fas@ucu.ac.ug +256 (0)312 350 837, +256 (0)751410822
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fas@ucu.ac.ug +256 (0)312 350 837, +256 (0)751410822
Apply Now

PhD. Agricultural Systems and Value Chain Management

PhD. Agricultural Systems and Value Chain Management
Entry requirements:
Intakes
Programme Structure
Programme Length

Lead the transformation of agriculture from production to markets. Uganda Christian University’s PhD in Agricultural Systems and Value Chain Management is designed for senior professionals, researchers, and academics seeking to generate high-impact knowledge that strengthens agricultural systems, competitiveness, and sustainability. Delivered through a flexible, blended model with strong online supervision, the programme enables candidates to pursue rigorous, policy-relevant research while remaining professionally engaged.

The PhD focuses on agricultural systems analysis, value chain governance, agribusiness competitiveness, innovation systems, sustainability, food systems, and evidence-based policy. Candidates work closely with experienced supervisors to produce original research that advances theory and delivers practical solutions for farmers, enterprises, and policymakers. Grounded in ethical leadership and Christian values, the programme prepares graduates for leadership roles in universities, research institutions, international organizations, government, and the private sector.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Development Studies, Food Systems, Environmental Sciences, or a related field from a recognized institution, with a strong research component (thesis/dissertation). Applicants must submit a concept note or research proposal, academic transcripts, a CV, and at least two academic referees. Demonstrated research experience and publications are an added advantage.

September/Advent

January/Easter

Year 1 Semester 1

  1. Farming systems in developing countries
  2. Crop & Livestock production for development
  3. Research Methods
  4. International Agricultural Trade
  5. Agricultural Policy Analysis

Year 1 Semester 2

  1. Post-harvest systems and trade
  2. Agricultural Marketing & value chain analysis
  3. Agricultural Information systems
  4. Advanced Christian Ethics
  5. Gender and Value Chain Development
  6. Extension systems administration and Organization

Year 2 to Year 3

Research Project

The programme will run for three years with demarcation into semesters.

  1. The Doctoral programme shall be completed through course works, manuscript development, research, dissertation and successful oral examination. In case the candidate is deemed weak in some specific area, some remedial courses may be recommended to strengthen the candidate in the specialized area of choice
  2. Candidates will be required to register for full time programme, which shall run for a minimum of 36 months and a period not exceeding 60 months unless with prior approved deferment
  3. Candidate may be discontinued on failure to demonstrate positive progress for two consecutive quarters unless with prior approved deferment
  4. The supervision of research, dissertation writing, manuscript development and supervision, submission and examination shall be governed by the Uganda Christian University’s Rules and Regulations as stipulated in the University Statute and Schedule on Doctoral Degree Programmes
  5. The students are required to follow their own interest and specialization by undertaking an in-depth study and writing a dissertation, which is followed by a viva-voce. Each student works under an academic supervisor (s) from the faculty of agricultural Sciences and any other person’s recommended by the Department board of Natural Resource Economics and Agribusiness Management and approved by the Senate