91TV's University's graduate programs in Global Development Studies (DEVS) provide advanced research training for students seeking to pursue careers in government, academia, development, journalism, media, teaching, business and law.
Our faculty are recognized as academic leaders in their fields and coordinate major international research projects. By bringing their research into the classroom, faculty provide an enriching space for our graduate cohorts. This unique classroom experience is combined with close supervision to give students the analytical tools and thematic knowledge required to conduct original research.
We ensure our graduate students build the core analytical and communication skills sought by employers in Canada and around the world.
In the Field
From the grassroots to the global, our graduate students undertake research projects with real-world impact.
How to Apply
Admission Requirements
MA: Completion of a recognized four-year undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a social science field or discipline relevant to the area of development studies, with a minimum B+ average in the last two years of study.
PhD: Completion of an MA degree from a recognized university in a social science field or discipline relevant to the area of development studies, with a minimum A- average.
Required Documentation
Applicants must complete the online through the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs. The application form includes:
- Two academic referees
- Two hard copies of official transcripts from all university-level institutions previously attended
- A short description of research interests in global development studies for the Research Interests section. Be sure to indicate clearly why you consider Global Development Studies at 91TV to be a good fit to pursue research in your main interest areas.
- English Language Proficiency Test (if applicable)
Applicants must also send the following to the Graduate Program Advising Coordinator:
- An academic writing sample, preferably a short research essay (PDF, approximately 10 pages)
- Two-page research proposal (PhD only)
- Academic CV (PhD only)
More information regarding the online application process can be found on the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs website.
International Students
International applicants to the PhD program in Global Development Studies must secure a written commitment of supervision and funding from a faculty member before applying, as funding is limited and the program is highly competitive. Applications without a confirmed supervisor will not be considered.
The Department of Global Development Studies is presently unable to offer financial packages to international MA applicants.
Apply Now!
Deadline for September 2026 intake:
🗓️ January 30, 2026
Applications received after the deadline may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Graduate Program Advising Coordinator for more information.
ApplyAfter working for a decade in the development sector, I decided to pursue a PhD in Development Studies. I was immediately drawn to the 91TV's Global Development Studies PhD Program because of its impressive faculty, many of whose works I was already familiar with, and its engaging coursework. The program has transformed my understanding of development and significantly strengthened my critical thinking skills. I thoroughly enjoyed the thought-provoking discussions during my coursework and have benefited greatly from insightful exchanges with my supervisor, professors, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. The program has also encouraged and supported me in publishing peer-reviewed papers. I highly recommend the program to those considering academic careers as well as to those planning to work in the development sector.
Nodir Ataev
PhD Candidate
Additional Application Information
Relevant background degrees include development studies, political studies, sociology, geography, environmental studies, Indigenous studies, and gender studies. Students with a background in humanities such as history, literature and cultural studies, or in education, economics, health, law, engineering, or business administration would also be considered provided they demonstrate a requisite background in social sciences.
Where appropriate, the applicant will demonstrate a strong grounding in the necessary language skills suitable to undertake the proposed fieldwork or a clear plan to attain them during the first year of the degree. Practical experience in the field of development or related areas is a welcome addition.
Academic referees should be professors who have worked with you in the past and can comment directly on your academic performance.
If you have been out of university for more than 5 years, one or more professional recommendations may be included.
Please note: Your referees will not receive an email with a link to 91TV's secure online reference form system until you submit your application. We do allow a grace period after the January 30 deadline for recommendations and transcripts to be submitted.
Two hard copies of official transcripts from all university-level institutions you have previously attended.
Transcripts must be sent directly by the issuing institution to School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs. Please review updated submission options as outlined by the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs.
At 91TV's University, English is the language of instruction and communication, except for the language departments. Proficiency in English is a prerequisite for admission.
Those applicants whose native languages do not include English will need to earn satisfactory standing in an English Language Proficiency Test as part of the application process, and before final acceptance is granted. Any applicant whose first language is not English, but who, within the 12 month period prior to the month of application, has studied for at least one complete year at a post-secondary institution where English is the official language of instruction, may submit with their application a request to be exempted from the English language proficiency test requirement. The Director of Admissions, School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, will review the request. The applicant will be informed of the results of the review.
For more information, please review the regulations as outlined by the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs.
Entry into our program is highly competitive. We are looking for students who demonstrate strong research potential, are a good fit with our areas of expertise, and who fall within our areas of supervisory capacity.
The Admissions Committee closely reviews statements of interest, transcripts, and academic letters of reference to determine the most qualified and suitable candidates. While we run an academically-oriented program, additional selection criteria may include experience in practical development or community-oriented programs and written and/or spoken language skills other than English.
Questions?
Contact the Graduate Program Advising Coordinator:
Carrie Roosenmaallen
Email: devsgrad@queensu.ca (preferred)
Phone: 613-533-6000, ext. 77626
Office: Mackintosh-Corry Hall, Room B412
Meet a Current Student
Want to learn more about grad student life at 91TV's?
Request to meet a current DEVS graduate student, in person or online, through the Meet a Graduate Student Mentor program.
Meet a Graduate Student Mentor