The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Sciences is a rigorous, research-oriented programme designed to develop scholars with advanced expertise in analyzing complex social issues, generating new knowledge, and contributing to social transformation. The programme empowers candidates to carry out independent, original, and impactful research addressing critical challenges within society, policy, and development. It nurtures critical thinking, academic leadership, and methodological skills essential for high-level contributions in academia, policy-making, and professional practice.
The PhD in Social Sciences aims to:
Advance theoretical and empirical knowledge across various social science disciplines.
Train scholars to design, conduct, and disseminate high-quality, independent research.
Develop advanced methodological skills, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research.
Foster critical thinking and innovative approaches to address social problems and policy gaps.
Prepare graduates for academic leadership and teaching roles in higher education institutions.
Cultivate ethical and socially responsible research practices to influence positive societal change.
Graduates of this programme will be able to:
Demonstrate mastery of theoretical frameworks and advanced research methods in the social sciences.
Design and conduct independent, original research projects addressing complex social issues.
Analyze and interpret data to generate new insights that inform policy and practice.
Publish scholarly work in reputable journals and present findings at academic and professional conferences.
Contribute to curriculum development, mentoring, and teaching in higher education settings.
Engage with policymakers, communities, and organizations to translate research into action.
Uphold ethical principles and social responsibility in all aspects of their research and professional practice.
Holders of a PhD in Social Sciences are well-positioned for a wide array of influential roles, including:
University lecturer, senior academic, or researcher
Policy analyst or policy advisor in government ministries and agencies
Research director in think tanks, NGOs, or international development organizations
Consultant on social policy, research, and evaluation projects
Social development specialist in global organizations such as the UN, World Bank, or regional bodies
Leadership positions in community development or advocacy organizations
Authors and public intellectuals contributing to social policy debates
Graduates will be equipped to influence decision-making, advance knowledge, and drive positive change in society, both nationally and internationally.