For Myanmar students: Call for applications to the Development Studies & Social Research special certificate program, held from August to December 2025. The program is conducted entirely online, with a mix of English and Burmese language lectures and reading materials.
This course is designed to help students connect social theories with real-world research practice. The skills developed throughout the program will support you and your community in building much-needed academic and practical knowledge, especially in the current context of Myanmar. As we face challenges, change, and hardship, training a new generation of social researchers is more important than ever. This program also connects students to an international network of academics and development professionals. Upon completion, participants will earn academic credit that can be applied toward a Master’s degree at Chiang Mai University.
All coursework is delivered online and is designed with flexibility in mind—ideal for those with limited time, irregular schedules, or unstable internet connectivity. Instructors are available for live online discussions or via alternative communication channels. The course is accredited by Chiang Mai University, and the academic credits earned may be applied toward a future Master’s degree in Social Sciences (Development).
The program includes seven modules and a supervised term paper or assignment, delivered through lectures, group discussions, self-study, and guided teamwork. Lectures and discussions will be in Burmese, while core reading materials are in English. Each module consists of 45 hours of teaching, discussion, and assignments.
The course is developed and led by Dr. Mike Griffiths, Research Fellow at the Regional Center for Social Science and Sustainable Development (RCSD), Faculty of Social Sciences, Chiang Mai University, with over 15 years of teaching and research experience in Myanmar.
Scholarships:
A limited number of full scholarships (18,100 THB / approximately 495 USD) are available for eligible students from Myanmar. Those who wish to be considered for financial support must indicate their request in the online application form. At the end of the form, applicants will be asked: “Will you require financial support?” Please select “Yes, I would like to request for full scholarship”. All applicants who select this option will be automatically considered during the selection process. No separate email or additional documentation is required.
Duration: 5 months
Date: August – December 2025
Time: Sat & Sun
Number of students accepted: 25
Registration Fee: 17,500 THB plus 600 THB Chiang Mai University Fee
Qualifications: The applicant must have completed a bachelor’s degree in any field or be currently in the final year of undergraduate studies.
Application deadline: 7 August 2025
Start the application process online here.