PhD – International Relations

The PhD program in International Relations at Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore, is designed to offer advanced academic and research training in the field of International Relations. The program aims to develop scholars with a deep understanding of international theories and practices, equipped with the skills necessary to address complex global issues. It aims to develop scholars who will lead the field in both theoretical and practical aspects of International Relations. The scope of the PhD program is vast, encompassing various subfields like international security, global political economy, international law, and human rights. By understanding the dynamics of international interactions, IR scholars and practitioners can contribute to the formulation of effective foreign policies, conflict resolution strategies, and sustainable development initiatives. In an increasingly interconnected world, the study of International Relations is essential for addressing global challenges and promoting international cooperation. By understanding the dynamics of international interactions, PhD IR scholars and practitioners can contribute to the formulation of effective foreign policies, conflict resolution strategies, and sustainable development initiatives. Our program is designed to provide advanced training in research methods, critical thinking, and in-depth knowledge of international political dynamics. The program is based on problem-solving skills and provides students with a critical and analytical approach to help shape their unique vision of present-day global issues. It attempts to breed a generation of future policymakers, thinkers, social scientists and researchers. The program intends to provide a platform where students are encouraged to participate in different seminars, talks, and debates and to groom themselves through formal exchanges and sharing of ideas. The program caters for students from multiple disciplines with a special focus on social sciences however it is not limited to that field. We invite students from the disciplines of International Relations, Political Science, Law, History, Media Studies, Gender Studies, Sociology, Philosophy and Strategic and Defense Studies.

Objectives of the Program

The PhD program in International Relations at Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore, aims to develop scholars with a deep and nuanced understanding of global political dynamics. The primary objectives of the program are to provide advanced academic and research training, fostering the ability to critically analyze and contribute to theoretical and empirical debates within the field. The program seeks to equip students with comprehensive research skills, enabling them to conduct independent, original research that addresses significant international issues. Additionally, it aims to prepare graduates for academic and professional careers, contributing to policy-making, international organizations, and non-governmental sectors. Through a rigorous curriculum and mentorship from experienced faculty, the program strives to cultivate thought leaders who can advance knowledge in International Relations and apply their expertise to solve complex global problems.

Scope of the Program

This program integrates coursework with research to provide a comprehensive educational experience, offering numerous career opportunities both within Pakistan and internationally.

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia as teachers and facilitators, with opportunities available domestically and abroad.
The program equips students to serve as researchers in prestigious national and international think tanks.
It fosters the development of policy-making institutions and research organizations, addressing the high demands of International Relations.
A key strength of the program is its preparation of students for roles in embassies, where they can serve as staff and liaisons between host states and foreign officials.
Students trained in this program will possess in-depth knowledge of regional issues, narratives, and goals pursued by Pakistan, thereby supporting the country’s foreign policy objectives.
The program emphasizes the presentation of perspectives from the developing world, addressing gaps in the field of International Relations.
The program enhances students’ research and analytical skills, enabling them to excel in diplomatic practices.
It aims to empower women by providing a supportive and conducive learning environment.

Eligibility Criteria

MPhil degree in International Relations or a closely related field of social sciences (i.e Defense and Strategic Studies, Peace and Conflict, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism, Political Science, History, Media Studies, Gender Studies, and Sociology etc.) from an HEC-accredited institution.
GRE General / HEC HAT General with a minimum score of 60% OR HEC HAT General type test conducted by Kinnaird College with a minimum score of 60%.
Subject-Specific test with a minimum score of 60%.
Successful qualification in the Departmental Admission Interview, which is an integral part of the admission process.

Course Structure

PhD 3 Years Program

Year	Semester	Name of Subject	Credits
First (Course Work)	I	Core I	3
		Core II	3
		Elective I	3
	II	Core III	3
		Core IV	3
		Elective II	3
Coursework Total Credit Hours			18
Second	III	Dissertation	–
Second	IV
Third	V
Third	VI

List of Core Courses

Course Title
International Relations: Advanced Theory and Practice
Advanced Research Methodology

List of Optional Courses

Optional Subjects
Conflict and Cooperation in South Asia
Peace Building in Post-conflict Societies
Contemporary Issues in International Strategic Environment
Ethnic Conflict in Global Perspective
Politics of Middle East
Contemporary Trends in International Law
Foreign Policy Analyses
An Analysis of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy
Role of International Financial Institutions in International Relations
Note: Optional Subjects will be decided by the Department on the availability of Faculty members relating to the discipline.

Faculty and Supervision

The faculty at the Department of International Relations consists of experienced and highly qualified scholars with expertise in various sub-fields of International Relations. They provide quality education and research guidance to students.

Dr. Aiysha Safdar

Dr. Aiysha Safdar is an Associate Professor and the Head of the Department of International Relations at Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore. She holds a PhD in International Relations from Punjab University, Lahore, and an MPhil in International Relations from Kinnaird College, Lahore, where she also completed her B.A (Hons).

Her doctoral thesis, titled “Power Politics in the Indian Ocean: Impact on Regional Stability (2001-2011),” reflects her deep engagement with Security Studies, South Asian Politics, Strategic and Defense Studies, and both Regional and Global Affairs. Dr. Ayisha Safdar has been honored with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Award for her significant contributions to education by the former Principal of Kinnaird College, Prof. Dr. Rukhsana David. She is also a recipient of the Sustainable Development Goals Excellence Awards 2024 by the Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan. She is recognized in the AD Scientific Rankings 2024 for her impactful research contributions.

Before joining Kinnaird College, Dr. Aiysha Safdar served at the Pakistan Navy War College as Directing Staff Research. In this role, she was the Chief Editor of several annual publications, including the Research Compendium, Research Treasure, and The Beacon. She also supervised the research reports and service papers of mid-career Naval Officers enrolled in the Staff Course. Dr. Ayisha Safdar continues to contribute to various academic journals.

Currently, she is an Associate Professor and the Head of the Department at Kinnaird College, where she remains dedicated to her research and teaching.

Dr. Asia Mukhtar

Dr. Asia Mukhtar, an Assistant Professor and distinguished scholar in International Relations, has an impressive 24-year professional career, including seven years of service at Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore. She is a triple gold medalist and distinction holder in her academic career.

Dr. Mukhtar holds a German Language Certification from Goethe Zentrum, Lahore, and has undergone teaching training from the British Council, Lahore. She is the author of four books and has contributed to two edited volumes, published by Brill Netherlands, Cambridge Scholar, and Peace Publications International, Lahore.

Dr. Asia Mukhtar has published numerous national and international articles in X, Y, and W category journals and has actively participated in various conferences, presenting numerous papers. Her dedication to academia is further demonstrated through her mentorship, having supervised over 20 MPhil theses and guided numerous BS students in their research projects, thereby fostering the next generation of scholars in her field.

Dr. Qudsia Akram

Dr. Qudsia Akram is a distinguished academic with extensive expertise in International Relations. She earned her PhD in International Relations from the University of Punjab and holds an MPhil in International Relations from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, along with a B.S. (Hons) in International Relations from Lahore College for Women University.

Since December 2019, Dr. Qudsia Akram has served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of International Relations at Kinnaird College for Women in Lahore. Her research interests encompass international politics and security, with a specific focus on the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Additionally, she specializes in Foreign Policy Analysis of Major Powers, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, and the study of Violent Non-State Actors.

Dr. Qudsia Akram has actively contributed to the academic community by participating in conferences and presenting her research. She has supervised numerous MPhil and undergraduate research projects on a wide range of topics within International Relations. Dedicated to staying abreast of the latest developments in her field, Dr. Qudsia Akram continuously strives to enhance her teaching and research capabilities.

Dr. Shireen Mushtaq

Dr. Shireen Mushtaq is an Assistant Professor in the Department of International Relations at Kinnaird College for Women in Lahore, Pakistan. She holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of the Punjab.

Her research primarily focuses on international security, conflict management, nationalism, and climate change, with a particular expertise in the politics of South Asia. Her articles have been published in International Affairs, Journal of International Peace and Stability, Malaysian Journal of International Relations, Journal of Indian Studies, among others. She is also the author of several book chapters and opinion pieces.

Dr. Shireen Mushtaq has participated in several international conferences and policy dialogues. She is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment through education and an accomplished public speaker who has delivered lectures at a variety of institutions.

Dr. Shireen Mushtaq also serves as an advisor to the International Relations Club at Kinnaird College, a dynamic society dedicated to promoting active participation of students in diverse academic programs from various institutions.

PhD – International Relations

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PhD – International Relations