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The PhD in Development Economics

The PhD in Development Economics is a collaborative programme between the University of Ghana (UG), and the United Nations University-World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER). The programme begins in January each year. The closing date for applications is 31 October of the year prior to which studies are to commence.

DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME
The duration of the programme is four years and it is offered on full-time basis. The first two years are devoted to coursework and internship while the last two years are for writing a thesis.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Students are expected to take six core courses, consisting of Advanced Microeconomic Theory, Advanced Macroeconomic Theory, Applied Econometrics, Theories and Methods of Development, Applied Theory and Methods of Economic Development and Philosophy of Social Sciences. In addition, they are expected to choose one elective course each semester of the first year. The total credit hours is 24, which should meet the requirements of the Faculty of Social Sciences. Selected topics of some of the core and electives courses will be taught by visiting scholars. The PhD Degree is awarded by the University of Ghana.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
Interested applicants to the PhD in Development Economics program must hold a Master’s Degree in Economics or a related field. The applicant must have taken a year’s coursework at the M. Phil level or its equivalent with at least a B+ average in Micro, Macro and Quantitative Methods.
 

FUNDING & INTENSHIP
The Programme is supported by UNU-WIDER. A limited number of students (especially females) admitted into the programme may be granted scholarships renewable yearly up to a maximum of three years depending on the candidate’s academic performance. In addition, successful applicants will undertake up to three months internship at UNU-WIDER in Helsinki during the second year of their training analyzing project related datasets. The cost of the internship will be covered by UNU-WIDER. Female Applicants and those from the West African sub-region are highly encouraged to apply.

HOW TO APPLY
Applicants residing in Ghana and Ghanaians are required to purchase e-vouchers from any branch of Fidelity Bank, HFC Bank, Ecobank, and ADB and apply online (see School of Research and Graduate Studies website – www.srgs.ug.edu.gh )

Applicants outside Ghana and Non-Ghanaians should visit the School of Graduate Studies or the University’s website and download the application form. After completion, the form should be sent to the address below with a non-refundable application fee of US$110 or its equivalent in international money order.

Applicants must, in addition, submit the following documents:
1. 2 copies of Certificate(s) authenticated by institution(s) awarding degree(s).

2. 2 copies of University Transcript(s) authenticated by institution(s) awarding academic results

3. 3 Referee reports (two must be from person(s) who are familiar with the applicant’s academic work, one of whom should be the applicant’s graduate supervisor or the head of the department of the institution where the student obtained his/her graduate degree)

4. A research proposal (max. 10 pages).

5. CV showing academic and work experiences.

Completed form and supporting documents including “proof of submission” of application must be addressed to, or submitted in person to:

 

The Executive Secretary
School of Graduate Studies
University of Ghana
P. O. Box 571
Legon, Accra. Ghana