The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program in Sustainable Development supports interdisciplinary doctoral research in sustainable development, combining mentorship, engaged scholarship, and policy-relevant work to address climate change, environmental governance, and development policy. The Notre Dame PhD Scholarship prepares scholars for impactful careers through rigorous coursework, research methods training, and dissertation-focused study.
The program is offered by the University of Notre Dame’s Keough School of Global Affairs and is inspired by principles of integral human development and Laudato Si’. The Keough School connects students with nine research centers and a global network of scholars, practitioners, and international partners to inform policy and practice.
The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program Benefits
- A 12-month stipend for living expenses.
- Full tuition scholarship.
- Health insurance subsidy.
- Up to $4,000 for conference presentations and professional development.
The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program Eligibility Criteria
- A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent post-secondary degree) from an accredited institution with an excellent educational background in a relevant area of study.
- A strong academic foundation in relevant fields.
- Commitment to addressing global challenges in sustainable development
Why Notre Dame?
Notre Dame’s Keough School of Global Affairs offers a unique ecosystem for interdisciplinary learning and global impact. With its emphasis on integral human development, students benefit from:
- Access to a global network of scholars and practitioners.
- Partnerships with leading international organizations.
- A supportive environment that fosters academic excellence and ethical leadership.
The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program Highlights
- Mentorship: Work closely with distinguished Keough School faculty with expertise in sustainable development.
- Interdisciplinary Research: Access resources across nine renowned research centers and institutes.
- Engaged Scholarship: Gain practical experience through research that informs global policy and practice.
Curriculum for The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program
- Core Coursework (15 Credits): Five required courses taken in the first two years designed to establish a shared foundation and ensure interdisciplinary competency:
- Elective Courses (21 Credits): Choose seven electives, including at least three in advanced research methods, from across Notre Dame’s departments.
- Dissertation Credits (30 credits): Focus exclusively on dissertation research starting in Year 3.
How to Apply for The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program?
- Submit materials via the Notre Dame Graduate School portal.
- Statement of Purpose
- Academic Transcripts
- GRE Scores
- TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for non-native speakers of English
- Writing Sample
- Three Letters of Recommendation
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program in Sustainable Development. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, funding, and how to apply for the Ph.D. in Sustainable Development at Notre Dame.
What is the The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program?
The The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program at Notre Dame is a STEM-designated doctoral program that trains scholars to address global challenges such as climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental governance, and development policy. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, mentorship, and policy-relevant scholarship, preparing students for careers that influence international policy and practice.
Who offers the The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program in Sustainable Development?
The program is offered by the University of Notre Dame’s Keough School of Global Affairs. The Keough School supports interdisciplinary learning and connects students to nine research centers and a global network of scholars, fostering applied research and partnerships with international organizations.
Is the The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program funded?
Admitted students receive comprehensive financial support including a 12-month stipend, a full tuition scholarship, a health insurance subsidy, and up to $4,000 for conference presentations and professional development. Students are expected to apply for at least one external grant or fellowship valued at $10,000 by Year 4.
When is the application deadline of The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program?
Applications for the The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program in Sustainable Development are open for a Fall 2027 start, with applicants required to apply by December 1, 2026. The program’s application is submitted via the Notre Dame Graduate School portal.
What materials are required to apply for The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program?
To apply, submit materials through the Notre Dame Graduate School portal. Required items listed include a Statement of Purpose, Academic Transcripts, GRE Scores, TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo for non-native English speakers, a Writing Sample, and Three Letters of Recommendation.
What teaching or research opportunities are available in The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program?
Students serve as Teaching Assistants (TAs) or Research Assistants (RAs) throughout the program. TAs may lead discussions, grade assignments, and assist with course delivery and must serve at least two semesters (maximum five). RAs collaborate with faculty on research projects, contributing to professional development.
How long does the Ph.D. typically take?
While timelines vary, most students complete the program in five years. The typical five-year timeline includes an Oral Qualifying Exam at the end of Year 2, a Candidacy Exam in Year 3 to advance to ABD status, and a Dissertation Defense in Year 5.
What is the curriculum structure of The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program?
The curriculum includes 15 credits of core coursework (five required courses), 21 credits of electives (seven electives including at least three advanced research methods), and 30 dissertation credits focused on research beginning in Year 3. Core courses cover foundations, research methods, and dissertation preparation.
Who teaches in the The University of Notre Dame’s Doctoral Program?
Keough School faculty with expertise in sustainable development teach and mentor students. The faculty list includes a range of scholars such as Tracy Kijewski-Correa, Krister Andersson, Santosh Kumar Gautam, Emily Grubert, Arun Agrawal, and others who integrate research and practice to shape student training.
Who can I contact for more information?
For questions about the Ph.D. in Sustainable Development, contact Christian Lehman, Associate Director of Graduate Recruitment and Admissions, at [email protected]. Additional program and admissions information is available through the Keough School and the Notre Dame Graduate School portals.
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