An MPhil or PhD in International Development is a research-based academic degree that focuses on understanding and addressing global development challenges. The program typically requires students to conduct original research and produce a thesis or dissertation that contributes to the field of international development.
The field of international development is broad and encompasses a range of topics, such as poverty reduction, economic growth, social justice, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Students pursuing an MPhil or PhD in International Development may choose to specialize in a specific area of interest or pursue interdisciplinary research that draws on various disciplines, including economics, political science, sociology, anthropology, and environmental studies.
The program typically includes coursework in research methods, development theory, and specific topical areas. Students may also have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and research projects, both domestically and internationally.
Graduates of MPhil or PhD programs in International Development may pursue careers in academia, research institutions, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and international organizations. They may work as researchers, policy analysts, program evaluators, or consultants, among other roles.
Here are some highlights of an MPhil or PhD in International Development program:
Focus on global development challenges | The program is designed to help students understand and address the complex challenges facing developing countries around the world. |
Interdisciplinary approach | The program draws on various disciplines, such as economics, political science, sociology, anthropology, and environmental studies, to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of development issues. |
Research-based | Students are required to conduct original research and produce a thesis or dissertation that contributes to the field of international development. |
Fieldwork opportunities | Many programs offer opportunities for students to participate in fieldwork and research projects both domestically and internationally, providing hands-on experience and practical skills. |
Diverse career options | Graduates of MPhil or PhD programs in International Development can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and international organizations. |
Impactful work | As professionals in the field of international development, graduates have the potential to make a significant positive impact on the lives of people in developing countries. |
1 | The entrance exam requirements for an MPhil or PhD in International Development program may vary by university or program. |
2 | Some programs may require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), while others may require a specific subject test. |
3 | It's best to check with the specific program for their entrance exam requirements. |
Admission to an MPhil or PhD in International Development program is typically competitive, and requirements may vary by program. |
Generally, students are expected to have a strong academic background in a related field, such as economics, political science, sociology, anthropology, or environmental studies. |
Applicants are typically required to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample. |
Some programs may also require an interview. |
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Selection criteria for an MPhil or PhD in International Development program may include academic performance, relevant work or research experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement, writing sample, and entrance exam scores. |
Some programs may also consider additional criteria, such as diversity, leadership potential, and community involvement. |
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The application form for an MPhil or PhD in International Development program can typically be found on the program's website or through the university's graduate admissions office. |
The form may require personal information, academic history, entrance exam scores, and application materials. |
The application process for an MPhil or PhD in International Development program typically involves the following steps:
1. Research programs and their requirements |
2. Prepare application materials, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and writing sample |
3. Take entrance exams, if required |
4. Submit application materials by the program's deadline |
5. Pay the application fee, if required |
6. Wait for the admission decision |
The syllabus for an MPhil or PhD in International Development program can vary by program and university. Generally, the program may include coursework in research methods, development theory, and specific topical areas such as poverty reduction, economic growth, social justice, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Students may also have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and research projects. |
Graduates of an MPhil or PhD in International Development program can pursue a variety of career paths. Some of the popular career opportunities include:
Academia | Teaching and researching at universities and colleges. |
International organizations | Working for organizations such as the World Bank, United Nations, and International Monetary Fund. |
Non-governmental organizations | Working for organizations such as Oxfam, CARE, and Save the Children. |
Government agencies | Working for government agencies such as the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) or the United Kingdom's Department for International Development (DFID). |
Private sector | Working for companies that specialize in international development, such as consulting firms. |
Here are some top colleges for MPhil or PhD in International Development programs:
1 | London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) |
2 | University of Sussex |
3 | University of Manchester |
4 | University of Oxford |
5 | University of Cambridge |
6 | Harvard University |
7 | Yale University |
8 | Stanford University |
9 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
10 | Columbia University |
FAQs About Ph.D. Program
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.