Master of Development Studies

UNSW's Master of Development Studies builds theoretical knowledge and practical skills to analyse and address major global development challenges, grounded in participatory, rights-based and community-centred approaches that draw on the expertise of local communities rather than imposing external solutions. Students build critical understanding of forced migration, gender-based violence, human rights, global health, disaster justice, food insecurity, environmental governance and climate change, taught by academics with genuine practical development experience locally and internationally. The program develops transferable skills in critical analysis, policy formulation and advocacy, preparing students to engage meaningfully with affected communities at local, national and global levels while accessing development industry networks. It suits students who want to work in international development, humanitarian response, or policy roles addressing global inequality, rather than a purely academic study of development theory.