The Masters of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) research programmes constitute a course of self-selected academic study in the areas of international, national, regional and urban development, focusing on the political, economic, social and institutional dimensions of development. They embrace the range of areas of study that are central to the interests of the DPU (for more information on DPU's research activities click here, or visit the individual pages of DPU's academic staff).

The DPU takes an inter-disciplinary and inter-sectoral approach to a range of fields such as urban planning, urban design, economic development, social development, housing, disasters, transport and urban agriculture. Cross-cutting issues such as gender, culture, environment and poverty are of central concern. Emphasis is given to research into topics that are at the forefront of development theory and practice, in the context of trends such as globalisation, privatisation, climate change and increased socio-economic inequalities.

MPhil/PhD Development Planning DPU's MPhil/PhD Development Planning Programme is designed to support the formation of rigorous researchers by helping them strengthen their analytical skills whilst critically engaging with theoretical concepts and methodological tools.