Program Overview
The Master of Development Studies is a two-year program that explores the complexities of international development. Students learn from academics with expertise in the field and gain real-world experience through internships and research projects. The program prepares graduates for careers in local community development, international aid work, advocacy, and human rights.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Development Studies is a two-year, full-time or part-time equivalent degree that provides specialist studies in international development at the local, national, and global levels. The program takes a participatory approach to the philosophy of human rights, social justice, and community development.
Objectives:
- Explore the complexities of geopolitical, economic, social, ethical, and cultural contexts in which development takes place
- Learn from a team of academics at the front line of international development practice both globally and in Australia
- Benefit from real-world experience and expertise
Outline:
Year 1
- Semester 1
- Introduction to Development Studies
- Social Justice and Development
- Research Methods for Development Studies
- Semester 2
- Political Economy of Development
- Sustainable Development
- Gender and Development
Year 2
- Semester 1
- Humanitarian Action and Disaster Risk Reduction
- Participatory Development and Community Engagement
- Development Policy and Practice
- Semester 2
- Thesis Research Project
- Elective course
- Elective course
Assessment:
- Assessment methods include essays, reports, presentations, and a thesis research project.
- Assessment criteria include critical thinking, analytical skills, research skills, and communication skills.
Teaching:
- The program is taught by a team of academics with expertise in international development.
- Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, workshops, and field trips.
- The program includes a strong emphasis on experiential learning, with students undertaking internships and research projects in the field.
Careers:
- Graduates of the Master of Development Studies are qualified to work in a wide range of fields from local community development to international aid work, advocacy, and human rights.
- Potential career paths include:
- Development officer
- Humanitarian aid worker
- Policy analyst
- Researcher
- Advocate
- Human rights officer
Entry Requirements:
For the 1 year stream (A) Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%. Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%, plus one year relevant professional experience. For the 1.7 year stream (B) Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%. Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%, plus one year relevant professional experience. Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%. For the 2 year stream (C) Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.
- It is expected that a Graduate Diploma will have been completed after an undergraduate degree. Relevant disciplines include: Social Sciences; Humanities; Business; Economics; Law; Public Health; Communications; Social Work; Psychology/Psychological Science.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment. If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency. If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria: English language tests and university English courses Prior study in the medium of English Other qualifications If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
