CENTRE FOR CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY STUDIES
PHD IN CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
- INTRODUCTION
Climate change is a complex phenomenon that poses significant uncertainties and challenges to human society. Its impacts are multifaceted, affecting various aspects of the environment, economy, and social fabric. In the context of Africa, the continent's unique socio-economic and ecological characteristics make it particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Increasing temperatures disrupt ecosystems, affect agricultural productivity, and exacerbate water scarcity, leading to food insecurity and economic instability. Erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts pose challenges for water availability, crop yields, and livestock health, further impacting livelihoods and exacerbating poverty. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities and ecosystems, increasing the risk of flooding, erosion, and saltwater intrusion. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and heatwaves, become more frequent and intense, posing risks to infrastructure, health, and well-being.
Addressing these complex challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of climate change and its impacts. The interconnected nature of climate change brings uncertainties that make it difficult to predict specific outcomes with absolute certainty. Climate models provide projections, but the precise magnitude and timing of impacts vary, adding layers of complexity to adaptation and mitigation efforts. Therefore, it becomes crucial to cultivate a new generation of experts who can navigate the complexities and uncertainties of climate change. These experts need to possess a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating knowledge from environmental science, social sciences, economics, policy, and more. By comprehending the interconnectedness of climate change and its implications across sectors, they can develop innovative solutions that address the specific challenges faced by African communities.
Furthermore, these experts must be equipped with skills in scenario planning, risk assessment, and decision-making under uncertainty. They need to understand the social, cultural, and economic contexts of African societies, acknowledging the diverse needs and vulnerabilities of different regions and communities. This holistic approach allows for the development of context-specific and resilient strategies that promote sustainable development and adaptive capacity.
- RATIONALE
A PhD programme in Climate Change and Sustainable Development at the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies (C3SS) is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a platform for in-depth research, enabling scholars to investigate the intricate dynamics of climate change and its repercussions on social, economic, and environmental systems. Through rigorous scientific inquiry, this programme will generate cutting-edge knowledge, theories, and methodologies specific to the African context, filling critical knowledge gaps and informing evidence-based policies and strategies. Secondly, the interdisciplinary nature of the programme equips students with a broad range of skills and perspectives, essential for addressing the complexity of climate change and sustainable development challenges. By integrating disciplines such as natural sciences, social sciences, economics, and policy, the programme fosters a holistic approach, enabling students to comprehend the interconnections between climate change, ecosystems, society, and governance. This comprehensive understanding is vital for crafting effective and contextually appropriate strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts. Furthermore, the programme recognizes the importance of building local capacity and empowering African scholars to take the lead in climate change research and policy development. By nurturing homegrown expertise, the PhD programme contributes to the development of a strong, indigenous knowledge base, ensuring that solutions and interventions are contextually relevant and culturally sensitive.
- MISSION AND OBJECTIVES
In line with the University of Ghana's mission of “creating an enabling environment that makes University of Ghana increasingly relevant to national and global development through cutting-edge research as well as high quality teaching and learning”, the C3SS aims to foster teaching, learning, and research excellence in sustainable development and climate change, not only within our institution but also across the African continent. At the C3SS, we firmly believe that by equipping our students with a comprehensive, multidisciplinary understanding of sustainability problems, we can empower them to contribute effectively to climate change adaptation and sustainable development in Ghana and beyond.
Based on the above mission, the PhD programme in Climate Change and Sustainable Development at the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies (C3SS) aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
- Develop Expertise in Climate Change and Sustainability Research: The programme seeks to cultivate a cadre of highly skilled researchers who can conduct cutting-edge research on climate change and its impacts. By providing rigorous training in research methodologies, data analysis, and scientific inquiry, the programme aims to produce graduates who can contribute to the body of knowledge on climate change and sustainable development in Africa and globally.
- Foster Interdisciplinary Approaches: The programme recognizes the complex and interconnected nature of climate change and sustainable development challenges. To address these challenges effectively, it promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and integration of diverse fields of study. By encouraging students to draw from multiple disciplines such as environmental science, social sciences, economics, business, health and policy, the programme aims to equip graduates with a holistic understanding of sustainability problems and the ability to develop comprehensive transformational solutions.
- Enhance Policy and Decision-Making Skills: Understanding the science of climate change is crucial, but translating that knowledge into effective policies and strategies is equally important. The programme aims to equip students with the skills necessary to engage in policy analysis, develop evidence-based recommendations, and effectively communicate climate change-related information to policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. By fostering policy and decision-making skills, graduates can contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable and climate-resilient policies at local, national, and regional levels.
- Promote Regional Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange: The programme aims to create a vibrant intellectual community that extends beyond the boundaries of the University of Ghana. By attracting students from across the African continent, the programme facilitates regional collaboration and knowledge exchange. Through shared experiences, diverse perspectives, and collaborative research projects, students can develop a deep understanding of regional climate change challenges and contribute to cross-border solutions. This objective supports the broader vision of the C3SS to serve as a focal point for teaching, learning, and research excellence in sustainable development and climate change across Africa.
The PhD programme in Climate Change and Sustainable Development at the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies (C3SS) is expected to yield significant outcomes. Graduates will contribute advanced research outputs, expanding the body of knowledge on climate change and sustainable development. They will possess interdisciplinary skills to develop innovative solutions to complex sustainability problems. Furthermore, they will have the ability to inform policy and decision-making processes through evidence-based recommendations. Graduates will actively engage in regional collaborations, fostering networks and knowledge exchange across the African continent. Finally, equipped with leadership skills, they will drive impactful change, shaping policies and promoting sustainable development and resilience.
- CAREER PATHS
Graduates of the PhD programme in Climate Change and Sustainable Development can pursue a wide range of rewarding career paths. Potential career options include:
a). Academic and Research Institutions: Graduates can pursue careers as researchers, professors, or postdoctoral fellows in universities, research institutions, and think tanks. They can contribute to cutting-edge research, mentor future scholars, and engage in interdisciplinary collaborations to advance knowledge on climate change and sustainable development.
b). Environmental and Sustainability Consultancies: Graduates can work for consulting firms that specialize in environmental and sustainability issues. They can provide expert advice, conduct assessments, and develop strategies to help organizations, businesses, and governments navigate the challenges of climate change and promote sustainable practices.
c). Government and International Organizations: Graduates can find employment in government agencies and international organizations dedicated to climate change and sustainable development. They can work on policy development, implementation, and evaluation, contributing to national and global efforts in climate change adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development planning.
d). Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Graduates can join NGOs that focus on environmental and sustainability issues. They can engage in advocacy, community-based initiatives, and project management to address climate change impacts, promote sustainable practices, and advocate for social and environmental justice.
e). Corporate Sustainability Roles: Graduates can work in the private sector, particularly in corporate sustainability departments. They can contribute to developing and implementing sustainability strategies, managing environmental risks, and integrating climate change considerations into business operations, supply chains, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
f). Policy and Planning Positions: Graduates can pursue careers in policy and planning, working for government agencies, research institutes, or international organizations. They can influence policy development, conduct research to inform decision-making, and contribute to the design and implementation of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies at local, national, and global levels.
g). Climate Change and Development Consulting: Graduates can establish their own consulting firms or work independently as consultants, providing specialized expertise on climate change and sustainable development. They can support organizations, communities, and governments in developing and implementing climate change adaptation and mitigation projects, conducting impact assessments, and designing sustainable development plans.
h). Education and Capacity Building: Graduates can engage in education and capacity-building initiatives, working as trainers, educators, or facilitators. They can develop and deliver courses, workshops, and training programmes on climate change, sustainability, and resilience, empowering individuals and communities to address climate change challenges.
- ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
A good master’s degree or a first-class undergraduate in Physical, Biological Sciences, Agricultural Science, Business Administration, Social Science, Development Studies, Forestry or any related fields of study is required for admission. Applicants may be required to pass an entrance examination or attend a selection interview or both. Applicants are typically expected to have a strong academic record and research background.
Applicants with very good first degree from the University of Ghana or any recognized/accredited University may apply for a PhD programme. Such applicants, when admitted, shall be required to take first year courses of the Masters’ (Level 600) programme of their departments. They shall be required to pass all examinations in the courses. On successful completion of the Level 600 courses and depending on their performance, they would then progress into the four-year Ph.D. programme.
- DURATION OF PROGRAMME
The duration of completion of the Doctor of Philosophy degree shall normally be four years for full-time students and six years for part-time students. Full-time students shall be entitled to two years of extension, while part-time students shall have one year of extension.
The minimum and maximum duration for the PhD programme shall conform to the University requirements as specified in the graduate students’ handbook. At the end of the first year of study, the candidate will be expected to take a comprehensive examination comprising oral examination and research proposal presentation. The candidate will be expected to pass this examination before proceeding to the research stage.
Part-time students
In addition to the satisfactory completion of the course work, the candidate will be required to give (1) a formal oral examination in the form of a presentation on the research thesis. The presentation shall cover the results to date of the research. This oral examination will be conducted after the candidate has submitted a written thesis which has been accepted, examined and the candidate has received a pass grade. In addition, the candidate will be expected to have submitted at least one (1) full paper originating from the research to a conference and attended and presented a paper at a conference prior to the oral examination.
- COMPONENTS OF THE PROGRAMME
YEAR ONE: SEMESTER ONE
Core Courses
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
|
CCSD 701 |
Advanced Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
*FASC 701 |
Science and Society |
3 |
0 |
3 |
|
|
Sub –Total |
5 |
3 |
6 |
Elective Courses
Select one from any of the two options: Climate Change Adaptation/Sustainability Studies
|
Option 1 |
Climate Change Adaptation |
|||
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
|
CCSD 703 |
Community-Based Adaptation: Theory and Practice |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
CCSD 705 |
Climate Change Science and Modelling |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Option 2 |
Sustainability Studies |
|||
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
|
CCSD 707 |
Sustainable Bioproduction and Ecosystems Management |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
CCSD 709 |
Sustainable Energy and Green Economy |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Sub-Total for Elective Courses |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
Total for Year One Semester One |
7 |
6 |
9 |
|
(T)= Teaching hours (P) = Practical hours (C) = Credit *College required courses
YEAR ONE: SEMESTER TWO
Core Courses
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
|
CCSD 702 |
Climate-Resilient Sustainable Development |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
FASC 702* |
Advanced Quantitative Research Methods |
3 |
0 |
3 |
|
|
Sub –Total |
5 |
3 |
6 |
Elective Courses
Select one from any of the two options: Climate Change Adaptation/Sustainability Studies
|
Option 1 |
Climate Change Adaptation |
|||
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
|
CCSD 704 |
Climate Change and Water Resources Management |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
CCSD 706 |
Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Option 2 |
Sustainability Studies |
|||
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
|
CCSD 708 |
Environmental Economics and Sustainability |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
CCSD 712 |
Climate Change Financing |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Sub-Total for Elective Courses |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Total for Year One Semester One |
7 |
6 |
9 |
(T)= Teaching hours (P) = Practical hours (C) = Credit *College required courses
TOTAL CREDITS FOR YEAR ONE: 18 CREDITS
YEAR TWO-FOUR
|
YEAR 2 |
|
|||||
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
||
|
CCSD 710 |
Seminar 1 (PhD Thesis Proposal)-1st Semester of Year 2 |
0 |
9 |
3 |
||
|
CCSD 720 |
Seminar 2 (Report on Experiential Learning)- 2nd Semester of Year 2 |
0 |
9 |
3 |
||
|
|
Total for Year 2 |
0 |
18 |
6 |
||
|
YEAR 3 |
|
|||||
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
||
|
CCSD 730 |
Seminar 3 (Progress report on PhD Thesis Research) |
0 |
9 |
3 |
||
|
|
Total for Year 3 |
0 |
9 |
3 |
|
|
|
YEAR 4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
T |
P |
C |
|
|
|
CCSD 740 |
Seminar 4 (PhD Final Thesis Findings) |
0 |
9 |
3 |
|
|
|
CCSD 700 |
Thesis |
0 |
45 |
45 |
|
|
|
|
Total for Year Four |
0 |
54 |
48 |
|
|
(T)= Teaching hours (P) = Practical hours (C) = Credit *College required courses
- GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
To graduate, students must satisfactorily complete and pass all the required courses, experiential learning, and a thesis. In all cases, the University of Ghana Regulations in the Handbook for Graduate Studies shall apply. Students must obtain a total of 75-81 credits as described under the structure of the study programme.
Course Work 18 – 24 credits
PhD Seminars 12 credits
Thesis 45 credits
Total credits 75 – 81 credits
A course requirement for credit may be waived where, in the opinion of the Admissions Board, the candidate has previously completed satisfactorily an analogous course. In such a situation, the candidate shall be required to only audit the relevant course on offer at the PhD level in the University of Ghana, but without compromising the overall minimum credits required for graduation.
- Course Work Component
The Climate Change and Sustainable Development Doctoral programme shall organize comprehensive examinations for each doctoral student after taking course work based on the following guidelines:
-
- The comprehensive examination should be in two parts, comprising both written and oral assessments. Both the written and oral assessments should be taken within two weeks.
- The format and content of the written assessment will be decided by the C3SS. Only those who have taught the student should set the written examination questions.
- The Oral assessment should basically draw on issues in the written examination. This means that the written paper should precede the oral assessment.
- There would be a panel of three or four members constituted by the C3SS for the oral assessment part of the comprehensive examination.
- The panel for the oral examination should consist of at least one of the student’s potential supervisors and at least one of the student’s examiners in the written paper and should be chaired by the Director of C3SS or his/her representative.
- The results of the comprehensive examination should be determined by finding the average of scores obtained in both the written and oral examinations, and the final determination should be PASS or FAIL.
- The results of the comprehensive examination should be officially declared and communicated to the student within one week after the oral examination.
- Research Component
A significant portion of the PhD programme in Climate Change and Sustainable Development is dedicated to the thesis research component, with a total of forty-eight (48) credit units allocated for this purpose. The thesis serves as a comprehensive platform for candidates to demonstrate their ability to conceive and execute independent research in their chosen field of study. It provides an opportunity for candidates to delve deeply into a specific topic, employing rigorous research methodologies and analytical frameworks to generate new knowledge and insights.
Thesis
A PhD thesis prepared and presented for examination must bring out the ability of the candidate to conceive of and conduct independent research and skills in organizing and presenting findings on a topic in a specific field. The thesis shall be assigned forty-five (45) credit units.
The thesis format must comply with the guidelines for preparing graduate thesis. Article-style thesis will also be accepted for doctoral candidates whose completed thesis will consist of a number of journal-style manuscripts or articles. This must be an option approved for a Department or Programme by the School of Graduate Studies. Such thesis must show a unification of a sequence of articles of publishable quality around a theme, which is the student’s original work. Article-style thesis must be based upon research carried out by the student while at University of Ghana. The student must be the first author or equivalent for each article included in the thesis.
(c). Seminars Component
During the research period of their candidature, candidates in the PhD programme in Climate Change and Sustainable Development will be required to actively participate in seminars as part of their academic progress. These seminars serve as valuable platforms for knowledge sharing, critical discussions, and the presentation of research findings. Each year, candidates will attend seminars organized by the programme, where they will have the opportunity to engage with fellow students, faculty members, and experts in the field. Additionally, candidates will be required to present their own seminars annually, showcasing the progress and outcomes of their research. These seminars will be evaluated on a "pass" or "fail" basis, reflecting the candidates' ability to effectively communicate their research and engage in scholarly discourse. Successful completion of each seminar will earn candidates three credit units, contributing to the overall credit requirements of the PhD programme. The seminar component plays a crucial role in fostering intellectual growth, enhancing presentation skills, and promoting a vibrant academic community within the programme.
d). Summary of Programme Structure
A total of 75-81 credit units would be required for graduation. The breakdown is as follows:
|
Structure of Full-time Programme |
Structure of Part-time Programme |
|
Year 1 Semester 1 courses (9-12 credits) Semester 2 courses (9-12 credits) Year 2 Seminar 1 (3 credits) Seminar 2 (3 credits) Thesis Year 3 Seminar 3 (3 credits) Thesis Year 4 Seminar 4 (3 credits) Thesis (45 credits) Total Credits: 75-81 |
Years 1 and 2 Course work (18-24 credits) Year 3: Seminar 1 (3 credits) Thesis Year 4: Seminar 2 (3 credits) Thesis Year 5: Seminar 3 (3 credits) Thesis Year 6: Seminar 4 (3 credits) Thesis (45 credits)
Total Credits: 75-81 |
- COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
CCSD 701: ADVANCED QUALITATIVE AND MIXED METHODS RESEARCH
COURSE OUTLINE
The overall aim of the course is to build on students’ previous knowledge and experiences in qualitative research by introducing them to more advanced theories, concepts, and approaches. It will prepare students to integrate qualitative and quantitative methods, designs and results for scientific research and thesis writing. The course will provide opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in working with different approaches to collecting and interpreting qualitative data. Course content will cover topics such Formulating research questions, Discourse analysis, Ontological thinking, Critical discourse analysis, Qualitative interviewing etc.
CCSD 703: COMMUNITY-BASED ADAPTATION: THEORY AND PRACTICE
COURSE OUTLINE
The aim of the course is to equip students with the relevant knowledge, theoretical grounding, experiential insights, skills and dispositions to lead or engage in community-based adaptation processes. The course explores key concepts in the theory and practice of community-based adaptation planning. Course content will cover topics such as Theories and approaches to community-based adaptation, Vulnerability and resilience assessment, Nature-based adaptation, Community-needs assessment.
CCSD 705: CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENCE AND MODELLING
COURSE OUTLINE
The aim of the course is to give a solid foundation in climate science, natural climate variations, and climate models. Course content will cover topics such as Drivers of climate variability, Global and Regional Climate Modelling, Formulation and evaluation of models, Global carbon cycle and the modelling of other greenhouse gases, Climate Targets, carbon budgets and the Paris Agreement, Sensitivity analysis, Climate projections and how climate scenarios are developed, Current practices in climate modelling, Modelling tools, simulation processes and climate data analysis (time series and uncertainties).
CCSD 707 SUSTAINABLE BIOPRODUCTION AND ECOSYSTEMS MANAGEMENT
COURSE OUTLINE
This course aims to provide students with a deeper scientific understanding and appreciation of the global consequences of bio production, ecosystem changes and drivers of these changes including international trade in ecosystem services. The national profile on biodiversity and ecosystems in Ghana will be the main highlight of this course. Course content will cover topics such as Ecosystem accounting, Mainstreaming biodiversity and ecosystem services into policy and decision-making, international science assessments (including IPCC, MA, IPBES), Human dimensions of ecosystem management, Bio-energy production and ecosystem services.
CCSD 709 SUSTAINABLE ENERGY AND GREEN ECONOMY
COURSE OUTLINE
The course aims to produce graduates with advanced knowledge and skills in renewable energy use, management and green economy. It will be providing high-level teaching and research, in an interdisciplinary approach, to deliver a set of skills and competencies in sustainable energy systems and green economy. Course content will cover topics such as Economic principles guiding energy-related behaviour of both producers and consumers for the realization of a green economy, Sources of energy, Interactions on the energy market and energy price determination, Low carbon management, Renewable/sustainable energy and energy consumption management.
CCSD 702 CLIMATE-RESILIENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
COURSE OUTLINE
The aim of this course is to examine the variety of existing and new approaches, concepts, and development trajectories that lead to sustainable development. Course content will cover topics such as Adaptive cycle and panarchy, Co-management and adaptive co-management, Disaster risk reduction, Scenarios planning, Loss and damage, low-carbon development and climate risk assessments.
FASC 702 ADVANCED QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS
COURSE OUTLINE
The objective of the course is to provide a step up for students who need to add up to their knowledge in quantitative methods of research techniques and analyses. Course content will cover topics such as Factorial designs confounding and fractional factorial designs, Split plot designs, incomplete block designs and Analysis of covariance, Regression models: Logistic, linear, polynomial, principal component, Bayesian linear.
CCSD 704 CLIMATE CHANGE AND WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
COURSE OUTLINE
The objective of the course is to develop the capacity and competencies of students to appreciate the complexities of hydro-climatic extremities and its implications for water resources management within the broader context of sustainable development. Course content will cover topics such as Watershed Conservation and Management, Environmental Impact Assessment of Water Resources Development, Water Quality, Irrigation Management, Surface and Ground Water Hydrology and Urban Water Resources Management.
CCSD 706 CLIMATE CHANGE, AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY
COURSE OUTLINE
The objective of the course is to highlight and examine the nexus between global climate change, agriculture and food security (CCAFS) with emphasis on Africa and to provide students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the concept of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), including the principles, practice and approaches guiding CSA. Course content will cover topics such as Convergence of sciences, Agri-biological responses to climate change, Concept of food security, Alternative livelihoods frameworks, Food security and livelihoods perspectives, Agri-food systems and policy frameworks in Africa.
CCSD 708 ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS AND SUSTAINABILITY
COURSE OUTLINE
This course aims at providing students with the advanced knowledge in the application of environmental economic tools for sustainable development. Course content will cover topics such as Environmental externalities and sustainable development, Environmental valuation tools, Market failure, Pollution control, Economic regulatory instruments and incentives, Tools for measuring sustainability (Life Cycle Approach, Energy Flows, Material Flow Analysis).
CCSD 712 CLIMATE CHANGE FINANCING
COURSE OUTLINE
The objective of the course is to provide students with an understanding of the existing climate financing mechanisms and sources and how to access them for mitigation and adaptation actions. Course content will cover topics such as Climate change finance architecture, Funding mechanisms and sources, Major streams of international climate finance, Tracking and verification systems, Climate investment opportunities.
CCSD 710 SEMINAR 1: RESEARCH PROPOSAL SEMINAR
All students must formally defend their research proposal to ensure that the proposed work is relevant, meaningful, viable, feasible and capable of being completed within the time frame and resource constraints. The student will present the proposal in a seminar (Seminar I) to the Graduate Committee, academic staff in the discipline and supervisory committee. The Seminar is to be accompanied by a detailed research proposal of between 20-30 pages.
The standard University of Ghana PhD includes a Comprehensive examination in Seminar 1. The Comprehensive Examination entails questions set by the student’s supervisory which the student must pass before continuing to experiential learning (CCSD 720)
CCSD 720 SEMINAR 2: EXPERIENTIAL RESEARCH LEARNING SEMINAR
In Seminar II the student will report on the experiential research learning. The seminar is to be accompanied by a detailed report of between 20-30 pages and a report from the supervisor. The objective of the experiential learning which is part of the UG requirement of PhD is to help students to gain more practical experience and transferable skills development relevant to their studies, the industry, government and academia through the transformation of experience. Experiential learning is designed to foster the research knowledge, develop skills and abilities relevant to academia and beyond. PhD candidates will be required to complete a compulsory professional development component in the programme during year two of the PhD programme under the mentorship of supervisors.
CCSD 730 SEMINAR 3: THESIS PROGRESS REPORT SEMINAR
Seminar III will present provisional findings of the research at the end of the First Semester of Year Three. This seminar is to be open to the staff of the institute, the supervisory committee and to other PhD students. The seminar will be assessed by not less the three examiners. Failure to pass this Seminar will result in the termination of PhD Programme and the possible award of an M.Phil. on the advice of the School of Graduate Studies.
CCSD 740 SEMINAR 4: PROVISIONAL THESIS FINDINGS REPORT SEMINAR
Seminar IV will complement the final part of the PhD where the candidate presents his research findings in a seminar to the general public and to the supervisory committee at the end of his final thesis year. This is different and distinct from the oral examination which is carried out after the thesis has been submitted. The candidate is expected to take relevant comments from all required seminars so as to improve the quality of both thesis and presentation.
CCSD 700 THESIS
The PhD thesis serves as a comprehensive document that showcases the candidate's original research, scholarly contributions, and in-depth understanding of their chosen field of study, in this case, climate change and sustainability studies. The thesis typically consists of several chapters, including an introduction, literature review, research methodology, data analysis, results, discussion, and conclusions.
Once the thesis is submitted, the candidate proceeds to the oral defense, also known as the viva voce examination. The oral defense is an important component of the PhD evaluation process, as it allows the candidate to present and defend their research findings before a committee of experts in the field. This committee may consist of internal and external examiners, who rigorously assess the quality, validity, and significance of the research conducted.
During the oral defense, the candidate delivers a formal presentation, summarizing the key aspects of their research and highlighting the main findings and contributions. The committee members then engage in a question-and-answer session, where they probe the candidate's understanding of the research topic, methodology, results, and implications. The defense provides an opportunity for the candidate to demonstrate their expertise, critical thinking abilities, and ability to effectively communicate their research.
Successful completion of the oral defense, along with the acceptance of the PhD thesis by the committee, leads to the fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the PhD degree. It signifies that the candidate has met the rigorous standards of academic excellence and has made a significant contribution to the field of climate change and sustainability studies through their original research.
- RECOMMENDED SCINETIFIC JOURNALS
The list below is not exhaustive. Students are encouraged to consult academic databases, professional networks, and your research advisor for additional suggestions and the most up-to-date information on suitable journals for your specific research area.
|
Journal Name |
Publisher |
|
Global Environmental Change |
Elsevier |
|
Environmental Research Letters |
IOP Publishing |
|
Sustainability |
MDPI |
|
Nature Climate Change |
Nature Publishing Group |
|
Journal of Climate |
American Meteorological Society |
|
Journal of Environmental Management |
Elsevier |
|
Environmental Science & Policy |
Elsevier |
|
Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews |
Elsevier |
|
Journal of Sustainable Development |
Canadian Center of Science and Education |
|
Environmental Science & Technology |
American Chemical Society |
|
Climatic Change |
Springer |
|
Global Environmental Politics |
MIT Press |
|
Journal of Cleaner Production |
Elsevier |
|
Environmental Research |
Elsevier |
|
Environmental Science and Pollution Research |
Springer |
|
Energy Policy |
Elsevier |
|
Earth's Future |
Wiley |
|
Sustainability Science |
Springer |
|
Ecological Economics |
Elsevier |
|
Ecosystem Services |
Elsevier |