We welcome applications from prospective students interested in undertaking a PhD programme with an expert in the Department of International Studies. We are an active and engaged community that will provide you with leading-edge research opportunities.<br><br>Our programme, based at Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool University, is a strategic research collaboration between XJTLU and the University of Liverpool. You will receive supervision from respected academics at both institutions. Upon successful completion of your programme, you will receive a University of Liverpool-issued degree, which is recognised by China's Ministry of Education.<br><br>As a registered full-time PhD student, you may apply for a research visit to the University of Liverpool for up to six months. This travel option is typically undertaken during the second year of the PhD and is an opportunity to work with your Liverpool-based supervisor. If your application to travel is successful, XJTLU and the University of Liverpool will cover your accommodation and travel costs for this study abroad opportunity.<br><br>Our PhD students engage in a supportive research environment. The XJTLU Graduate School and the XJTLU School of Humanities and Social Science (HSS) work to foster this community through research seminars and conferences, as well as opportunities to acquire practical experience as research assistants and teaching assistants. This is in combination with training offered by the Doctoral College at the University of Liverpool.<br><br>Pursuing a full-time PhD typically involves three years of conducting research and one year of writing a thesis, supported by skills training and development. A full-time PhD student must submit a thesis within four years. A part-time PhD student must submit it in six years. XJTLU provides every registered PhD student with up to 16,500 RMB over the course of study for expenses related to attending academic conferences. The purpose of this fund is to support your academic experience and encourage the dissemination of research.<br><br>The PhD in International Relations offers supervision across a wide range of subjects, including most areas of international relations, area studies, history, international communications and politics.