11 PhD Programs in Development Studies 2024

With a PhD in Development Studies, candidates are prepared for careers in research, policy, and academia within the international development field of work. Many academic institutions provide excellent PhD in Development Studies programs with options for a variety of concentration areas.

In a PhD in Development Studies program, candidates examine the problems of developing countries through an interdisciplinary framework, drawing on anthropology, economics, law, political science, sociology, and gender studies.  Some examples of areas of concentration include development geography, health care, social movements, gender relations, and sustainable development, among many others. Candidates will participate in courses as well as research which results in a dissertation that should provide a significant contribution to the current field of research. A PhD in Development Studies generally takes a minimum of four years to complete.

If a PhD in Development Studies is of interest to you, then scroll through the options below to find the program that matches your needs and interests!