International Development and Management - Master of Science Programme

The International Development and Management - Master of Science programme is an interdisciplinary programme that provides advanced knowledge and explores how global processes shape societies, economies, and environments. The programme is designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds who want to work with international cooperation, global justice, and sustainable development.

Overview

The programme is a two-year, full-time Master's programme that integrates theory, field experience, and research-based learning, providing strong analytical, methodological, and managerial competence. The language of instruction is English, and students study at the Department of Human Geography in the city of Lund. The programme attracts students from all over the world, creating an open, international, and collaborative learning environment.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching combines theoretical knowledge, applied research methods, and management tools and skills developed through lectures, seminars, workshops, and group projects. Students learn from researchers and practitioners who work with real-world development and management issues and apply their knowledge in case studies, simulations, and fieldwork.

First Year

In the first year, students are introduced to key concepts, methods, and debates in international development and management. They deepen their knowledge of global health, environment, and livelihoods, urbanization, and development practice. Students also train their research and analytical skills through coursework in theory of science and research methodology.

Second Year

In the second year, students move from theory to practice. They carry out a field-based internship or project placement, often in collaboration with international organizations, NGOs, or research institutes. This is an opportunity for students to find a workplace that matches their interests and career goals. The programme is examined with a Master's thesis, where students analyze a current development issue using theoretical and empirical tools.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the programme will be equipped to analyze, evaluate, and influence development processes, contributing to sustainable and equitable change in an increasingly interconnected world. The programme prepares students for advanced professional roles in international development, sustainability, humanitarian work, management work, and research. Graduates' skills and knowledge will be useful within international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, private companies, or academic institutions. The programme also provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies in development studies and related fields.

Requirements and Selection

• A Bachelor's degree equivalent to 180 credits
• English course 6 (advanced proficiency)
• Academic grades: The structure of the programme requires students who are used to performing at a high academic level. In recent years, a significant majority of admitted students have maintained a CGPA of at least 3.5 out of 4.

Selection Criteria

The applicant's estimated capacity to complete the programme is the primary criterion for selection. Students are selected based on their previous study results, relevant work experience, and a statement of purpose.

Tuition Fees

• Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens: SEK 270,000 for the full programme, with the first payment being SEK 67,500.
• No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland.

Scholarships and Funding

• Lund University Global Scholarship Programme: A merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.
• African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship: Targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities.
• Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals: Scholarships for international students from certain countries applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden.
• Country-specific scholarships and funding options: Lund University has agreements with scholarship organizations and funding bodies in different countries.
• External scholarships: Examples of organizations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises 120 credits and is a two-year, full-time Master's programme. It integrates theory, field experience, and research-based learning, providing strong analytical, methodological, and managerial competence.

Course Overview

• Year 1:
  • Introduction to International Development and Management
  • Development Studies: Development Cooperation and Practice
  • Development Studies: Theory of Science and Research Methodologies with a Focus on Development Studies
  • Development Studies: Global Health
  • Development Studies: Livelihoods, Environment, and Urbanisation
  • Development Studies: The Development Practitioner
  • Development Studies: Research Design and Methods in Development Studies
• Year 2:
  • Development Studies: Field Studies of Programme Management
  • Field Methods
  • Development Studies: Master's Thesis

Frequently Asked Questions

• What background do I need to apply? A Bachelor's degree equivalent to at least 180 credits. The programme welcomes applicants from a variety of academic disciplines.
• What is the language of instruction? All courses and examinations are conducted in English.
• Does the programme include an internship? Yes, during the third semester, students complete a field-based internship or project placement within a relevant professional environment.
• What are the career prospects after graduation? Graduates work as analysts, project managers, consultants, or researchers within international organizations, NGOs, public authorities, and private companies.
• Can I continue to a PhD? Yes, the programme qualifies students for doctoral studies in development studies and related disciplines.
• How long is the field placement? Students are expected to complete a minimum of 13 weeks in their field placement on a full-time basis, and conduct data collection for their Master's thesis, which generally takes place away from Lund.
• Is the field placement financed by the programme? No, students must cover their own expenses related to the field placement, although they may be covered by university insurance.
• Is it possible to attend the programme part-time? No, this is a full-time study programme, with a workload of 40 hours per week, including individual study, group work, and attending classes.
• Do I need relevant work experience to attend the programme? Relevant work experience is prioritized, particularly field-based experience, such as working with local organizations or conducting research in low and middle-income countries.

Lund University

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Overview:

Lund University is a renowned international university located in Sweden. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including bachelor's and master's degrees, exchange programs, and doctoral studies. The university is known for its strong research and innovation ecosystem, fostering collaboration and excellence.

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Services Offered:

Lund University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Student services and support:

This includes assistance with IT resources, literature and libraries, study skills, language and academic writing, examination, study guidance and career, grades, credits and certificates, and more.

International Desk:

Offers support for international students.

Student Health Centre:

Provides healthcare services to students.

International opportunities:

Offers exchange programs, traineeships, fieldwork opportunities, summer courses, and grants and scholarships for students seeking international experiences.

Financial matters:

Provides information on tuition payments, banking in Sweden, and scholarships for current students.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Lund University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students.

Lund as a student city:

The city of Lund is known for its rich history, cultural activities, and student-friendly atmosphere.

Student organizations:

Students can participate in various student nations, the Academic Society, student unions, and associations.

Sport and exercise:

The university offers opportunities for sports and exercise.

Cultural activities:

Students can engage in a variety of cultural activities.

Faith and spirituality:

The university provides support for students' faith and spirituality.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

International reputation:

Lund University is highly ranked internationally and recognized for its academic excellence.

Diverse academic programs:

Offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines.

Strong research and innovation:

Provides opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research.

Vibrant student life:

Offers a lively and supportive campus community.

Beautiful and historic location:

Located in the charming city of Lund, with a rich history and cultural heritage.

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Academic Programs:

Bachelor's and Master's studies:

Offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's degree programs in various subject areas, including architecture and design, area studies, business, economics and management, engineering and technology, environment and sustainability, fine and performing arts, humanities and languages, law, medicine and health, science, service management, and social sciences.

Exchange and study abroad:

Provides opportunities for students to study abroad at partner universities.

Doctoral studies:

Offers doctoral programs in various fields.