Master in International Development

With this course, students will gain the tools for effective leadership. They’ll be equipped to lead in any role, regardless of formal authority, and in any setting, including political or organizational. Through hands-on activities, students will learn to think on their feet to solve complex social issues, create supportive environments that welcome different viewpoints, devise strategies challenging hidden beliefs, understand group loyalties and conflicts, and establish safe spaces for open discussion and risk-taking, helping to build a flexible and adaptable culture.

This course provides an in-depth understanding of the economic development process. Students learn to apply various tools and frameworks to assess a region's or country's growth trajectory, key growth questions and opportunities for productive diversification. They also identify the most significant constraints to realizing these opportunities. Ultimately, they’ll know how to translate these research findings into actionable policy insights to mitigate or overcome identified constraints. Additionally, students will produce high-quality applied research that informs policy decisions for specific countries and regions.

This course provides a foundational understanding of Human Rights Law and its role in social inclusion and sustainable development. Students cover key concepts, historical developments and their relevance to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. They will also study the Human Rights-Based Approach to development programming and apply it through case studies focused on social inclusion, gender equality and violence prevention. Subsequently, they’ll delve into topics like conflict, migration and children's rights, emphasizing practical experience through testimonies from affected individuals.

The course introduces the use of probability and statistics in the social sciences, particularly in international development. Students will establish firm theoretical foundations that will empower them to confidently construct data analysis models in the second and third terms. They’ll also learn to leverage the quantitative analysis of data to make predictions and evaluate policies for governments, international organizations and NGOs, enhancing their analytical skills and expertise in data-driven decision-making.

This course introduces Results-Based Management (RBM), a framework used by the UN and other organizations to manage projects and programs. Students will master project management techniques for various environments and learn to lead positive change across sectors. They’ll also cover structured problem-solving, performance measurement and strategic planning within the context of RBM. Additionally, they will explore options for financial aid and grant applications. By the end, students will understand key RBM principles and tools, and how to incorporate monitoring and evaluation into their projects.

Explore the evolution of international development theories and policies, with a focus on multi-stakeholder partnerships addressing global challenges. This course examines key actors like governments, NGOs, and the private sector, while addressing topics such as climate change, economic inequality, and technology's role in development. Through case studies and practical examples, students will build skills to critically assess strategies and drive impactful change.

This course will help students understand the practical and theoretical frameworks supporting successful negotiation across cultural boundaries. They will develop essential skills and knowledge in intercultural communication, a necessity in today's globalized world. They’ll learn how to advocate for themselves and their organizations while engaging in strategic negotiations that build enduring, mutually beneficial relationships with diverse stakeholders. Additionally, they’ll examine real-world cases involving governments, multilateral organizations and NGOs to grasp the unique dynamics that shape development cooperation.

The primary goal of this course is to help students understand the role political and economic institutions play in facilitating just, inclusive and effective governance. Students will explore why strong institutions and good governance are crucial ingredients for sustainable development. They’ll also dive into how these critical elements protect the system-wide respect for the human rights principles of non-discrimination, participation, accountability and the rule of law.

The course focuses primarily on risk, a multidimensional, measurable factor that organizations must identify and manage in order to reach their goals. It provides students with an overview of the nature of risk vs. uncertainty. They will learn the methods used to analyze risk systematically and acquire strategies to mitigate it at the individual and organizational levels. Students will also cover strategic foresight tools and how they can be leveraged to improve decision-making.

This course offers students an in-depth exploration of the evolving field of data analysis and its critical role in the development sector. They will understand how rapid advancements in data technologies have created unparalleled opportunities for progress, societal trend analysis and the development of effective strategies. Specifically designed to bridge theory and practice, students will be equipped with essential knowledge and skills for data-driven decision-making in the realm of development.

This course explores the scientific and societal dimensions of key environmental crises, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Students will examine the drivers and impacts of these issues on ecosystems, economies, and human development, using frameworks like planetary boundaries. The course also evaluates global efforts for mitigation, adaptation, and sustainable transitions, emphasizing policy effectiveness and justice. Through collaborative and applied learning, students will develop the tools to address pressing environmental challenges.