POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Program Overview

This 1-year postgraduate program in International Development equips learners with advanced knowledge and skills in development theory, practice, and project management. Through a blend of classroom instruction, online learning, and interactive discussions, graduates are prepared for diverse careers in the development and humanitarian sector, both domestically and internationally. The program welcomes applicants from the Global South, fostering a rich learning environment with diverse perspectives. Graduates may also transfer to the related MA in International Development, with credit granted for completed modules.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This full-time, 1-year (9-month) postgraduate program provides advanced-level learners, typically holding a primary degree or equivalent qualifications and prior experience in development context, with the tools and knowledge to thrive in various settings within the field. The focus is on equipping them with the ability to critically analyze policies and practices, hone leadership skills, and master critical reflection, research, and project planning/management/evaluation. The curriculum delves into contemporary theories of social change and development, while fostering strong leadership and group collaboration skills. Additionally, learners receive in-depth training in planning, managing, and evaluating development projects.

Outline:

The program encompasses 60 ECTS credits, where learners are required to complete four compulsory taught modules (35 credits):

• Contemporary Global Issues, Challenges and Responses (or Introduction to Development Theory and Practice)
• Critical Learning and Participatory Development Practice
• Gender, Identity and Inclusion
• Research Methods
Learners also choose elective modules to complete the remaining 25 credits, covering diverse topics such as:
• Conflict, development and security
• Political economy of environment and development
• Managing development organizations
• Results-based management
• Anthropology and development
• Global food systems
Optional Development Work Placement is also available during the second semester. Full-time learners typically engage in classroom delivery for taught modules, while online options also exist for specific modules. On-campus delivery, involving 25 hours of class contact per 10 credit module, can be structured as:
• 2.5 hour classes over 8-10 weeks
• concentrated week-long blocks
The program adopts a learner-centered, participative approach, fostering a unique learning environment by leveraging the diverse backgrounds of learners and expertise of experienced faculty.

Teaching:

The program leverages a blend of teaching methods, including:

• classroom instruction: led by experienced faculty with specialized knowledge in international development
• online learning: offering flexibility for diverse learner needs and schedules
• interactive discussions: fostering critical thinking, engagement, and peer learning
A strong emphasis is placed on equipping learners with practical skills and critical analysis techniques, necessary for tackling real-world development challenges.

Careers:

The program prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities within the development and humanitarian sector, both domestically and internationally. This includes:

• hands-on field-based positions: contributing directly to development initiatives overseas
• support roles in head offices: providing essential administrative and strategic support
• domestic development education : leading educational efforts to promote understanding and engagement with development issues within Ireland
Graduates with prior work experience can further enhance their existing capabilities, while recent graduates and those new to the field can establish a strong foundation for a fulfilling career in international development.

Other:

• The program also welcomes applicants from the Global South, further enriching the learning environment with diverse perspectives and experiences.
• Flexible learning formats accommodate varied learner needs and learning styles.
• Graduates may transfer to the related 90-credit MA in International Development at a later stage, with credit granted for completed modules.