Master of International Development

Program Overview

The Master of International Development (MIntDev) at Massey University equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle global development challenges. The program focuses on development theories, global issues, policy and practice, research methods, and critical thinking. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in government agencies, NGOs, multilateral organizations, and the private sector, contributing to sustainable development and human well-being worldwide.

Program Outline

Master of International Development (MIntDev) - Massey University

Degree Overview:

The Master of International Development (MIntDev) at Massey University equips you with the knowledge and skills to tackle the world's development challenges.

Objectives:

• Analyze the effects of global economic, social, political, and environmental forces on communities worldwide.
• Identify inequalities and develop strategies to overcome poverty and enhance human well-being.
• Understand and critically evaluate contemporary international development theories, policies, and approaches.
• Conduct independent research on development issues, collect relevant data, and write persuasive reports.
• Master social science research methods and techniques for independent research.
• Interpret research findings and translate them into actionable insights for development theory, policy, and practice.

Program Description:

The MIntDev is a postgraduate program attracting students from diverse academic, cultural, and professional backgrounds. The curriculum focuses on:

• Development Theories and Approaches: Explores various development paradigms, including historical perspectives, current trends, and emerging challenges.
• Global Development Issues: Analyzes critical issues like poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, climate change, and human rights.
• Development Policy and Practice: Examines the design, implementation, and evaluation of development policies and programs.
• Research Methods and Analysis: Equips students with the skills to conduct independent research, analyze data, and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Develops students' ability to critically analyze complex development issues and propose innovative solutions.

Outline:

Structure:

The MIntDev is a 180-credit program that can be completed in one year of full-time study or up to five years of part-time study. The program is divided into two parts:

• Part One (120 credits): Comprises core courses and elective courses chosen from a list of approved subjects.
• Part Two (60 credits): Offers two pathways:
• Coursework Pathway:
Students complete a 60-credit research report.
• Research Pathway: Students undertake a 120-credit thesis.

Course Schedule:

The course schedule is flexible and allows students to choose courses that align with their interests and career aspirations. Some of the available courses include:

• Rethinking Development: Explores the evolution of development thinking and contemporary approaches to development practice.
• Development Management: Focuses on planning, implementing, and evaluating development programs and projects.
• Development Research Design: Provides training in research methods and ethical considerations for development studies.
• Gender and Development: Examines the intersection of gender, development planning, and social change.
• Sustainable Development: Explores the concept of sustainable development in its economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
• Globalization and Development: Analyzes the impact of globalization on development in areas like conflict, migration, and tourism.
• Development Practicum: Offers professional work experience in an approved development agency.
• Human Security in Application: Analyzes the application of human security in national and international contexts.

Modules:

Each course delves into specific topics and provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills. For example, the "Rethinking Development" course covers:

• Origins and meaning of development
• Paradigmatic approaches to development
• Contemporary development practices
The "Development Management" course focuses on:
• Project planning and management
• Monitoring and evaluation frameworks
• Stakeholder engagement and communication

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the chosen courses and program pathway. Some common assessment methods include:

• Essays and research papers: Demonstrate understanding of key concepts and critical thinking skills.
• Presentations and group work: Foster communication and collaboration skills.
• Examinations: Test knowledge and comprehension of course material.
• Research report or thesis: Evaluate students' ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and present findings.

Teaching:

Massey University boasts experienced professors and lecturers who are active researchers and practitioners in the field of international development. The teaching methods employed include:

• Lectures: Provide foundational knowledge and introduce key concepts.
• Tutorials and seminars: Facilitate active learning, discussion, and critical analysis.
• Guest lectures: Offer insights from renowned experts in the field.
• Field trips and case studies: Provide real-world context and practical application of development theories.

Careers:

Graduates of the MIntDev program are well-equipped for careers in various sectors, including:

• Government agencies: Contributing to policy development and program implementation.
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): Engaging in humanitarian assistance, sustainable development, and peacebuilding initiatives.
• Multilateral organizations: Working with international organizations like the United Nations or the World Bank.
• Private sector: Applying development principles in businesses and corporations.

Other:

• The program is offered in a distance and online format, allowing flexibility for students worldwide.
• Massey University is ranked 30th in the world for development studies by the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings.
• The program attracts students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich learning environment.
The program's focus on critical thinking, research skills, and practical application prepares graduates for successful careers in various development-related fields.