International Development University College Dublin

Overview

The International Development programme at University College Dublin offers a sophisticated interdisciplinary framework for understanding the complex processes of global change. This Master of Science degree integrates diverse perspectives from politics, economics, and agriculture to address the most pressing challenges facing the modern world. Students are encouraged to adopt a critical yet constructive approach to development issues while gaining the practical skills necessary for professional practice.

Why International Development at University College Dublin?

University College Dublin hosts the oldest and largest School of Politics and International Relations in Ireland, boasting over 150 years of academic excellence. The faculty is world-renowned, with experts drawn from numerous countries providing a truly global perspective. The school is consistently ranked within the top 100 worldwide in the QS rankings for politics, ensuring students receive an education of the highest international standard. Furthermore, the university is deeply committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, ranking 47th globally for sustainability, which provides a unique environment for those dedicated to social equity and climate action.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: EUR 22600 per year
• European fee: EUR 10350 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide both foundational knowledge and specialised expertise through a combination of core requirements and elective choices. Modules may include:

• Politics of Development
• Statistics
• Gender and Development
• Qualitative Research Methods for Political Science
• Thesis
• Political Risk and Foreign Direct Investment
• Poverty, Development and Global Justice
• Peace & Conflict Studies
• International Political Economy

Careers with International Development

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for diverse professional paths in the public and private sectors. Many alumni have secured influential roles within the official Irish aid programme and prominent international non-governmental organisations such as Oxfam, Goal, Trocaire, and Action Aid. The degree also serves as a gateway to careers within the European Union and United Nations agencies.

Beyond international aid, graduates find success in various fields including public administration, journalism, and media. The programme's strong emphasis on research and the completion of a dissertation makes it particularly suitable for those aiming for careers in academic institutions or policy research. Other common destinations include civil society organisations, the voluntary sector, and local community development initiatives.