PhD (Agricultural Economics)
The Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics focuses strongly on research and is designed to develop high-level skills in the use of Agricultural Economic and Agricultural Management techniques, including the analysis of the limitations and potential of the agricultural sector, in students who wish to become agricultural economists or management experts in the private or public sector. This expertise is necessary to ensure the international competitiveness of South African agricultural and related industries, and to enable South Africa to play its rightful role in the development of the agricultural sector in Africa. See section 2.4 in this chapter for general information on the PhD degree in the Faculty of AgriSciences.
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Programme overview
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When applying
Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Research Master’s and PhD applicants are strongly advised to consult the relevant department before applying to discuss their proposed research topic and confirm the availability of a suitable supervisor.
Minimum admission requirements
To be admitted to a PhD programme in the Faculty of Agrisciences you must have a recognised master’s degree in a relevant field from this University or another university, approved by Senate for this purpose.
Supporting application documents
Research proposal
Consult the relevant programme coordinator to enquire about the required length and format of this document for your programme of interest.
Typically, a research proposal is a formal structured document that should address the “what”, “why” and “how” questions. It should include a working title, an overview, aims and objectives, research questions and methods, significance of the research as well as the body of literature (references) that you consulted in your literature review.
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Research project / Outline / Proposal
Programme structure
Compulsory Module
15504: Agricultural Economics
978(360): Doctoral dissertation
Assessment and Examination
Note that the programme has a substantial residential requirement. After completion of the research you must submit a dissertation to the satisfaction of the examiners and present a seminar. You will be expected to defend your dissertation during this seminar.