Overview

The Development Studies M.Sc. at York University provides students with a sophisticated understanding of the complex issues surrounding sustainable human development in a globalised context. This academic programme is deeply rooted in the institution's core values of social justice, equality, democracy, and environmental sustainability. Students gain a solid grounding in the practical processes and contemporary discourses that define the modern field of international development.

The curriculum is designed to integrate critical theoretical exploration with professional practice, ensuring graduates are prepared for the realities of global shifts. Participants can choose between completing a formal thesis or a major research paper supplemented by an elective course.

Why Development Studies at York University?

York University offers a distinctive approach by blending academic excellence with real-world application through a required field work component. Students benefit from a variety of international internships and volunteer opportunities that provide practical experience in the sector. The programme is specifically structured for those currently working in the field or those aspiring to enter it, offering a robust foundation in international development practices.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 6275 per semester
National fee: CAD 1436 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Sustainable Human Development
International Development
Globalisation
Social Justice and Equality
Development Theory
Research Methods

Careers with Development Studies

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for diverse roles within the international development sector, working for non-governmental organisations, governmental agencies, and international bodies. The curriculum serves as an excellent foundation for professional practice in the field or for those intending to pursue a specialised doctoral programme. The focus on practical field work and research ensures that students possess the competitive skills required for global development careers.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Conceptual Foundations for Development

Research Methods for Development

Critical Reflections on Field Work

Cultural Politics of Development

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 30 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

140

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TOEFL^® IBT

OR

100

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

76

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

7.5

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Credits

60 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Toronto, Canada

Disciplines

International Development View 15 other Masters in International Development in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

B

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

140

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

100

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

76

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Admission to the Masters Program in Development Studies requires that applicants meet the standard maintained by the Faculty of Graduate Studies, currently a B average.

In addition, applicants must:

have a completed honours degree (with B average or equivalent) in a relevant humanities, social science, or related applied program;
submit a recent research paper or report to demonstrate your writing and research skills. The paper should be anywhere between 15 and 25 pages in length, double-spaced;
submit a two-page statement of interest providing evidence of commitment to advanced work in studies in development.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at York University and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

12550 CAD / year

≈ 12550 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

2872 CAD / year

≈ 2872 CAD / year

Living costs

Toronto

Canada

1502 - 2563 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Development Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Toronto

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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