Master's International Development Studies
Do you often wonder why it remains so hard to tackle global challenges such as poverty, inequality and environmental degradation? Are you intrigued by topics like migration, climate justice and social unrest? If so, join the MSc in International Development Studies and learn how to contribute to a more just and sustainable future.
The world around us is constantly evolving, and so is our understanding of development and processes of change. In this two-year MSc programme, you learn to study these processes in a critical and reflexive manner, acknowledging the dilemmas and complexities that are inherently part of development theories and policies. Tailor your programme to your personal interests and delve into themes like political change, food security, disasters, natural resource depletion, and inclusive development.
Why this programme?
- Offers you interactive learning with highly skilled and accessible staff on current development themes.
- Trains you to critically examine development processes through a multi-disciplinary lens, strengthening your ability to propose effective solutions.
- Helps you to develop theoretical as well as practical skills while you undertake your own thesis research (and possibly fieldwork), participate in a real-life consultancy project and perform an academic internship.
- Prepares you to work in a diverse range of job, such as a project coordinator, researcher or (policy) advisor at an NGO, governmental organization or company.
Study programme of MSc International Development Studies
This is a two-year programme that includes a variety of courses, a hands-on consultancy project, a thesis and an internship.
If you want to know more, check the Programme of International Development Studies, visit one of our (virtual) open days and contact the study adviser or student ambassador.
Specialisations
Within the master's programme you can choose one of the following specialisations to meet your personal interests.
- Sociology of Development
- Economics of Development
- Inclusive Innovation, Communication and Development
- Politics and Governance of Development
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Application and admission
Interested in taking part in the Master International Development Studies? Find out more about the specific Admission requirements and the application procedures.
Did you do a bachelor’s in Technical Sciences, Life Sciences or (relevant) Management Sciences? Chances are high that you are not admissible to the master’s in International Development Studies (MID). However, WUR also offers the master's in Development and Rural Innovation (MDR). MID and MDR are sister programmes, designed for different target groups. MDR is specifically designed for students who haven’t done a bachelor’s in Social Sciences or Economics, but would like to do a master's in Social Sciences with an emphasis on International Development. Please check the admission criteria for both study programmes to see what applies to you.
Student experiences
The best way to get to know a place is by getting to know the people. Students share their experiences with you about the master's programme and student life in Wageningen on the page Student experiences.
I can picture myself working in challenging places in the world. I grew up with a lot of privileges in Europe and it’s crucial for me to be aware of what’s happening outside this bubble.
Future career
Graduates of this master programme end up in a broad range of jobs, being able to work in diverse setting with people from all kinds of backgrounds. For example, you can work in a government institution, NGO, private company or university. Interested to learn more? Please browse through our Career booklet and read stories of alumni.