Ph.D. in Sustainable Development at the University of Notre Dame – STEM-Designated, Fully Funded Program

The Ph.D. in Sustainable Development at the University of Notre Dame is a prestigious, STEM-designated doctoral program designed to equip scholars with the knowledge, skills, and interdisciplinary perspective required to address pressing global challenges in sustainable development. From climate change mitigation and adaptation to environmental governance and development policy, this program prepares students to make a tangible impact on the world while advancing their academic and professional careers.

Guided by the principles of Catholic social teaching and inspired by Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’, Notre Dame’s program emphasizes improving human well-being, particularly for the most vulnerable, while safeguarding the planet. Students join a vibrant, interdisciplinary community of scholars and practitioners shaping global policy and practice in sustainable development.

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Program Highlights

Notre Dame’s Ph.D. in Sustainable Development combines world-class mentorship, interdisciplinary research, and policy-relevant scholarship, ensuring that graduates are fully prepared for both academic and professional leadership roles. Key program highlights include:

• Mentorship: Work closely with distinguished faculty at the Keough School of Global Affairs.

• Interdisciplinary Research: Gain access to nine renowned research centers and institutes at Notre Dame.

• Engaged Scholarship: Conduct research that directly informs global policy and practice in sustainable development.

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Curriculum Overview

The Ph.D. program is structured to provide both foundational knowledge and specialized research training:

Core Coursework (15 Credits)

Students take five required courses in the first two years:

1. Sustainable Development: Organizing the Field – Examine key frameworks and empirical evidence.

2. Decisions and Behavior in Development – Explore decision-making in the Global South.

3. Sustainable Development Research Methods – Gain quantitative and qualitative research skills.

4. Seminar on Research for Impact – Learn to communicate research findings effectively.

5. Sustainable Development PhD Seminar – Prepare for qualifying exams and dissertation work.

Elective Courses (21 Credits)

Students select seven electives, including at least three advanced research methods courses, from across Notre Dame’s departments.

Dissertation Credits (30 Credits)

From Year 3 onward, students focus exclusively on dissertation research under faculty supervision.

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Milestones

While the program typically takes five years, timelines may vary:

• Oral Qualifying Exam (End of Year 2): Demonstrate mastery of core and specialty areas.

• Candidacy Exam (Year 3): Present and defend the dissertation proposal. Achieve ABD (All But Dissertation) status.

• Dissertation Defense (Year 5): Present and defend the completed dissertation to the committee.

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Teaching and Research Opportunities

Ph.D. students participate in Teaching Assistant (TA) and Research Assistant (RA) roles:

• Teaching Assistants: Lead discussions, grade assignments, and assist with course delivery (minimum two semesters, maximum five).

• Research Assistants: Collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research projects, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable development scholarship.

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Why Choose Notre Dame?

The Keough School of Global Affairs offers a rich ecosystem for interdisciplinary learning, mentorship, and global impact. Students benefit from:

• Access to a global network of scholars and practitioners.

• Partnerships with leading international organizations.

• A supportive academic environment fostering excellence and ethical leadership.

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Funding and Financial Support

Notre Dame provides comprehensive funding for all admitted Ph.D. students:

• 12-month stipend for living expenses.

• Full tuition scholarship.

• Health insurance subsidy.

• Up to $4,000 for conferences and professional development.

• Requirement to secure at least one external grant or fellowship valued at $10,000 by Year 4.

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Admissions and Eligibility

The program welcomes students from diverse academic, cultural, and professional backgrounds who demonstrate:

• Strong academic foundation in relevant fields.

• Commitment to addressing global sustainable development challenges.

Application materials include:

• Statement of Purpose

• Academic Transcripts

• GRE Scores

• TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo (for non-native English speakers)

• Writing Sample

• Three Letters of Recommendation

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Faculty and Research Mentorship

Notre Dame’s faculty are experts in sustainable development, particularly focusing on the most vulnerable communities in the Global South. Students work closely with faculty to shape a program aligned with their research interests. Notable faculty include:

• Tracy Kijewski-Correa

• Krister Andersson

• Santosh Kumar Gautam

• Ellis Adjei Adams

• Emily Grubert

• Alejandro Estefán Dávila

• Arun Agrawal

• Patrizio Piraino

• Lakshmi Iyer

• Daniel C. Miller

• Erin Graham

• Maira Hayat

• Drew Marcantonio

• China Scherz

• Helge-Johannes Marahrens

• Brenda Samaniego de la Parra

• Isaac Mbiti

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Important Dates

• Application portal is open now.

• Admission is rolling, but early applications are encouraged for optimal funding and mentorship opportunities.

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How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the Notre Dame Graduate School portal, including all required materials. Only complete applications will be reviewed.

APPLY HERE

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The Ph.D. in Sustainable Development at Notre Dame offers a fully funded, STEM-designated doctoral programcombining world-class mentorship, interdisciplinary research, and global policy engagement. Admitted students gain hands-on experience addressing critical sustainable development challenges, positioning them as leaders in both academia and international practice. This program is ideal for aspiring scholars committed to research, policy impact, and advancing sustainable development worldwide.