Pathways to PhD Program

Current PhD students in Stanford’s Political Science department are organizing a Pathways to PhD program to foster inclusion and belonging in political science academia. There will be virtual information sessions and a mentorship program for those applying to a PhD program in the current cycle. Anyone with an interest in Political Science PhD programs is welcome.

We recognize the critical need to support prospective students from underrepresented backgrounds, including but not limited to first-generation college students, students of color, students enrolled in non-US institutions, students from public universities, students with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ students. We enthusiastically welcome members of underrepresented groups to register for the information sessions and apply for mentorship.

Information Sessions 

Pathways to PhD hosted information sessions during the spring webinar, which included helpful tips and advice from current Stanford faculty. For faculty advice on a PhD application, view the video here. For faculty advice on choosing to enter a PhD and its lifestyle, view the video here.

Mentorship for PhD Applications

The Pathways team will be providing application mentorship to prospective graduate applicants. We will have an applications process for this mentorship program. We expect that this program will assist prospective doctoral students in the application process both at Stanford and elsewhere. The program will officially begin the week of October 24th (Monday) and officially end on November 18th (Friday). Application for the Mentorship Portion. 

Please note that the Pathways webinars and mentorship program are not connected to Stanford’s PhD admissions process. For inquiries about the Pathways to PhD program in Political Science, please contact Emily Russell at eruss [at] stanford.edu or Taiwo Mustafa at tmustafa [at] stanford.edu.