DPhil by Research

DPhil by Research

IDS offers a programme of supervised study leading to a DPhil in topics closely related to its current priorities. Applicants are assessed both on their academic credentials and on the relevance of their proposed research to the work of one or more IDS Fellows. Close working relationships are fostered between DPhil students, their supervisors and Fellows working in the same area, in order to enhance the quality of DPhil education.

The IDS research agenda encompasses many important development challenges. The research programmes are organised in five multidisciplinary teams:

• Globalisation: focusing on the dynamics of the global environment in which the private sector investment and growth necessary for poverty reduction are situated.
• Governance: focusing on the politics of state engagement and public action in developing countries.
• Knowledge, Technology and Society: exploring how science and technology can improve the livelihoods and well-being of poor people, and promote greater social justice
• Participation, Power and Social Change: looking at how and where participation by citizens can make a difference to questions of social justice and development
• Vulnerability and Poverty Reduction: improving the understanding of vulnerability, and designing effective means of addressing it, as a central component of poverty reduction.

Application Procedure

We consider applications throughout the year although the official academic year begins in October. We strongly encourage DPhil students to align their studies to this academic calendar.

Entry Requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a masters degree or equivalent and must either already possess appropriate research skills or attend a research skills course during the first academic year. The minimum acceptable level of English language competence is grade 7 overall, and no less than 6.5 in each section of the IELTS test (or equivalent).

Given our aim of integrating DPhil research with ongoing IDS work, prospective applicants are strongly advised to make contact with an IDS fellow specialising in their chosen field well before submitting a formal application.

For the formal application, a 4-5 page research proposal should be submitted indicating what you wish to investigate, how you intend to conduct the research and any contacts you have had with IDS Fellows. It would also be advantageous to include an article or writing sample demonstrating your ability to undertake research and write academic papers.

IDS is unable to accept applications for distance learning. We believe it is in the best interests of both DPhil students and the Institute that the majority of the study period is spent at IDS. This offers the opportunity for ongoing interaction with other IDS members and students. Presence here is vital at the early stage when the research proposal is prepared and then, after fieldwork, at the stage of writing up the research findings. It is expected that the dissertation will be completed within 3 years (with a maximum registration of 4 years)