Master of Architectural Science (Research)
Victoria University of Wellington, based in New Zealand, offers a comprehensive Master ...
Master of Science - Development Studies
Wellington
INTAKE: Jul & Feb
Program Overview
Victoria University of Wellington offers a rigorous Master of Science program in Development Studies, combining coursework and a thesis. This program is designed to provide students with a profound understanding of global development challenges and strategies to address them.
Curriculum: The Master of Science in Development Studies program at Victoria University of Wellington covers a broad range of interdisciplinary courses. These include topics such as global political economy, social development, environmental sustainability, governance, public policy, and cultural perspectives on development. The coursework emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical approaches to understanding and tackling development issues.
Research Focus: Central to this program is the integration of research methodologies into the curriculum. Students undertake a thesis project, allowing them to conduct in-depth research on a specialized area within development studies. This research focus enables students to explore critical issues, contribute new knowledge, and propose practical solutions relevant to global development challenges.
Industry Engagement: Victoria University of Wellington fosters strong connections between students and the development sector. Through collaborations with NGOs, government agencies, international organizations, and development practitioners, students gain valuable insights and practical experience through internships, fieldwork, and collaborative projects. This engagement ensures students acquire firsthand experience and understand the complexities of working in the development field.
Global Perspective: The Master of Science in Development Studies program emphasizes a global perspective in analyzing development issues. The curriculum incorporates international case studies, comparative analyses of development strategies across regions, and opportunities for students to engage in global research collaborations or participate in international fieldwork. This global approach fosters a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and approaches to development worldwide.
Location
Wellington
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
NZD 40450
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs usually need a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The entry requirement may specify a minimum score of 60% or higher in the previous academic degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no individual section below 20.
- PTE: Overall score of 58, with a minimum of 50 in each section.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Victoria University of Wellington offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options specifically designed to support international students pursuing their academic endeavors. These scholarships are aimed at assisting students in covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in New Zealand.
International Scholarships: The university provides a range of merit-based scholarships for outstanding international students entering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. These scholarships often consider academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Several faculties within the university offer their own scholarships tailored to specific fields of study. These awards recognize excellence in particular disciplines and may support international students pursuing degrees within those faculties.
Research Grants and Fellowships: For postgraduate students engaging in research, Victoria University offers research grants and fellowships to support their projects. These grants can cover research expenses, conference participation, or living stipends during the research period.
Study Abroad and Exchange Scholarships: International students participating in study abroad or exchange programs facilitated by Victoria University can access scholarships to assist with travel expenses, accommodation, and other study-related costs during their exchange period.
Government and External Scholarships: Additionally, international students may be eligible for scholarships offered by the New Zealand government, international organizations, and external funding bodies. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application procedures.
Graduates from Victoria University of Wellington's Master of Science in Development Studies program possess a diverse skill set, enabling them to pursue rewarding career paths across various sectors involved in global development.
Development Policy Analyst: Many graduates secure roles as development policy analysts, working with governmental bodies, international organizations, or NGOs. They analyze policies, assess their impact on development, and provide recommendations for effective strategies.
Project Manager/Coordinator: Graduates may become project managers or coordinators in development projects. They plan, execute, and monitor projects aimed at addressing social, economic, or environmental issues in different communities or regions.
Researcher/Analyst in Think Tanks or Research Institutes: For those inclined towards research, careers in think tanks or research institutes await. Graduates can work as researchers or analysts, conducting in-depth studies, generating reports, and providing insights into pressing development issues.
International Development Consultant: Some graduates opt to work as consultants, offering expertise to various stakeholders including governments, NGOs, or businesses. They provide strategic advice, develop programs, and offer solutions to enhance development efforts.
Social Impact Assessment Specialist: Individuals may specialize in social impact assessment roles. They evaluate the potential impact of development initiatives on communities, ensuring they are sustainable and address local needs.
Humanitarian Aid Worker: Graduates interested in providing direct assistance in crisis situations may work as humanitarian aid workers. They collaborate with NGOs or international agencies, delivering aid and support in regions affected by conflicts, disasters, or crises.
Advocacy and Campaign Officer: Careers in advocacy and campaigning for development-related causes are also common. Graduates work for NGOs or advocacy groups, raising awareness and influencing policies to promote positive changes in development practices.
Academic/Professor in Development Studies: Some graduates pursue academic careers, becoming professors or lecturers in universities or educational institutions. They teach and conduct research, nurturing future professionals in the field of development studies.
