PhD Degree in Development Economics - About Minimum Qualification, Universities, And Admission 2025-26

About This Course

The PhD programme in heterodox economics or political economy with a strong focus on Africa, jointly supervised by SOAS University of London and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), offers an exceptional academic pathway for students passionate about rethinking economic systems. This unique collaboration allows scholars to explore alternative economic theories, structural challenges, and political dynamics shaping African nations. Upon completing the programme, graduates receive a single co-badged certificate, proudly representing both globally recognised institutions.

At its core, the field aligns closely with development economics, a discipline dedicated to understanding how developing regions can achieve sustainable growth, reduce poverty, and improve overall quality of life. Students dive deep into analysing how resources are distributed across crucial sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and public services. The goal is to identify policies and frameworks that genuinely support social and economic transformation.

In the UK alone, students can choose from over 10 specialised PhD options in development economics. Admission into such programmes usually requires a strong master’s degree in economics or a closely related field, backed by solid quantitative abilities and a clear, well-structured research proposal. Pursuing a PhD in this field means engaging with advanced economic debates, global development concerns, and innovative research approaches.

Graduates often progress into influential roles as economists, policy analysts, and researchers within international organisations, government agencies, NGOs, and top research centres.

Adding to this academic landscape, the PhD Programme at the Centre for Development Studies (CDS)—established in 1975—offers registration under Jawaharlal Nehru University and is also recognised by the University of Kerala. This makes it another respected platform for students aiming to deepen their expertise in development economics and policy research.

Eligibility

A degree from any Indian university recognized by the University or from a recognized foreign educational institution is required. Applicants may also qualify with a Master’s degree or a professional degree considered equivalent to a Master’s degree by the relevant statutory regulatory body.

Candidates must have secured at least 55% marks in the case of the General Category, and 50% marks for OBC (NCL), SC, ST, and Persons with Disabilities (PWD), or an equivalent grade of ‘B’ on the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent grade wherever a different grading system is followed).

Additionally, an equivalent degree from a foreign university is acceptable if the institution is accredited by an Assessment and Accreditation Agency that is approved, recognized, or authorized by an authority established under the law of its home country or any other statutory body responsible for ensuring educational quality and standards.

PhD Degree in Development Economics Admission Process

To apply for this doctorate-level programme, international students should visit the official website of their chosen university and carefully follow all mandatory admission requirements. Alternatively, you can seek guidance from Leverage Edu, where study-abroad experts will support you throughout the application, visa, and accommodation process, along with assisting you in managing your financial needs.

At Leverage Edu, our experts will help you in the following ways:

We assist in selecting the most suitable universities using our AI University Course Finder.

We handle the entire application process for the universities you shortlist.

We provide end-to-end guidance in preparing LORs, SOPs, portfolios, and English proficiency test scorecards (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL).

Once your university application and required documents are submitted, we help you secure accommodation abroad.

You can expect to receive your offer letter within 4–6 weeks, depending on the institution’s processing time.

Our team also supports you with student visa applications, scholarships, and education loan guidance, ensuring a smooth transition to your study destination.

Future Scope

As a postgraduate researcher, you will benefit from a dedicated researcher development programme designed to support your academic and professional growth throughout your PhD journey and beyond. This programme helps you understand and strengthen your evolving researcher identity, equipping you with essential skills for conducting high-quality research and integrating confidently into the wider academic community.

At every stage of your career, you will gain access to relevant, effective, and comprehensive professional development opportunities tailored to your needs as a researcher.

The initiative further enhances your learning experience by offering access to leading expertise in research methods. Throughout the academic year, you can participate in regular talks, workshops, and methods-focused events featuring specialists from within the University and external institutions.

Additionally, undertaking a placement provides an excellent opportunity for knowledge exchange, allowing you to build valuable professional networks and strengthen your career prospects.

The University also offers Postgraduate Researcher Exchange Programmes with selected partner institutions worldwide. These exchanges enable you to visit another institution, access specialised research resources, experience a different academic culture, and establish new professional connections.

Successful applicants receive partial funding to cover travel, accommodation, subsistence, educational materials, and other research-related expenses for visits ranging from two weeks to three months. This ensures that you gain rich, global research exposure while advancing your academic development.