PhD in International Relations

At East China Normal University (ECNU), the deadline to apply for the Sep 2027 intake is Jun 15, 2027, and tuition comes to 30,000 CNY per year.

The PhD in International Relations at East China Normal University is for students who want to study international relations in depth. This 4-year PhD program is taught in English and helps students develop strong research skills.

The curriculum covers subjects like global politics, international law, and diplomacy. Students will develop skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking. They will also have the chance to work on projects and conduct fieldwork.

Graduates of this program can work as Foreign Policy Analysts, International Relations Specialists, Diplomats, Global Affairs Consultants, or Human Rights Advocates. They can find jobs in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies that deal with international relations.

East China Normal University, founded in 1951 and based in Shanghai, is a nationally prominent research university known for teacher training, education sciences and wide-ranging academic disciplines. Supported by national development programs, the university offers dozens of undergraduate majors, extensive postgraduate options and a growing portfolio of doctoral studies. With two leafy campuses in Minhang and Putuo, ECNU combines rigorous scholarship with vibrant campus life and strong international partnerships.

Students can choose from many programs across humanities, sciences, social sciences, engineering and education, supported by research institutes and more than 200 academic programs. ECNU emphasizes internationalization through collaborations with over 150 universities worldwide and dedicated services for international students. Campus facilities include sports venues, research labs and active student associations that foster leadership, cultural exchange and extracurricular development.

For international students, ECNU offers an academically challenging yet supportive environment with numerous opportunities for research, internships and cross-border collaboration. The universitys focus on teaching excellence and innovation in education makes it a compelling destination for those aiming to pursue careers in academia, public service or industry. Living in Shanghai also provides rich cultural, professional and social experiences that complement studies and broaden future career pathways.