Overview

About the programme

The PhD in Development Studies at Swansea University represents a highly respected qualification which can present a pathway to a career in academia, or widen your scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector.

Our dynamic research environment is driven by committed staff who are all active researchers with a diverse range of interests and expertise through our Research Groups:

Global Drug Policy Observatory (GDPO)
International Studies, Conflict and Security (ISCAS)
Political Analysis and Government (PAG)

Programme Structure

Research areas include:

Human rights and International development
International security and strategic studies
Conflict
Politics and International development
Transitional justice and international crimes
International development policy

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months
Part-time
- 72 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-07-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2026-10-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-04-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-02-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-07-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Swansea, United Kingdom

Disciplines

International Development View 25 other PhDs in International Development in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

88

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants for PhD must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level and a master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’. Alternatively, applicants with a UK first class honours degree (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) not holding a master’s degree, will be considered on an individual basis.
As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.
As standard, two references are required before we can progress applications to the College/School research programme Admissions Tutor for consideration.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

19500 GBP / year

≈ 19500 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

5156 GBP / year

≈ 5156 GBP / year

Living costs

Swansea

United Kingdom

727 - 1379 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Development Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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