Masters in International Development teach students how to seek solutions for social and economic problems like inequality, poverty, healthcare, or human rights. Masters in International Development are multidisciplinary studies that make use of concepts from Sociology, Political Science, Resource Management, or Economics and use them to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable or disadvantaged communities both in developed and underdeveloped countries.
You should study a Master's degree in International Development if you are passionate about worthwhile causes, are a great project manager, you are willing to educate others to improve their lives and plan to work for an NGO or to start one. You will need a lot of dedication and strong willpower in order to advocate for causes that enact change and overcome diverse challenges along the way.
While studying an International Development Master's degree, you can specialise in areas such as Small Enterprise Development, Globalization, Political Economy, Development Economics, Community Development, Development policy, and more. Masters in International Development usually take 2 years to complete and are offered as M.A. degrees (Masters of Arts) or M.Sc. degrees (Masters of Science), for more technically-oriented graduate courses.
International Development Master's courses aim to prepare students for implementing long-term sustainable solutions for problems faced by communities. In order to do this, universities provide a diverse set of advanced classes meant to act as a toolbox for future graduates including notions such as: Policy Analysis, Humanitarian Assistance, International Education, Technology and Development, Social Assessment, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Conflict Resolution, Infrastructure, or Emergency Preparedness.
Students will build most of their skills through coursework, volunteer work and internships. Students will develop great communication skills in order to be able to explain complex issues, project management skills and will likely need to learn at least one major foreign language. Future graduates will also need to develop teaching and facilitator skills, as a lot of their responsibilities will be to teach others how to help themselves with limited resources at their disposal. You will develop a broad overview of how different factors play a role in societies.
Graduates work with NGOs and governments to fight corruption, reach trade agreements, develop infrastructure, broker peace agreements and more. Work in advocacy, diplomacy, marketing, economics, fund raising, education, analysis and consultancy, or public health. Cooperate with NGOs, charities, lobbies, governments, big businesses and global organizations like the United Nations.
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Not sure if International Development is for you?
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Read more about studying abroad in NetherlandsCan you handle the weather in Netherlands?
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