Program Overview

MRes/PhD International Development

The MRes/PhD International Development is a vibrant programme that uses a variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary methods from across the social sciences to explore questions of global development.

Introduction

This programme provides a deep understanding of complex processes of social, political, and economic change, and produces original research on international development themes.

Key Information

• Study mode: Home full-time students (Four to five years - one year MRes, three to four years PhD) Open
• Overseas full-time students (Four to five years - one year MRes, three to four years PhD) Open
• Home part-time students (See "Your application" for more information) Open
• Academic year: 2026/27
• Start date: 28 September 2026
• Location: Houghton Street, London
• Application deadline: 10 December 2025

Overview

The MRes programme is the entry point to doctoral research and is designed both to train students in development approaches and perspectives, and to provide significant flexibility to develop advanced methodological and theoretical skills within disciplinary specialisms appropriate to their research interests.

Entry Requirements

• Taught master’s degree with 65 or above overall and in the dissertation element, or the equivalent.
• GRE/GMAT requirement: Highly recommended but not compulsory.
• English language requirements: The English language requirement for this programme is Higher.

Programme Content

• Year 1: Introductory course, MRes programme, and methodology courses.
• Year 2: PhD programme, implementing research plan.
• Year 3: Continuing with PhD.
• Year 4: Continuing with PhD or submitting thesis.

Why Study with Us

• The Department of International Development promotes interdisciplinary graduate teaching and research on processes of social, political, and economic development and change.
• Our academics and researchers explore the causes of poverty, social exclusion, economic stagnation, humanitarian crises, and human security.

Your Application

• We welcome applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of our staff at LSE.
• We carefully consider each application and take into account all the information included on the form.

Fees and Funding

• Home student fee (2026/27): £5,131
• Overseas student fee (2026/27): £24,400
• Scholarships, bursaries, and loans: We recognise that the cost of living in London may be higher than in your home town/city or country and we provide generous scholarships to help both home and overseas students.

Learning and Assessment

• How you learn: Through a combination of structured courses and training, and independent exploration.
• How you're assessed: Progression and assessment, including the completion of an original research thesis and a viva oral examination.

Graduate Destinations

• Further information on graduate destinations for this programme is available.
• Career support: From CV workshops through to careers fairs, LSE offers lots of information and support to help you make that all-important step from education into work.