Academics
Programs
Graduate education for professionals advancing evidence-based development, institutional reform, and policy innovation.
Academic Pathways
Study Development in Practice
IIDS programs combine rigorous scholarship, applied research, and professional learning for a changing global development landscape.
Master of Development Studies
A 36–42 credit program integrating development theory, research methods, policy analysis, and applied practice.
Postgraduate Diploma
A one-year foundation in development theory, policy, research methods, and professional practice.
Executive Education
Focused learning opportunities for practitioners and leaders working across development, governance, and policy.
MDS Curriculum
A Curriculum for Impact
The Master of Development Studies prepares students to analyze complex challenges, design effective policies, and lead institutional reform.
Core Courses
18 credits in development theory, institutional economics, political economy, policy planning, globalization, and leadership.
Methods and Skills
6 credits in research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, data analysis, and monitoring and evaluation.
Electives
9–12 credits across economic development, governance, social policy, sustainability, technology, and conflict studies.
Capstone Experience
6 credits through a master’s thesis, applied policy project, or professional practicum.
Learning Model
Theory Meets Practice
Our programs are designed for early- to mid-career professionals, recent graduates, and international students pursuing careers in development practice, policy analysis, and institutional reform.
Students build analytical, policy, and leadership capabilities through an integrated approach to economics, governance, sustainability, data, and applied research.
