Maastricht University

Overview

The Innovation, Economics and Governance for Development PhD programme at Maastricht University is hosted by UNU-MERIT in Maastricht. This programme provides structured training in research methodologies and specialized knowledge, enabling candidates to develop and defend a doctoral dissertation aligned with the UNU-MERIT research agenda.

• Degree awarded: PhD (doctoral degree) by Maastricht University
• Host institute: UNU-MERIT (Maastricht University)
• Programme length: Typically 48 months, subject to individual research progress
• Credits: Includes structured PhD training components; dissertation completion is essential for the degree
• Delivery format: Full-time research with a combination of structured courses and research training
• Language of instruction: English
• English test (if required): IELTS or TOEFL iBT
• Application materials: Motivation letter, research proposal, CV, recommendation letter, and supporting documents

What You'll Study

The programme integrates structured coursework with independent doctoral research, focusing on enhancing research skills in economics, innovation, and governance, while assisting candidates in crafting a robust dissertation.

Coursework themes include:

• The economics of innovation: Examining technological change, knowledge economics, structural change, and economic complexity.
• Public policy and governance of innovation: Focusing on governance, migration, labor economics, social protection, and issues of poverty and inequality.
• Societal transformations: Exploring sustainable innovation, entrepreneurship, system transitions, and innovation for underserved communities.

Doctoral research component:

• Development of a comprehensive PhD research proposal and design.
• Continuous supervision and research training throughout the programme.
• Completion of an original research dissertation, culminating in a successful defense.

Entry Requirements

Applicants are required to hold a relevant master’s degree (or an equivalent qualification) that provides a solid foundation for doctoral-level research in economics, innovation studies, governance, development studies, or a closely related field. Specific GRE, GMAT, or GPA grading score requirements for this programme have not been established.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and international organizations. With a strong focus on innovation and governance, they are prepared to contribute to policy-making and development initiatives that address global challenges.