Program Overview

PhD in Development Studies

The PhD in Development Studies is a research-based program that situates students in a community of diverse scholars who bring together analytical rigour and interdisciplinary perspectives. The program is offered by the Centre of Development Studies and is advertised in multiple departments, including the Department of Politics and International Studies.

Overview

Studying for a PhD at the Centre of Development Studies provides students with the opportunity to work closely with a PhD Supervisor and develop a thesis project through discussion and review of draft materials. The program is designed to help students acquire relevant skills, experience, and knowledge to undertake postdoctoral work or another profession related to development studies.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, candidates will have acquired relevant skills, experience, and knowledge to undertake postdoctoral work (research, teaching, or both) or another profession related to development studies.

Program Structure

• The program is offered on a full-time (3-4 years) or part-time (4-7 years) basis.
• The study mode is research-based, leading to a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
• All students will take a compulsory Research Methods course in the first year.
• Students are also encouraged to attend a wide range of seminars and other events organised by the Centre of Development Studies and departments throughout the University.

Admission Criteria

• The process of working on the thesis will differ from candidate to candidate, depending on their project, preferences, and style of supervision adopted.
• In general, it is expected that the first year (or two years in the case of part-time students) will be devoted to completing the Research Methods modules and developing a detailed and well-thought-through thesis outline and methodology.
• Part-time applicants from outside the UK should note that visa restrictions may apply, and not all sources of funding are available to part-time students.

Key Information

• Duration: 3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time
• Study Mode: Research
• Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
• Department: Centre of Development Studies

Similar Courses

• Politics and International Studies PhD
• Development Studies MPhil
• Latin American Studies PhD

Funding Deadlines

• Course Funding Deadline: December 3, 2025
• Gates Cambridge US round only: October 15, 2025

Application Deadlines

• Applications open: September 3, 2025
• Application deadline: February 26, 2026
• Course starts: October 1, 2026