Politics (Ph.D.)

A résumé is required.

A writing sample is required:

• A writing sample of 15-50 double-spaced pages – a term paper, thesis, article, or conference paper – which represents your best research, and a capacity to engage in scholarly inquiry. The work need not be in the area of politics, but should reveal an ability to address abstract issues and formulate and investigate precise hypotheses.

A statement of purpose is required:

• Please describe your plans for graduate study and doctoral-level research. The selection committee will evaluate the statement of purpose in terms of how well-developed, important, and feasible the anticipated program of research is, and how well it fits with our department and with specific potential advisers. Please also briefly address your plans for future occupation or profession, and include any other information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and qualifications for graduate study at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages.

A personal history statement is also required:

• Required of all applicants. This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Note that the personal history statement should not duplicate the statement of purpose. Recommended length is a concise 1-3 pages.
• UC Santa Cruz is interested in a diverse and inclusive graduate student population. In an essay, discuss how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Include any educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences, challenges, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how you might contribute to social or cultural diversity within your chosen field; and/or how you might serve educationally underrepresented segments of society with your degree.

3 letters of recommendation are required.