What do development studies entail?

Development studies are designed to focus on improving knowledge and equipping students and professionals with the skills required to work in international development. There is often a focus on development in under-resourced countries and the nature of the global forces which affect their ensuing development. Many courses will focus on development project implementation and coordination, as well as how to monitor and evaluate their effectiveness.  

What are the types of subjects I might study?

Subjects will range from Theories of Development to Development in NGOs. There is often capacity for students to enrol in elective subjects specific to their personal interests.   

At what levels can this be studied?

Development studies can be pursued at many levels - as a short course, a diploma, a masters or a PhD. For more information on these forms of study, please see previous links.  

Where can I study?

There are many places and institutions where you can undertake public health studies or research. Please follow the link to read more about some of these institutions around Australia. 

Who undertakes these studies?

Many professionals and students may pursue development studies with a vested interest in working within the development sector. Prior experience and professional backgrounds will vary - some may be experiencing their first encounter with development issues; others may have prior experience in medicine, law, ethics, economics, project coordination or sociology, and wish to expand upon their knowledge of development issues.  

What future practice & opportunities are available upon completion?

This may include working with non-governmental organisations or within government agencies and other multi-lateral organisations around the world. Organisations such as Oxfam, Red Cross, Australian Volunteers International and TEAR all have active development sectors with projects in many parts of the world. Some graduates will be interested in advocacy work which, similarly, can be pursued through many different organisations. 

What is a Masters of Development?

A Masters of Development often comprises theories surrounding various models of development, but also the policies and practice emanating from these. The competing power dynamics are also studied. Issues such as gender dynamics, health, macro & micro finance, development economics, and global political systems and their influence on development are usually studied in this type of masters program. Programs can take between 1 - 2 years to complete, depending on the institution.

Examples

RMIT - http://www2.rmit.edu.au/Courses/pdf/mc073.pdf
Oxford University - http://www.qeh.ox.ac.uk/courses/mphil

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