International Development distance PhD

[ UniNews Vol. 12, No. 21  17 November - 1 December 2003 ]

Melbourne University Private’s School of Development Studies offers a new PhD course in International Development fully taught by distance study, enabling development professionals to undertake the degree while working anywhere in the world.

Executive Dean of the School, Dr Vin Massaro, says the doctorate is being introduced following numerous requests.

“It’s a logical extension of the graduate certificate and masters degree in International Development which we already teach. We are a major consulting organisation specialising in the development field so our staff can provide world class supervision,” he says.

“With the development industry becoming global a growing demand exists for high-level, specialised qualifications for experienced professionals who want to further their careers.

“In delivering the PhD by distance we will enable these people to complete a unique program without quitting their jobs and perhaps missing career opportunities.

“Even if they change employment and move to another country they will be able to finish the course.”

The degree includes a flexible coursework component, tailor-made for individual candidates in consultation with the Academic Head of School, Professor Michael Webber. Two-thirds of the doctorate consists of a major research thesis.

“Candidates will also be able to write the thesis in a language other than English,” Dr Massaro says.

The new course will begin next year, with intakes in March and July. Applications close in December this year and early June 2004 respectively.

MU Private’s School of Development Studies, with an annual turnover of more than $A25 million, is involved in consultation and management of development assistance, particularly in the Gulf region, Asia, the Pacific and Eastern Europe.

It is fully owned by the University of Melbourne and staff from both institutions will cooperate closely in delivering the PhD program.