The UNSW Master of Development Studies is a two-year, full-time interactive degree that provides specialist studies in international development at the local, national and global level. This degree takes a participatory approach to the philosophy of human rights, social justice and community development.

You’ll learn the framework to understand the complexities of the geopolitical, economic, social, ethical, and cultural contexts in which development takes place. You’ll learn from a team of academics at the front line of international development practice both globally and in Australia, and benefit from real-world experience and expertise.

Key features

Become a global citizen
To be a member of today’s global community means facing and navigating pressing current issues, including forced migration, gender-based violence, human rights violations, global health and disasters. You’ll explore these issues in-depth throughout this postgraduate degree.

Drive positive change
The Master of Development Studies will equip you with the skills and knowledge to make the changes you wish to see in the world. You’ll learn how to understand and negotiate the complexities of our biggest global challenges, and explore how to drive solutions through geopolitical, economic, social, ethical and cultural contexts.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

• Be supported by our diverse, open and inclusive Arts, Design & Architecture community.
• Learn through research-informed teaching
• Prioritise career success – UNSW won the Australian Financial Review’s Most Employable Students Award in 2023.
• Benefit from strong industry links and partnerships
• Access world-class alumni connections
• Join a global top 20 university (QS World University Rankings, 2024)
• Join a community that’s part of the prestigious Group of Eight (Go8) universities