International Development
Entry requirements
Excellent undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Typically the latter will be a taught masters degree, including a dissertation.
Besides formal qualifications, a key factor determining whether the Department decides to accept a candidate for either degree is the quality of their research proposal and its relevance to our own interests. Successful completion of a research thesis demands a high level of self-discipline, motivation and commitment to the subject of research. . If you have relevant professional experience or qualifications, these will also be taken into account when considering your application.
View our course page for more information and to contact our IDD PGR Lead.
Months of entry
September
Course content
Join our International Development Department's vibrant research community at Birmingham. Pursue your PhD, conduct impactful research, and develop skills under the guidance of academic supervisors within an active research environment focused on real-world impact. Explore themes such as governance, sustainability, and inequality, and be ready to impact society through research.
Shape your future by developping cutting-edge research skills, critical thinking, and expertise in development studies, preparing you for influential roles in academia, policy-making, and global development organisations.
View our course page for more information
What makes this course different?
Our PhD in International Development offers you the opportunity engage in original research guided by leading academics supporting you with personalised training within a top-ranked, research-focused environment and vibrant research community. With a focus on real-world impact, you'll explore diverse key themes such as governance, sustainability, and conflict resolution. Benefit from tailored career support combined with the programme learning outcomes to advance your expertise but also develop the skills for influential roles in academia and beyond.
- Conduct original research with under the guide of leading academics in a top-ranked, impactful research environment.
- Be part of a vibrant research and practitioner community, participating in events like the PGR Colloquium, seminars and speaker series.
- Benefit from personalised research training and skills development tailored to your academic and career goals.
- Access extensive career advice, workshops, and networking opportunities to advance in academia and beyond.
Information for international students
You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways:
- by holding an English language qualification to the right level - IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band
- by taking and successfully completing one of our English courses for international students
Fees and funding
The University of Birmingham offers a range of scholarship options available each year for doctoral researchers who meet the eligibility criteria and can demonstrate an excellent academic track record. For further information, please explore our scholarships and funding database.
Scholarships are highly competitive, with limited funding available. It is essential that all applications for scholarships are carefully prepared, and include all necessary documentation. Incomplete applications cannot be considered for scholarship funding.
View our course page for more information
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- PhD
- part time72 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- Distance learningis available for this qualification
- full time36 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- Distance learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Enquiries
- s.a.m.ali@bham.ac.uk