Key information
- Duration:
- Up to 4 years full time, 8 years part time
- Start date:
- Choose to start in September 2025 or January 2026
- Apply by:
- 1 month before start (UK), 3 months before start (international)
- 1st in the world for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024)
Study with the world leaders in Development Studies and realise your potential to transform the world
The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) transforms the knowledge, action and leadership needed for more equitable and sustainable development globally, through our world-class research, learning and teaching.
As a PhD researcher, you’ll join a thriving research community with more than 70 research staff and 50 postgraduate researchers. You’ll have access to research and teaching opportunities, as well as a substantial series of seminars presented by leading development professionals and practitioners.
Your time at IDS will equip you with the training needed to launch your career in academia, government, civil society or the private sector, and make a real difference in bringing about transformative change. Our PhD graduates are defining and solving some of the world’s most pressing global challenges in their work as:
- ministers in national governments and civil servants
- high-level officials in development organisations such as UNDP and the World Bank
- leaders and thinkers of civil-society and international development organisations such as ActionAid and Christian Aid
- high-profile academics at universities across the world.
What it’s like to study for a PhD at IDS – Jorge Ortiz-Moreno
Areas of study
We welcome submissions from researchers who share our commitment to:
- upholding climate and environmental justice
- reducing extreme inequities
- fostering healthy and fulfilling lives
- nurturing inclusive, democratic and accountable societies.
We’re particularly interested in work that shows originality in addressing topics related to the work of our research fellows based across our ten research clusters.
Find out about our current PhD researchers
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
PhD open evening on campus
Monday 21 October, 5pm - 8.30pm
Entry requirements
Degree requirements | You’re normally expected to have a Merit (an average of 60% overall) in a Masters degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please select your country from the list.
Argentina
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Australia
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Azerbaijan
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bahrain
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bangladesh
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brazil
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brunei
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Canada
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Chile
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Colombia
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ecuador
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Egypt
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ghana
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Indonesia
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Jordan
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kazakhstan
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kenya
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kuwait
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lebanon
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malawi
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Mexico
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nepal
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Oman
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Palestine
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Paraguay
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Peru
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Philippines
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Qatar
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Saudi Arabia
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Korea
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Taiwan
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Thailand
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
United Arab Emirates
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
USA
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Vietnam
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zambia
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zimbabwe
Masters degree requirement | You’re normally expected to have the equivalent of a UK Masters degree, which will mean having completed some academic study beyond your Bachelors degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us
Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant social sciences subject. In exceptional circumstances, you may be considered for the degree if you have a qualification in a different subject area. You must also show evidence of substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. |
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English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
Advanced level (7.0 overall, including at least 6.5 in each component).
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about IELTS
We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.
We do not accept IELTS Online.
Alternative English language qualifications
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
176 overall, including at least 169 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
176 overall, including at least 169 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency
LanguageCert Academic SELT
Advanced level (75 overall, including at least 70 in each component).
LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.
We do not accept the online version. We also do not accept the non-SELT version.
LanguageCert International ESOL SELT
Advanced level (International ESOL SELT C1 with a minimum of 33 in each component)
LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.
Pearson PTE Academic
Advanced level (67 overall, including at least 62 in all four skills)
PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)
We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.
TOEFL (iBT)
Advanced level 95 overall, including at least 22 in Listening, 23 in Reading, 23 in Speaking, 24 in Writing.
TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)
We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70%
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A - C in English language
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- The British Overseas Territories
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
English language support
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course
Visas and immigration
Find out how to apply for a student visa
Admissions information for applicants
Research proposal | You must write an outline research proposal of two to three pages indicating the nature, ambition and primary questions of your research project. Find out how to write a research proposal. |
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If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
How to apply
If you’d like to join us as a research student, there are two main routes:
- browse funded projects in this subject area
- browse our potential supervisors and propose your own research project.
Find out how to apply for a PhD at Sussex
Full-time and part-time study
Choose to work on your research full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. For details about part-time study, contact us at teaching@ids.ac.uk
Our supervisors
Dr Shandana Khan Mohmand
Cluster Leader/ Fellow
Contact
Dr Lars Otto Naess
Cluster Leader/Fellow
Contact
Prof Nicholas Nisbett
Cluster Leader/Fellow
Contact
Dr Patta Scott-Villiers
Research Fellow
Contact
Funding and fees
How can I fund my course?
Funded projects and scholarships
Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals. Don’t miss out on scholarships – check the specific application deadlines for funding opportunities. Note that funded projects aren’t available for all our PhDs.
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SEDarc (ESRC) PhD scholarships for research in the Social Sciences
A number of ESRC-funded standalone PhD and PhD with Masters scholarships across the social sciences.
Applying for USA Federal Student Aid?
If any part of your funding, at any time, is through USA federal Direct Loan funds, you will be registered on a separate version of this degree which does not include the possibility of distance learning which is prohibited under USA federal regulations. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid.
Part-time work
We advertise around 2,500 part-time jobs a year so you can make money and gain work experience. We have a special scheme to employ students on campus, wherever possible.
Find out more about careers and employability
How much does it cost?
Fees for self-funding students
Home students: Fees are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26. Fees will become available once set by United Kingdom Research and Innovation.
Channel Islands and Isle of Man students: Fees are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26. Fees will become available once set by United Kingdom Research and Innovation.
International students: £22,575 per year for full-time students
Home PhD student fees are set at the level recommended by United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) annually, rising in line with inflation. Overseas fees are subject to an annual increase - see details on our tuition fees page
Additional costs
Note about additional costs
Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life.
Fieldwork
Almost all IDS PhD researchers choose to do empirical research and fieldwork for their PhDs. The broad parameters of this research (topic and country) are usually decided by the student and included in the proposal submitted as part of the application to the PhD programme. More detailed assessments of the scope and scale of this research are usually developed in conjunction with supervisors during the first year of the PhD. Fieldwork usually lasts between 8 and 12 months and costs depend on the scope and scale of the activities. For example, participant observation and qualitative interviews undertaken in your home country and in a language with which you are familiar, may not be very expensive, but working in a country where you need visas, in-country ethical approval, and have to employ translators, transcribers, or a team of enumerators for a quantitative survey can mean that costs rapidly escalate. Where you stay, how you travel to your fieldsite, what technology you use to collect and analyse data and how long you stay will all influence the costs. IDS does not fund fieldwork costs. There is a small conference fund and PhD students can apply for up to £450 during their PhDs if they are presenting a paper at a conference.