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Development Studies (IDS) at University of Sussex - UCAS

Course options

2024 - 20252025 - 2026
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There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

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.
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. 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.

Modules

Please check our website in January 2025 for the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.

Assessment method

Research project

Entry requirements

You’re normally expected to have a Merit (an average of 60% overall) in a Masters degree. 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.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Please click on the course URL to see up-to-date fee information.

Sponsorship information

Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people. Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26.

Development Studies (IDS) at University of Sussex - UCAS