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Doctor of Philosophy (International Relations and Diplomacy )
Doctor of Philosophy (International Relations and Diplomacy )
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Relations and Diplomacy is a three-year research-intensive doctoral program designed to cultivate globally competitive scholars, policymakers, and practitioners.
Introduction
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Relations and Diplomacy is a three-year research-intensive doctoral program designed to cultivate globally competitive scholars, policymakers, and practitioners. The program equips candidates with advanced theoretical knowledge, cutting-edge research skills, and the intellectual tools necessary to critically analyze and address contemporary issues in international politics, diplomacy, and global governance.
This PhD responds to the pressing need for high-level expertise in international relations and diplomacy in Somalia, the Horn of Africa, and beyond. It positions graduates to contribute meaningfully to academia, foreign policy, peacebuilding, and international cooperation. In line with leading global standards from institutions such as Makerere University, the University of Nairobi, the University of the Witwatersrand, and Harvard University, the program emphasizes original research, academic publishing, and policy relevance.
Program Objectives
The PhD in International Relations and Diplomacy aims to:
Develop high-caliber scholars and researchers capable of advancing theory and practice in international relations and diplomacy.
Foster policy-relevant research that contributes to Somalia’s national priorities, the Horn of Africa’s regional integration, and global peace and security agendas.
Strengthen institutional capacity in diplomacy, governance, and peacebuilding through evidence-based insights.
Promote academic publishing and knowledge dissemination, positioning SIMAD University as a hub of regional and global scholarship.
Enhance leadership capacity in academia, diplomatic services, government, and multilateral organizations.
Rationale and Justification
Somalia and the Horn of Africa face complex political, security, and diplomatic challenges requiring innovative solutions informed by rigorous research. Yet, the region has limited doctoral-level training in International Relations and Diplomacy. Establishing this PhD program addresses this gap by:
- Building a cadre of well-trained academics and professionals capable of contributing to peace, governance, and development.
- Bridging academia and practice by producing research that informs both scholarly debate and real-world policymaking.
- Enhancing Somalia’s engagement in regional and global diplomacy, contributing to the African Union, East African Community, United Nations, and other international organizations.
- Aligning with Somalia’s National Development Plan (NDP-9) and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
Graduate Profile
Graduates of this program will be:
- Scholars capable of publishing in top peer-reviewed journals and contributing to global academic debates.
- Policy advisors and diplomats skilled in providing evidence-based recommendations for Somalia’s foreign policy and regional diplomacy.
- Thought leaders who strengthen institutions and promote peace, governance, and sustainable development.
- Global citizens who engage with international organizations and academic communities across Africa and the world.
Doctoral Program Timeline and Graduation Requirements
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Relations and Diplomacy is a structured research-intensive program that integrates coursework, examinations, dissertation research, and scholarly engagement. To ensure academic excellence and timely completion, the students should meet the program designated timeline and graduation requirements.
Graduation Requirements
To be awarded the PhD in International Relations and Diplomacy, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Coursework
- Successful completion of all prescribed courses (minimum 29 CU).
- Maintenance of a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0.
- Examinations & Colloquia
- Successful completion of the Comprehensive Examination.
- Active participation in Doctoral Colloquia, seminars, and progress jury meetings.
- Dissertation
- Approval of a dissertation proposal by the Doctoral Committee.
- Completion of original, independent research that makes a significant contribution to international relations and diplomacy.
- Final dissertation must be approved by both internal and external examiners and defended publicly.
- Language Proficiency Requirement
- All PhD candidates must demonstrate adequate English proficiency (language of instruction).
- Accepted tests and minimum scores:
- Cambridge Linguaskill: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
- IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall band
- TOEFL iBT: 72
- Publications & Dissemination
- Publication of at least two (2) scholarly articles in peer-reviewed journals indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, or equivalent databases.
- Presentation of research findings at least one regional or international academic conference.
- Ethical & Professional Standards
- Adherence to the highest standards of academic integrity and research ethics, including compliance with SIMAD’s Research Ethics Committee protocols.
- Demonstration of professional conduct in teaching, supervision, and/or policy engagement activities related to the program.
- Clearance & Certification
- Obtain financial and School clearance from SIMAD University.
- Recommendation for graduation by the Doctoral Committee and approval by the University Senate.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Relations and Diplomacy is a three-year research-intensive doctoral program designed to cultivate globally competitive scholars, policymakers, and practitioners. The program equips candidates with advanced theoretical knowledge, cutting-edge research skills, and the intellectual tools necessary to critically analyze and address contemporary issues in international politics, diplomacy, and global governance.
This PhD responds to the pressing need for high-level expertise in international relations and diplomacy in Somalia, the Horn of Africa, and beyond. It positions graduates to contribute meaningfully to academia, foreign policy, peacebuilding, and international cooperation. In line with leading global standards from institutions such as Makerere University, the University of Nairobi, the University of the Witwatersrand, and Harvard University, the program emphasizes original research, academic publishing, and policy relevance.
Program Structure
Code | Course | Credit Unit |
DOC 9101 | Philosophy Methods | 4 |
DOC 9102 | Advanced Research Methods | 4 |
DOC 9103 | Academic Writing and Critique | 3 |
DIRD 9101 | Theories of International Relations | 3 |
DIRD 9102 | Contemporary Issues in International Relations |
|
DIRD 9103 | Politics and Society in the Horn of Africa |
|
DIRD 9201 | Somali Foreign Policy | 3 |
Elective Courses | ||
DIRD 9203 | International Security and Strategic Studies | 3 |
DIRD 9204 | Global Governance and International Organizations | 3 |
DIRD 9205 | Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation | 3 |
Applicants seeking admission into the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Relations and Diplomacy must satisfy the following requirements:
- A master’s degree in international relations, Political Science, Diplomacy, Peace and Conflict Studies, Development Studies, or a closely related field from a recognized university.
- A strong academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent). Exceptional applicants with professional achievements may also be considered.
- Submission of a concept note (2,500 words) that clearly outlines the intended research problem, objectives, theoretical framework, and methodology.
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlines academic, professional, and research experience.
- Coursework Completion
- Students are required to complete all core and elective courses within the first two semesters of enrollment (minimum 29 credit units).
- Students are encouraged to select a research topic or area of interest early in the program to facilitate timely progression.
- Qualification/Comprehensive Examination
- The Qualification Examination should ideally be completed by the end of Semester Three.
- If a student is unable to pass or complete the exam in Semester Three, it may be conducted in Semester Four.
- The examination will assess mastery of theories of international relations, research methodologies, and the student’s area of specialization.
- Research Proposal
- By the end of Semester Four, students are required to present and defend their research proposal before the Doctoral Committee.
- Upon approval, students will proceed to full dissertation research under the guidance of their supervisor.
- Research Progress & Monitoring
- Students must regularly present their research progress to a doctoral committee chaired by their supervisor.
- At the end of each semester, candidates will submit a progress report detailing achievements, challenges, and plans for the next phase.
- Students must successfully participate in at least three out of five progress doctoral committee meetings during their candidature.
- Dissertation & Defense
- Upon completing research, students will submit their dissertation for examinations by internal and external examiners.
- A public oral defense (viva voce) before the SIMAD University Doctoral Jury is required for final approval.
- Application Fees 100
- 1250 USD per Semester for Six Semesters (7,500)
- Administrative Fees 500 USD
- Graduation Fees 400 USD