The World Language/Politics/International Relations-based Area Studies track at Swansea University is located within the Department of Politics, Philosophy and International Relations (PPIR). It is aligned with our doctoral program in Politics and International Relations, and includes a variety of thematic foci and research methods.

Our scope of specializations includes (i) international relations, area studies and international development; (2) comparative politics, including subnational politics and the study of political identity; (3) political communication, with a particular focus on digital politics; And (iv) political and social philosophy. Our research crosses boundaries with development studies, media and communication, and philosophy. We are intellectually pluralistic, use a wide range of quantitative and qualitative research methods, and our geographical coverage includes Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. We place great importance on linking academic work to real-world impact and seek to disseminate our findings and co-create change with partners in the Welsh and UK Government and Parliament, global policy advocates including the International Drug Policy Consortium, and a range of local and international civil society actors.

PPIR is the base of four research groups that bring together faculty and doctoral students to exchange ongoing research, discuss cutting-edge publications, and explore funding and collaboration opportunities. These research groups are: the Global Observatory on Drug Policy, the Political Analysis and Governance Research Group, the Philosophy Research Group, and the International, Conflict and Security Studies Group. We are also aligned with faculty-level research institutes focused on geopolitical challenges, security and resilience, public policy, digital economy and society, and climate action. We welcome proposals from scholars who wish to advance knowledge and seek change-making applications across these research areas.

Funding suspension

The ESRC-funded scholarship covers tuition fees and an annual tax-free living stipend in line with the UKRI minimum rates (currently £20,780 for 2025/26). Students can also access a Research Training Support Grant

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) in addition to your studies. Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)