PhD Programme in Interdisciplinary Global Development

Program Overview

The Interdisciplinary Global Development PhD Programme at the University of York is a three-year (or six-year part-time) program that equips students with the knowledge and skills to address global development challenges through interdisciplinary research. The program includes a period of fieldwork and is taught by a team of internationally renowned experts. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, policy, or practice in the field of global development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Interdisciplinary Global Development PhD Programme is a three-year (or six years for part-time students) program that allows students to explore a global challenge in substantial detail. The program is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to address major global development challenges through interdisciplinary research.

Objectives:

• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the key issues and challenges in global development.
• To develop students' research skills and knowledge in a chosen area of global development.
• To prepare students for careers in research, policy, or practice in the field of global development.

Description:

The program is interdisciplinary, meaning that students will be able to draw on the expertise of supervisors from different departments at the University of York. This will allow students to develop a deep understanding of the complex issues involved in global development. The program is also research-led, meaning that students will be expected to conduct original research as part of their thesis. This will give students the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the field of global development. The program is taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, and workshops. Students will also have the opportunity to undertake a period of fieldwork in the second year.

Outline:

Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics related to global development, including:

• Poverty and inequality
• Health and well-being
• Education
• Environment
• Conflict and peacebuilding
• Governance and development

Structure:

The program is divided into three years. In the first year, students will take two modules: 'Political Research and Analysis' and 'Personal and Professional Skills'. They may also take additional training in quantitative and qualitative methods. In the second year, students will undertake a period of fieldwork. They will also continue to take modules and work on their thesis. In the third year, students will complete their thesis and take a viva voce examination.

Course Schedule:

The course schedule is available on the IGDC website.

Individual Modules:

• Political Research and Analysis: This module will introduce students to the key concepts and theories of political science and research methods.
• Personal and Professional Skills: This module will help students develop the skills they need to succeed in their PhD studies, such as time management, presentation skills, and academic writing.
• Additional Training: Students may take additional training in quantitative and qualitative methods, depending on their project and research experience.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Thesis
• Viva voce examination
• Coursework

Assessment Criteria:

• Originality and relevance of research
• Depth of understanding of the subject matter
• Quality of research methods
• Clarity and coherence of writing
• Effective communication of ideas

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Supervision

Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of internationally renowned experts in global development.

Unique Approaches:

• The program is interdisciplinary, meaning that students will be able to draw on the expertise of supervisors from different departments at the University of York.
• The program is research-led, meaning that students will be expected to conduct original research as part of their thesis.
• The program includes a period of fieldwork, which will give students the opportunity to gain practical experience in global development.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Academic research
• Policy analysis
• Development practice
• Non-governmental organizations
• International organizations

Opportunities:

The program provides students with a strong foundation for a career in global development. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in a variety of sectors, including:

• Academia
• Government
• NGOs
• International organizations

Outcomes:

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to make a significant contribution to the field of global development. They have the knowledge, skills, and experience to address complex global challenges.

Other:

• The program is open to students from all backgrounds and disciplines.
• The program is competitive, and only a limited number of places are available each year.
• Applicants are encouraged to discuss their research proposal with one or more potential supervisors before making an online application.
• The program is fully funded for UK and EU students.
• To apply for the program, please visit the University of York's online application portal.