Study Development Studies (IDS) PhD at University of Sussex in the UK, School of Law, Politics and Sociology
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Development Studies (IDS) PhD

UK

23

What will I learn?

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.

Which department am I in?

School of Law, Politics and Sociology

Study options

Full Time (4 Years)

Tuition fees
£23,500.00 (US$ 30,349) per year
Books, course materials and other costs (average) - £10 to £15 per week

This is a fixed fee

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Application deadline

12/10/2026

Start date

January 2027

Venue

University of Sussex

Sussex House, Falmer,

Brighton,

East Sussex,

BN1 9RH, Southern England, United Kingdom

Full Time (4 Years)

Tuition fees
Information not available

Please check with institution

Application deadline

12/10/2026

Start date

September 2027

Venue

University of Sussex

Sussex House, Falmer,

Brighton,

East Sussex,

BN1 9RH, Southern England, United Kingdom

Entry requirements

For international students

Degree requirements - Youre normally expected to have a Merit (an average of 60percentage overall) in a Masters degree. 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.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

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About University of Sussex

For over 60 years Sussex’s teaching, research and culture have stimulated and challenged, driving positive change at home and around the world.

  • Happiest university in the UK (Unifresher Awards 2027)
  • 1st in the world for Development Studies (QS Rankings 2026)
  • 15th in the UK for Employment Outcomes (QS Rankings 2027)
  • Beautiful campus with a welcoming global community

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