Colleges and Universities Offering Ph.D in Development Studies in South Africa

A Ph.D. in Development Studies is an advanced academic degree that focuses on the interdisciplinary study of social, economic, political and environmental aspects of development in the context of South Africa. This program provides students with the opportunity to contribute to the country's development agenda while gaining valuable insights into the broader field of international development. The following are the key aspects of PhD in Development:
i. Research Focus
ii. Interdisciplinary Approach: Development Studies is an interdisciplinary field, drawing on theories and methodologies from various disciplines
iii. Coursework
iv. Supervision and Mentorship
v. Fieldwork and Data Collection
vi. Dissertation

The following list highlights the possible career opportunities for Ph.D in Development Studies graduates in South Africa:
i. International Development Officer
ii. Social Entrepreneur
iii. Policy Advisor
iv. Impact Evaluation Specialist
v. Development Economist
vi. University Professor
vii. Researcher
viii. Policy Analyst
ix. Development Consultant
x. Program Manager

Institutions Offering Ph.D in Development Studies

•  University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg  
  Entry Requirements:
  - 70% and above average for your Masters
  - Social Sciences background is an advantage
  - NQF of 9 on SAQA ( Only for International Students)
  - Work or Volunteer experience in the Development field an added advantage
  
  Supporting documents required with your application (International & Non-Wits Applicants):
  - CV
  - Certified copies of your ACADEMIC RECORD /STATEMENT OF RESULTS
  - Certified copy of Certificate of Evaluation from the South African Qualifications Authority. Details of how to apply for the certificate are on their website: www.saqa.org.za (Only for International Students.
  - Letter of Motivation as to why you wish to pursue this line of study
  - Sample of Work (may be a marked essay or a chapter from previous research conducted, etc.)
  - A 5-page Research Proposal outlining your research interest. (Masters by Research)
  - In terms of the University rules, an applicant who has not used English in his/her academic education up to this point will be required to supply proof of proficiency in English at the time of application. A British Council test is recommended and they can be contacted at (011) 718 4300 or email IELTS@britishcouncil.org.za
  - Non-refundable Application Fee of R200.00
  
  Supporting documents required with your application (Wits Applicants):
  - CV
  - Letter of Motivation as to why you wish to pursue this line of study
  - A 5-page Research Proposal outlining your research interest. (Masters by Research)
  - Sample of Work (may be a marked essay or a chapter from previous research conducted, etc.)
  
  
  
  Course Duration: 3 years
  
  Mode of Study: Full time and Part time
  
  
•  University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg  
  Admission requirements:
  
  -A Master’s Degree in Development Studies and a final course mark of at least 65% in the particular discipline is required. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of Development Studies, applicants (for the PhD) from other social science Degrees with Development Studies content are encouraged, and will be processed through the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning Committee.
  
  Duration of programme: 3 years
•  University of Pretoria, Pretoria  
  Admission Requirements:
  Relevant master’s degree
  A weighted average of at least 65% for the research component of the master’s degree
  
  Duration of study:
  2 years, full-time.
•  University of the Free State, Bloemfontein  
  

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