The PhD in Development Studies at the School of Education, Kathmandu University, focuses on exploring the intersections of education and development as social processes. The program encourages rigorous academic engagement, critical inquiry, and research grounded in contemporary social and development theories.
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Find Your Best-FitThe PhD in Development Studies is designed for scholars interested in critically examining the intersections of education and development. The program supports qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research across themes such as education for employment, adult and youth education, education for sustainable development, ethics and integrity, and gender and education.
The program follows a structured pathway that includes coursework, proposal development, qualifying assessments, fieldwork, publication requirements, thesis submission, and viva voce. Full-time students complete research methodology courses in the first semester, develop and defend their research proposal, complete two qualifying papers, conduct fieldwork, publish two peer-reviewed articles, participate in conferences, and complete the final thesis.
Full-time PhD scholars are expected to complete the program in 3 years, while part-time scholars may submit their research after 4 years. The maximum allowed duration is 6 years for full-time students and 8 years for part-time students. Research publications in the relevant field of study are encouraged to strengthen academic rigor.
Program outcomes include the ability to conceptualize research, critically assess scholarly literature, design and evaluate educational programs, demonstrate independent inquiry, and foster lifelong learning.
Eligibility
Qualification
Minimum 17 years of formal education with a Master's or MPhil degree.
Discipline
Open to candidates from any discipline.
Academic Requirement
Minimum CGPA 3.0 out of 4 in the terminal degree (for CGPA-based systems) or minimum first division (for yearly systems).
Admission Criteria
Entrance Requirements:
Applicants are required to undergo the following:
- Written Test
- Presentation of Concept Note
- Interview
The Research Committee evaluates the concept note and overall application. Other assessment components considered include:
- Sample research paper (published or unpublished)
- Quality of research proposal
- Past academic performance
- Relevant work experience, if any
Applicants must submit:
- Completed application form
- Copies of academic credentials
- Curriculum vitae
- Reference letters
- A fully developed research concept note of around 5000 words (in English)
The Research Committee reserves the right to select applicants based on their demonstrated academic capacity and alignment with the program’s research areas.
Job Prospects
Graduates of the PhD in Development Studies can pursue careers in:
- Academic and research institutions
- Policy research organizations
- Government and development agencies
- International and non-governmental organizations
- Educational program design and evaluation roles
- Consultancy in the education, development, and social research sectors
They are equipped to undertake independent research, contribute to scholarly work, and apply advanced analytical skills in diverse professional settings.
Curricular Structure
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Hours |
| EDRM 623 | Quantitative Research Methods | 3 |
| EDUC 600 | Educational Dimensions | 3 |
| EDDE 620 | Development Planning and Evaluation | 3 |
| EDRM 624 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3 |
| EDDE 628 | Research Trends in Development Education | 3 |
| EDRM 652 | Fieldwork in Qualitative Research | 3 |
| EDRM 653 | Fieldwork in Quantitative Research | 3 |
| EDRM 654 | Fieldwork in Mixed Methods Research | 3 |
| EDRM 655 | Data Analysis and Interpretation in Quantitative Research | 3 |
| EDRM 656 | Data Analysis and Interpretation in Qualitative Research | 3 |
| EDRM 657 | Data Analysis and Interpretation in Mixed Methods Research | 3 |
| EDDE 600 | Sociology of Development Education | 3 |
| EDDE 610 | Development Theory and Practice | 3 |
| EDRM 651 | Research Writing & Proposal Development | 3 |
| EDUC 640 | Writing for Publication | 3 |