International development masters programs are ideal for those interested in all aspects of eliminating global poverty, including improving health and education services, creating a sustainable food supply, developing economic institutions, and promoting safety, human rights, and rule of law. International development studies offer a solid foundation in several disciplines, such as political science, sociology, and economic management. International development is usually offered as a concentration within a broader international relations program, or a stand-alone graduate program. Both options, however, have specific requirements. Here is a look at some examples of courses and curricula.
International Development Curriculum and Courses
A master’s degree in international development covers multiple disciplines and requires students to complete core courses, analytical courses and concentration courses. Each course focuses on subjects ranging from economics and ecology, to policy analysis and theory — which will sharpen writing, analytical, policymaking, and management skills. In most cases, students must also study a foreign language to improve cross-cultural communication skills.
When considering international development graduate programs, it’s important to note that concentration courses vary per program but may cover the following topics: global health, politics of environmental issues, and economic development. Students can also choose to focus on women and development, natural resources and the environment, and international education. Core courses cover the fundamentals of history and theory of international development, and students learn how to evaluate social structures, institutions, inequalities, and development policies.
Every program varies in scope and subject matter, so it’s essential that individuals thoroughly research each institution to find the most suitable curriculum.
Pursing a Career in International Development
Indeed, there are many opportunities in the international development world and figuring out which opportunity to pursue can be a challenge. It’s important to refine each job search that best aligns with individual interests.
Similar to concentration courses, there are different types of development, such as economic and democratic institution building, and each relates to different careers within organizations, such as civil society organizations, bilateral organizations and research institutions. For example, an organization that deals with sustainable development may have job listings ranging from engineers to accountants to administrators, while a humanitarian aide organization may have job opportunities for doctors and public relations specialists.
International Development Career Options
Here are a few examples of international development organizations that offer a variety of job opportunities in the field. The following examples can be used as a starting point for a preliminary job search.
United States Agency for International Development — USAID is one of the biggest international development organizations in the public sector; they deal with all aspects of international development, from food security to human rights to global health. USAID has offices around the globe and hires individuals with many different skill sets.
United Nations Development Programme — The UNDP also works in all aspects of international development. They aim to reach the Millennium Development Goals, including eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, promoting gender equality, and achieving universal primary education.
World Health Organization — Another branch of the United Nations, WHO is dedicated to being a leader on global health issues. Job opportunities at WHO range from medical doctors to public relations officers, with employees stationed around the world.
International development is a multi-disciplinary subject that addresses social, environmental and political issues that have a global economic impact. Those who are interested in contributing to a greater quality of life for people living within the developing world and hope to enable sustainable growth in the world’s most at-risk nations will find international development a fulfilling field to be in.
