The Doctor of Philosophy (International and Political Studies) is Australia's highest research degree in the fields of international relations, political science, and strategic studies. It is a rigorous, independent research program typically spanning three to four years full-time, in which candidates design and execute an original research project under the guidance of a supervisory panel of academic experts. The program encompasses a vast range of research areas including international political economy, globalisation, foreign policy and diplomacy, security and strategic studies, comparative politics, political theory, public policy, regional studies (including Asia-Pacific), international terrorism, development studies, and gendered international politics. Unlike coursework degrees, the PhD is primarily thesis-driven, culminating in a substantial work of up to 100,000 words that makes an original and significant contribution to the field of knowledge.

This qualification is designed for intellectually driven individuals who wish to become recognised authorities in their chosen area of international or political inquiry. It suits those aiming for careers in academia, senior government, the intelligence community, international organisations, think tanks, journalism, or the not-for-profit sector. Employers of graduates span a wide spectrum: federal and state government departments (including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Defence), intergovernmental bodies such as the United Nations and its agencies, global NGOs, policy research institutes, media organisations, and universities across Australia and internationally. The degree signals a candidate's capacity for high-level analytical thinking, independent inquiry, and the ability to communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences.

Admission to a PhD in International and Political Studies in Australia typically requires completion of at least a four-year undergraduate Honours degree (or equivalent) with a result of at least Second Class Honours, Division A (H2A), in a relevant discipline such as political science, international relations, history, law, or a closely related social science field. Many universities alternatively accept a Master's degree by research or a Master's degree with a significant research component (such as a thesis) at a high level of academic achievement. In exceptional cases, applicants with substantial professional research experience in lieu of formal qualifications may be considered on a case-by-case basis. A detailed research proposal outlining the intended topic, research questions, methodology, and preliminary literature review is almost universally required at the time of application, and applicants are expected to identify and obtain the agreement of a potential supervisor prior to lodging a formal application.

English language proficiency is mandatory for all applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds. Most Australian universities require an IELTS Academic overall score of at least 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.0 to 6.5), or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT (typically 90–100), PTE Academic (64–65), or Cambridge C1 Advanced. Some institutions set higher thresholds for research degrees. Work experience in government, international organisations, NGOs, journalism, or defence is not always mandatory but is highly regarded and can strengthen an application considerably. Academic referee reports from two or more supervisors or academics who can speak to the applicant's research capability are standard requirements. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview with a prospective supervisory panel before a final offer is made.