PhD English

PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS)PhD in International Development Studies

Ruhr-Universität Bochum Bochum · North Rhine-Westphalia

About the Program

PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS)

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PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS)

Application Requirements

Above-average advanced degree in human geography, law, social or political science, economics, development management or related subjects: qualified university degree (Master's or equivalent) with an overall grade equivalent to 2.7 (fully satisfactory) according to the German grading system after completion of relevant studies with a duration of at least four years, or qualified degree with an overall grade equivalent to 1.3 (very good) according to the German grading system after completion of relevant studies with a duration of at least three years plus preparatory studies for the PhD of usually three semesters For international degrees, the equivalence will be judged during the application process. Candidates who have to follow preparatory studies before admission to the PhD in International Development Studies can be accepted for such preparatory studies at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum. Applicants must submit a research proposal (five pages maximum). Guidelines for writing the research proposal are available for download on the website of the institute.

Language Requirements

Official certificate confirming applicant's English language proficiency equivalent to CEFR level C1 (e.g. IELTS band 7 or TOEFL iBT 94 or above, Duolingo 125 or above) If English has been your language of instruction since your secondary education, a proof of your English language proficiency is not compulsory, but it is nonetheless recommended.

Quick Facts

University: Ruhr-Universität Bochum
City / State: Bochum, North Rhine-Westphalia
Degree: PhD
Language of Instruction: English
Duration: 6 semesters
Winter Semester Deadline: 31.03.2027

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How do I apply to PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS) at Ruhr-Universität Bochum?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS) at Ruhr-Universität Bochum

Is PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS) at Ruhr-Universität Bochum taught in German or English? ▼

This PhD programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS) programme cost? ▼

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS) at Ruhr-Universität Bochum? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying PhD in International Development Studies (PhD IDS)? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Ruhr-Universität Bochum — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.