The Master of Sustainable Development Goals (Global Development) is a specialised postgraduate qualification focused on the theory and practical implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The programme is designed for students who want to address major global issues including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental sustainability, governance, and international development.

The qualification is unique in Australasia and combines:

• Sustainable development theory
• Global development practice
• Environmental and social sustainability
• Indigenous and alternative knowledge systems
• Practical professional experience through a practicum placement

Why Study Global Development – MSDG at Massey University?

Students choose this programme because it offers:

•  Strong focus on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Unique interdisciplinary sustainability qualification
• Practical professional practicum experience
• Flexible online and distance learning options
• Exposure to international development and sustainability frameworks
• Integration of Indigenous and alternative development perspectives
• Real-world problem-solving approach
• Strong relevance to international NGOs and development agencies
• Opportunity to complete practicum in New Zealand or home country

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The programme combines sustainable development theory with applied global development practice.

Core Sustainable Development Courses

Students study:

• Sustainable development theories
• UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Multidisciplinary sustainability frameworks
• SDG measurement and evaluation
• Indigenous knowledge systems and sustainability

Global Development Specialisation Courses

Rethinking Development

Topics include:

• Development theories
• International development paradigms
• Contemporary development practice

Development Management

Focuses on:

• Development programme planning
• Project implementation
• Monitoring and evaluation
• Development policy frameworks

Gender and Development

Students explore:

• Gender equality
• Human rights
• Empowerment
• Education and health inequalities

Globalisation and Development

Topics include:

• Migration
• Tourism
• Conflict and post-conflict societies
• Global economic systems

Reframing Human-Nature Relationships in Environmental Planning

Students study:

• Sustainable resource management
• Environmental planning
• Biophysical systems management

Environmental Sociology

Focuses on:

• Society and environment interactions
• Consumerism
• Environmental politics
• Resource limits and sustainability

International Relations: Theory and Practice

Topics include:

• International governance
• Diplomacy
• Global political systems
• International cooperation

Practicum Component

Sustainable Development Goals Practicum

Students complete:

• 320 hours of professional work experience
• Applied SDG implementation project
• Critical analysis linked to sustainability literature

Practicum opportunities may be completed:

•  In New Zealand
• In the student’s home country
• Within the student’s current workplace (where approved)

Topics and Areas of Study

Students may explore:

• Sustainable Development
• International Development
• Environmental Sustainability
• Climate Change
• Development Policy
• Gender and Development
• Environmental Sociology
• Indigenous Sustainability Frameworks
• International Relations
• Human Rights
• Globalisation
• Resource Planning
• SDG Monitoring and Evaluation
• Community Development

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Within the Master of Sustainable Development Goals, Massey University offers specialisations related to sustainability and development practice.

The Global Development endorsement focuses on:

•  International development systems
• Sustainability implementation
• Environmental governance
• Social justice and inequality
• Global policy and planning

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in:

•  International Development Agencies
• NGOs and Non-Profit Organisations
• Sustainability Consulting
• Government Policy and Planning
• Environmental Management
• Humanitarian Organisations
• Corporate Sustainability
• Community Development
• International Relations and Diplomacy
• Development Project Management
• Research and Policy Analysis
• Social Impact Organisations

Highlights of the Programme

• Unique SDG-focused master’s qualification
• Strong practical sustainability focus
• Flexible online and distance learning
• Professional practicum experience
• Interdisciplinary curriculum
• Indigenous and alternative development perspectives
• Real-world global development applications
• Suitable for international and working professionals

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Students should note:

•  Progression to practicum requires a B grade average in Part One.
• Practicum placement approval is required.
• International students may complete practicum in their home country or New Zealand.
• Some courses may not be offered every semester.
• Returning students should review transitional regulations for curriculum updates.

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying in New Zealand generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Offer of place from Massey University
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency evidence

Students should also review:

•  Part-time work rights during study
• Post-study work visa eligibility
• Health and character requirements under New Zealand immigration policies