Politics

In the Politics programme offered at the University of Surrey students have the opportunity to work closely with their supervisor and other members of the academic community, in an active research environment.

The University of Surrey University of Surrey is particularly interested in promoting a lively and active community between doctoral students and members of staff, and they hold regular social events. Here at Surrey, you’ll join a cosmopolitan, multilingual and multicultural community of students and scholars.

Career opportunities

Exactly what you’ll study will depend on the topic of your PhD. We can supervise a wide range of areas relating to European politics, government and opposition, security and conflict – please see the ‘themes and facilities’ tab for a full list. During your first year you will undertake two modules in quantitative and qualitative research methods. You will also attend a series of seminars providing training and advice on research and professional development, as well as becoming a member of one of our research centres. During your PhD, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside your research supervisor and other members of staff as a paid research assistant. You will be involved in activities such as: conducting literature reviews, helping with data analysis and interpretation for current research projects. You will play an active role in the research community. During your PhD in Politics Politics you will be offered the opportunity to take on a range of paid teaching activities, fully supported by your academic colleagues. These teaching opportunities will further reinforce your personal and academic skills and help to enhance your understanding of your subject area as well as enhancing your CV significantly.

Research themes

• European foreign and security policy

• The role of the EU as an international actor

• European integration theories

• European equality policies and social policy

• Regionalism and area studies

• Area studies

• Environmental policy

• Opposition to the EU.

• Electoral behaviour

• party politics and patronage

• Campaigns and elections

• Citizens’ impressions of parties and their leaders

• Social movements, opposition and resistance

• Populism and radicalisation

• Social media