De La Salle University

What you'll study

The PhD in Development Studies emphasises independent research leading to a doctoral dissertation that contributes new knowledge on social, economic and political dimensions of development. Students undertake advanced training in research methodologies, theoretical frameworks in development, and specialised topics such as poverty and inequality, rural and urban development, governance and decentralisation, environmental sustainability, social protection, migration, gender and development, and development policy analysis.

• Core research training: advanced quantitative methods, qualitative methods, mixed methods, research design and ethics.
• Theoretical foundations: development theories, political economy of development, comparative development studies.
• Specialist seminars: electives and seminars allowing deep dives into topics such as agrarian change, urbanisation and housing, social policy, livelihoods and labour, climate change and resilience, and conflict and peacebuilding.
• Teaching and academic apprenticeship: opportunities to assist in undergraduate or postgraduate teaching and to present work in seminars and conferences.
• Dissertation: an original, book-length piece of research supervised by faculty, culminating in an oral defence before an examination panel.

Programme structure normally combines a period of coursework and seminars to build methodological and conceptual skills, followed by an extended research phase. Students work closely with a supervisory committee and are expected to participate in departmental research activities and colloquia.

Entry requirements

• A Master’s degree in development studies, public policy, economics, sociology, political science or a closely related field from a recognised institution. Exceptional applicants with substantial professional research experience may be considered.
• A strong academic record and demonstrated research potential, typically evidenced by a thesis, published papers, research reports, or a detailed research proposal.
• Proficiency in English for academic work; applicants whose prior instruction was not in English may need to demonstrate language competence.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees who can attest to the applicant’s research ability and suitability for doctoral study.
• Some applicants may be invited for an interview and will work with potential supervisors to refine a feasible dissertation topic before admission.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Development Studies pursue diverse careers that build on advanced research skills, critical analysis and policy engagement. Typical pathways include:

• Academic careers as university faculty and researchers teaching development studies, public policy, sociology, economics and related subjects.
• Research positions in national research institutes, think tanks and university-affiliated centres conducting applied and policy research.
• Roles in government agencies and local government units focused on policy analysis, programme evaluation, planning and monitoring.
• Professional posts in international development organisations, multilateral agencies, and non-governmental organisations working on poverty reduction, governance, social protection, migration, environment and sustainable development.
• Consultancy and advisory work providing expertise on project design, impact assessment, and evidence-based policy development.

Why study at De La Salle University

• Interdisciplinary research environment: The university hosts active research centres and networks in social sciences and development studies that foster collaboration across disciplines.
• Experienced supervisory faculty: Supervisors include scholars with expertise in Philippine and Southeast Asian development issues, public policy, social protection, urban and rural studies, and environmental governance.
• Location advantages: Based in Metro Manila, the programme provides proximity to government agencies, NGOs, international organisations and field sites for applied research and policy engagement.
• Research support: Access to library collections, data resources, research workshops, and opportunities to present work in seminars and conferences both within and beyond the university.
• Commitment to ethical and impactful research: The programme emphasises rigorous methodology, ethical research practice and research that contributes to inclusive and sustainable development outcomes.