MSc in International Development
Interdisciplinary master’s programme exploring global development challenges through politics, economics, and social sciences.
Best for:Best for graduates or professionals with a background in social sciences, economics, or related fields seeking to specialise in global development policy and practice.
Overview
The MSc in International Development at University College Dublin offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding development processes. Students engage with expertise in political economy, economics, agriculture, and social sciences to analyse contemporary global challenges. The programme blends theoretical frameworks with practical insights, preparing graduates for careers in policy, research, and international organisations. It attracts applicants with diverse academic backgrounds and professional experience, fostering a dynamic learning environment. The curriculum emphasises critical thinking and evidence-based solutions to address inequality, governance, and sustainable development worldwide.
What you'll do
- Engage with interdisciplinary coursework covering political economy, economics, agriculture, and social sciences to analyse global development challenges.
- Develop critical research skills to evaluate development policies and their impacts on communities worldwide.
- Participate in case studies and group projects addressing real-world development issues.
- Contribute to discussions and debates on contemporary topics in international development, such as governance, inequality, and sustainability.
- Conduct independent research under faculty supervision, culminating in a dissertation or research project.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty to explore innovative solutions to development problems in diverse contexts.
Requirements
Degree required: A primary degree (Bachelor’s) with at least Second Class Honours Grade 1 (2H1) or equivalent (e.g., 60% or higher, B- or 3.08 GPA in the American system) in a relevant subject such as political science, international relations, economics, sociology, history, geography, or development studies.
Degree offered: MSc in International Development
Language: English; TOEFL 600 (paper-based), IELTS 6.5, or equivalent (e.g., Cambridge English Test Certificate in Advanced English Grade B or Certificate of Proficiency in English Grade C). Exemptions apply for applicants with a previous degree from an English-speaking university.
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to assess development policies and their implications.
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers or reports.
- Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative research methods applicable to social sciences.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English for academic and professional communication.
- Applicants must meet the minimum academic entry requirements (2H1 or equivalent).
- Relevant professional experience may be considered in the application review process.
- Non-EU applicants requiring a visa must apply well in advance (ideally by March) due to processing times.
- Non-EU citizens living in Ireland or the EU must complete the EU Fee Assessment process before application assessment.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-07 (EU applicants) / 2026-08-31 (non-EU applicants) (Europe/Dublin)
Applicants must submit their application online through the University College Dublin Graduate Admissions Portal. Required documents include academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency if applicable. Non-EU applicants requiring a visa should apply as early as possible due to processing delays. The application process considers both academic merit and professional experience.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of purpose or research proposal
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
- Two letters of recommendation (if applicable)
- Passport or ID for non-EU applicants
Contact
UCD Graduate Admissions Office· Admissions Contact
http://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/graduateapplicants/
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