PhD International Development by Distance Learning

Program Overview

The University of Birmingham's International Development PhD by Distance Learning empowers individuals with advanced research skills and knowledge in international development. Through self-paced study and guidance from expert supervisors, students conduct original research and contribute to the field, culminating in a substantial thesis. The program provides access to research events, career support, and networking opportunities, fostering career advancement in various development-related settings.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The International Development PhD by Distance Learning is a research-based program offered by the International Development Department (IDD) at the University of Birmingham. It is designed for individuals who are unable to live and work on campus on a regular basis. The program aims to encourage new thinking in the fields of development and public management. It provides the opportunity to conduct original research under the guidance of academic supervisors, leading to an 80,000-word thesis.

Objectives:

• To conduct original research in the field of international development.
• To develop advanced research skills and knowledge.
• To contribute to the body of knowledge in international development.

Description:

• The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.
• Students take a number of research training modules in their first year.
• Students may attend further courses offered by the Department or the University to enhance their discipline-specific and transferable skills.
• The program requires a high level of self-discipline, motivation, and commitment to the subject of research.
• Students are expected to attend a one-week visit to the University at the start of their studies.
• The College of Social Sciences will make a generous contribution to accommodation and travel costs for the visit.
• Distance Learning students are not required to attend the University for the remainder of their studies but are welcome to visit at their own expense.

Assessment:

• The program culminates in the submission of an 80,000-word thesis.
• The thesis is examined by an external and an internal examiner.
• The examiners will judge whether the thesis demonstrates:
• Knowledge of the relevant academic literature
• Skill in use of research methods
• Independent investigation
• Arguments presented in a coherent and appropriate form

Teaching:

• Students are provided with guidance from academic supervisors.
• Supervisors are experienced in managing the research process and are chosen to complement the student's area of interest.
• Students discuss their research with a panel annually.
• The panel is chaired by an experienced researcher from the department and includes the student's supervisor and another member of staff.
• The panel provides an opportunity to present progress on research and to have a wider discussion about the work.
• Supervisors read and comment on drafts of the thesis before it is finally submitted.

Careers:

• The program cultivates specialist knowledge in the field of international development and professional skills for a range of career settings.
• The College of Social Sciences has specially designated careers advisors and consultants who can provide guidance for doctoral researchers on career paths, CVs, training opportunities, application, and interviews.
• The University has dedicated careers advisors for International students who run workshops and networking opportunities with potential employers.

Other:

• The School of Government offers a wide range of research events with staff and other doctoral students, including a PGR Colloquium and departmental speaker series.
• An individual training plan is drawn up to meet the needs of each student, covering coursework and skills development.
• The IDD is particularly interested in receiving applications on the following themes:
• Conflict and post-conflict reconstruction
• Governance and politics of development
• Natural resource governance, management, and livelihoods
• Politics of environmental change and sustainable development
• Inequality, poverty, and anti-corruption
• Democracy and authoritarianism
• Public sector management and decentralisation