important to confirm application requirements and programme specifics on the official course page. International students in Australia are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters, and the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may be available to doctorate graduates who meet eligibility criteria.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.
International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

  • Academic researcher or lecturer in universities and policy institutes
  • Policy analyst or advisor within Australian government agencies or the public service
  • Strategic analyst with think-tanks or international organisations
  • Consultant in defence, foreign affairs, or security sectors
  • Researcher in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or advocacy groups
  • Roles in multinational corporations or global institutions with a focus on international policy

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy, International, Political and Strategic Studies at Australian National University?

It typically takes 4 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$234,100 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or lecturer in universities and policy institutesPolicy analyst or advisor within Australian government agencies or the public serviceStrategic analyst with think-tanks or international organisationsConsultant in defence, foreign affairs, or security sectorsRe...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

Related programs

PhD / Doctorate Philosophy
MA Macquarie University logo

Doctor of Philosophy (Arts)

Macquarie University

CRICOS 001403F · Provider 00002J

⏱ 3 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 A$131,800 total
Master's Degree Philosophy
MA Macquarie University logo

Master of Philosophy (Arts)

Macquarie University

CRICOS 056667E · Provider 00002J

⏱ 2 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 A$86,100 total