60 ECTS credits are required to complete the full Postgraduate Diploma in International Development (part-time). PG Diploma learners must complete four compulsory taught modules (35 credits in total) - Contemporary Global Issues, Challenges and Responses (or Introduction to Development Theory and Practice); Critical Learning and Participatory Development Practice; Gender, Identity and Inclusion; and Research Methods - as well as choose from a number of elective modules to make up the remaining 25 credits. These address subjects such as: Conflict, Development and Security; Political Economy of Environment and Development; Managing Development Organisations; Results Based Management; Anthropology and Development; and Global Food Systems. Students also have an option to take a Development Work Placement module in the second semester. Learners who enroll on the Postgraduate Diploma can transfer to the 90-credit MA in International Development at a later date should they wish to do so, and will get credit for any modules already completed.
Delivery Options
A flexible approach to delivery is offered with students studying through a combination of on-campus delivery and online learning. Please note that as some modules require on-campus attendance this programme is only suitable for part time learners who are either resident in Ireland or who can travel to Ireland to attend certain modules as timetabled. It is not possible to complete the full PG Diploma programme entirely online.
A flexible approach to on-campus delivery is also taken with some courses offered through 2.5 hour taught classes over 8-10 weeks, and others offered through more concentrated blocks of time, depending on timetable requirements and arrangements. Online learning is structured to allow learners to study at their own pace over a semester and it includes some face-to-face interaction as well as structured materials and discussions online.
Learning Approach
The Department of International Development applies a learner-centred, participatory and flexible approach to learning. This combined with the diverse groups of full- and part-time learners, including a significant number of international students, creates a unique learning environment that builds on both the diverse array of experiences of participants and on the knowledge and experience of academic staff.
Course Duration: 2 - 4 years part-time