Development Studies - Research, MPhil/PhD

Our Natural Resource Institute (NRI) in Medway provides an ideal environment for innovative and original research in development studies.

Research in development studies gives you the opportunity to investigate key global social-scientific areas, such as sustainable development, economic growth and poverty reduction, primarily in developing countries.

The NRI has a rapidly growing programme of research at MPhil and PhD level on interdisciplinary topics relating to development in the South and in Europe. The Livelihoods and Institutions Department works on themes related to natural resources, environment and development, while the Food and Markets Department works on economics-based issues of development.

The institute provides a vibrant research environment in development studies. It hosts students from around the world with backgrounds in research, government and non-governmental organisations. We also encourage students to network with peers from other universities in the UK.

Teaching

This course allows you to follow a structured route into scientific research. Research students are provided with a supervisory team to guide you through your research project. Your supervisors are usually research staff from within the faculty, although we may appoint from another department or from outside the university if suitable.

Assessment

The MPhil/PhD Programme is assessed by a written thesis and a viva including an external examiner, an internal examiner and a panel chair. For PhD study, students usually register for MPhil and undergo an internal transfer review after one year of research to determine their readiness for full PhD registration.

Careers and placements

What sort of careers do graduates pursue?

Graduates from the MPhil and PhD programmes can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in industry, government and academia.

Do you provide employability services

We have a team dedicated to enhancing student employment outcomes. Our Employer Partnerships Manager develops relationships with companies to provide employment opportunities.