PhD Politics

At Sheffield Hallam University, tuition fees are 8,865 GBP per year.

Joining the PhD in Politics at Sheffield Hallam University places you within the dynamic Sheffield Institute of Social Science, a research-active environment supporting a thriving community of scholars. This programme is designed for those who wish to produce an original, significant piece of academic work—typically an 80,000-word thesis—while benefiting from the expertise of staff who contribute directly to the Research Excellence Framework.

Research-Led Expertise

You will work closely with specialists in your chosen field, with opportunities to engage in ongoing research projects covering core themes such as:

• Charity and community work
• The politics of the European Union
• Terrorism and counterterrorism
• The political theory of new social movements
• War and security studies
• The politics of welfare

Beyond individual supervision, candidates gain from a robust support structure that includes monthly 'Research Breakfasts' focused on academic publishing, regular seminar series, and networking events hosted by the Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research and the Centre for Education and Inclusion Research. This collaborative culture ensures that your doctoral journey is supported by both peer-led activities and senior academic mentorship, preparing you for high-level roles in academia, policy, or public and commercial research sectors.

Sheffield Hallam University, established in 1843 and based in Sheffield, is a large modern university serving around 31,000 students, including approximately 3,100 international learners. The university is known for applied teaching, industry-aligned courses and strong professional links across disciplines from business and health to engineering and the creative industries. Students benefit from modern facilities, well-equipped labs and specialist studios tailored to career-focused learning.

The campus ethos emphasizes employability: placements, work-based projects and employer partnerships are embedded across many programs, helping students gain practical experience and build professional networks. Academic staff work closely with industry and regional employers on applied research and innovation, creating pathways into internships and graduate roles. Dedicated student support services assist with academic skills, careers advice and wellbeing.

Sheffield itself is a friendly, affordable student city with good transport links to the north of England and easy access to green spaces and cultural venues. International students often highlight the city’s welcoming community, active student societies and opportunities to balance study with outdoor activities. For those seeking a practical, career-oriented university experience in the UK, Sheffield Hallam offers strong employer engagement, supportive services and an accessible urban lifestyle.