Development studies often aim to prepare students to perform a deep investigation of the developing world. To this end, an academic program in this discipline might engage with any number of issues facing developing economies and societies.

A few universities in the United States have extension programs in various parts of Jamaica. Most of the students who enroll in these part-time programs are working professionals who want to continue their education without having to relocate closer to the nation's Universities. Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean.

The MSc, or Master of Science, is an internationally recognized academic degree that indicates proficiency and knowledge of a given topic or field. Most MSc programs take about four years to finish, after which some join the workforce while others continue on in the classroom.