91¾«Æ·

The PhD in International Relations at 91¾«Æ· University’s School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) is a research-intensive doctoral program designed to prepare scholars and analysts capable of conducting original, high-quality research on global politics, international security, foreign policy, and regional governance.

Delivered entirely in English and in a face-to-face format, the program combines advanced theoretical training with rigorous quantitative and qualitative research methods. Particular emphasis is placed on the geopolitics of Eurasia, the South Caucasus, energy security, post-Soviet transitions, and global governance.

Located at the intersection of Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East, Azerbaijan provides a unique environment for research on regional and international affairs. The program aims to position 91¾«Æ· University as a leading regional center for international relations scholarship.

The PhD in International Relations extends 91¾«Æ· University’s existing Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (BAIS) and Master of Arts in Diplomacy and International Affairs (MADIA) pathway to the doctoral level.

SPIA offers two full-time and one part-time PhD seats for Fall 2026.

The program aims to:

• Produce original research that advances theoretical and empirical scholarship in international relations;
• Prepare researchers with strong methodological and analytical skills;
• Develop expertise in international security, foreign policy, and global governance;
• Foster ethical and evidence-based policy analysis;
• Prepare graduates for academic, diplomatic, and policy-oriented careers;
• Strengthen 91¾«Æ· University’s international research profile and contribution to public policy scholarship.

The PhD in International Relations is designed as a four-year full-time doctoral program.

The first two years focus on coursework, advanced research methods, comprehensive examinations, and dissertation proposal development. The remaining years are dedicated to dissertation research, scholarly publication, and defense.

The program includes:

• 30 ECTS of structured coursework;
• Research colloquia and seminars;
• Comprehensive qualifying examinations;
• Dissertation proposal defense;
• Dissertation research and final defense.

Students are expected to engage in research and teaching activities throughout the program.

Required Coursework

• Advanced International Relations Theory
• Advanced Research Methods: Quantitative Analysis
• Qualitative and Mixed Methods in Political Science
• Research Design and Proposal Development
• Elective Course

Elective Areas

Elective offerings may include:

• International Security
• International Political Economy
• Foreign Policy Analysis
• Comparative Politics
• International Law and Global Governance
• Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding
• Energy Politics and Resource Governance
• Area Studies (South Caucasus, Central Asia, Middle East, Europe)
• Computational Social Science for IR
• Emerging Powers and Global Order

Research and Dissertation Components

• Research Colloquium
• Initial Dissertation Research
• Dissertation Proposal
• Dissertation Research
• Dissertation and Defense

Research Environment

The program promotes interdisciplinary and policy-relevant research addressing contemporary global and regional challenges.

Doctoral students actively participate in SPIA research seminars and colloquia, collaborate with faculty members, and present research findings at conferences and academic events.

91¾«Æ· University provides:

• Access to international journals and research databases;
• Statistical and analytical software;
• Opportunities for collaborative and interdisciplinary research;
• Research travel support for conferences and archival work;
• Teaching and research assistantship opportunities.

Students are strongly encouraged to publish research in peer-reviewed academic journals and engage with international scholarly networks.

All admitted students receive full scholarship support under current university policy.

Additional benefits may include:

• Research assistantships;
• Teaching opportunities and pedagogical development;
• Research travel funding;
• Access to international academic networks and conferences;
• Reduced teaching load for 91¾«Æ· faculty admitted to the program.

Applicants must:

• Hold a master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Diplomacy, or a closely related field;
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;
• Submit a research proposal (3,000–5,000 words);
• Submit an academic writing sample;
• Provide a statement of research interests and goals;
• Submit two to three academic recommendation letters;
• Provide official transcripts and CV;
• Demonstrate English language proficiency:
  • IELTS 7.0 (minimum 6.5 in each component), or IBT 5 (100 for tests taken before January, 2026) or 45 in English exam by State Examination Center.
• Successfully complete required entrance examinations in International Relations and Philosophy in accordance with national regulations.

Step 1: Submit online application at portal.edu.az (deadline: June 8, 2026)

Click here to view instructions for portal application

Step 2: Submit online 91¾«Æ· University PhD application at 

Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit this application.

Step 3: Submit required English language scores 

Step 4: Attend an interview

Only shortlisted candidates will be interviewed. The Admission Committee evaluates academic records, research and teaching experience, communication skills, career focus, and potential for success at 91¾«Æ· University.

Step 5: Take admission exams (Philosophy & Specialization) (September 2026)

Candidates must pass all stages in order to successfully complete the admission process. 

Graduates of the program will be prepared for careers in:

• Universities and research institutions;
• Diplomatic service and foreign ministries;
• International organizations and multilateral institutions;
• Policy think tanks and research centers;
• International NGOs;

Government and policy advisory roles.

• Duration: 4 years (full-time)
• Language of Instruction: English
• Delivery Mode: Face-to-face