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Murdoch University

The Master of Development Studies (MDS) is an exciting practice-oriented degree that prepares students to participate in the world of international aid and global development policy. Students develop the theoretical foundation and the professional skills necessary for rewarding careers in all types of organizations (public, private and not for profit, national and international) engaged in development policy, planning and practice, in Australia and internationally.The MDS concentrates on the relationship between development and issues of contemporary importance, including social and environmental sustainability, international aid policy and management, culture and rights, migration, food and health security, and the role of gender in development challenges. Previous tertiary qualifications combined with relevant professional experience may qualify students for advanced standing, meaning they could complete a Masters qualification in as little as 12 or 18 months. (The 12 and 18 month programs are designed for those already working in the field of international affairs and who are seeking career advancement opportunities. The 2 year program is designed for recent graduates or those seeking a career change.) A student's advanced standing is assessed at the time of application, taking into account level of higher study and/or professional experience. The MDS offers students: A detailed knowledge of the interests, processes and problems of contemporary development agencies, and the field of international aid work, through intensive study in specialist units, High-level analytical skills to evaluate the priorities, strengths and limitations of competing policy approaches to development, developed through the practical investigation of current policy issues, Professional skills in leadership, management, communication, and their application in diverse contexts, Policy electives that provide an understanding of contemporary political, social and cultural trends within the Australian and South East Asian regional context, with a strong emphasis on cross-cultural understanding . Students study core subjects on working in aid, overseas aid and development, the politics of development, development in practice, development and sustainability, and gender and development. Students can choose from a range of electives to suit their professional needs and policy interests. The degree concludes with a 'capstone' experience with students opting to undertake either a policy case study project, a professional internship, or a supervised research thesis.The curriculum, course delivery and assessment are designed to meet the needs of culturally diverse and globally mobile students. All programs are offered in flexible formats, designed to fit into a demanding professional life, with units offered in the evenings, on weekends, or in intensive blocks. Face-to-face classes are augmented by online delivery.
Good general knowledge.
Development of the theoretical foundation and the professional skills necessary for rewarding careers in all types of organizations (public, private and not for profit, national and international) engaged in development policy, planning and practice, in Australia and internationally. Students also study core subjects on working in aid, overseas aid and development, the politics of development, development in practice, development and sustainability, and gender and development.
Admission to the Masters degrees is available to those students who have a Bachelor degree in any area. A student's advanced standing is assessed at the time of application, taking into account level of higher study and/or professional experience.
After completing graduation the students seek membership of a professional organization and are accredited by Australian Computer Society (ACS).
Graduates of the Master of Development Studies degree have the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in local, national, international and transnational development organizations and aid agencies, local and national government and non-government organisations and private sector firms. Development Studies also provides graduates with skills to become more effective administrators, researchers, development planners, educators and managers.
$22,000 (annual tuition fee for 2013 in AUD - 24 pts)
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent(Previous tertiary qualifications combined with relevant professional experience may qualify students for advanced standing, meaning you could complete a Masters qualification in as little as 12 or 18 months.