MSc in Development Studies

The Master of Science in Development Studies is an interdisciplinary social science Master’s programme focusing on problems of poverty and development. The objective of the programme is to provide you with background knowledge and practical skills to understand, assess and work in development-related fields, whether in direct poverty reduction or in other aspects of social, economic and institutional development. You will acquire a critical social science approach and will conduct your own research within the context of the Master’s thesis. You will be trained in various social science methods, both qualitative and quantitative. You will also gain general skills like problem-solving, working in teams, cultural understanding, writing independent reports as well as conceptual, analytical and evaluative skills.

The programme offers a wide range of alternatives for you. There are many social science courses within the Faculty of Social Science to provide you with deeper knowledge within your disciplinary background or in other fields beneficial to your research interests. You will be given the chance to take an active part in shaping your education by tailoring your studies to your interests and career goals, especially in the second half of the programme.

There are good opportunities to go abroad and take courses at one of the many universities with which we have exchange agreements. If you wish to work in development-related fields you can also choose to do an internship. Previous students have worked, for example, at embassies spread over the world, in governmental and non-governmental development agencies within the UN and the EU and in various NGOs, and in the private sector.

Programme modules/courses

Courses and number of credits: Theories and Issues in Development (15 credits), Research Methods (15), Historical Aspects of Development (15), Theory of Sciences/Research Methods (15), Master’s degree thesis (30). Elective courses and/or studies abroad, and/or internship (30).

Career prospects

The programme provides you with both the background knowledge and the practical skills needed to work in development-related fields. You will gain a critical understanding of trends and debates within development work. You will be prepared to make contributions to sustainable development in roles such as policymaker or practitioner in government agencies, private firms and NGOs, or alternatively, for doctoral studies and a continued academic career.

Read more about this programme at www.lunduniversity.lu.se/ma-development-studies

Why Lund University?

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is one of northern Europe’s oldest, broadest and finest universities. The University ranks among the world's top 100 universities in the QS World University Rankings 2019 and is the #1 choice for international students coming to Sweden – one of the world's most innovative, sustainable and democratic countries.

If you would like to start building your international network in a global classroom setting, Lund University is a great option. Experience a different way of learning in a country ranked as one of the best in the world at providing higher education. Group work and informal teacher-student relationships facilitate in-depth learning.

The University is located in Lund, a charming and compact university city in southern Sweden, only 35 minutes away from Copenhagen Airport in Denmark. The city is famous for its vibrant student life and is also home to many world-leading research facilities and international companies.

Learn more about Lund University at www.lunduniversity.lu.se