Master of Arts in International Development

The MA in International Development focuses on development theory, policy analysis, politics of institutions, relevant research and management skills. The program reflects an approach to development that emphasizes not only economic issues, but also the importance and interrelatedness of sustainable economic and human development, human rights, distributive justice and environmental sustainability. In many courses in the international development curriculum, students focus on linkages among scalar levels-from the most macro-level international institutions and initiatives to the most micro-level agendas and actions taken by communities, firms, families and individuals.

The program also emphasizes the diversity of needs, desires, opportunities and constraints that are experienced by individuals of differing socioeconomic classes, ethnicities and genders, as well as differences among nations and regions. Students are encouraged to understand and address the many power differentials that profoundly influence processes central to sustainable development.

International Development Program overview

We offer flexible and interdisciplinary training in a variety of fields, and our graduates pursue jobs in all areas of foreign policy, non-governmental and multilateral organizations. Students design their own specializations within degree programs and may elect to add graduate certificates in order to further enhance their areas of expertise.

Thanks to small classes, mentored research and experiential learning—and a 95% job placement rate—Korbel students are ultimately employed as change-agents in organizations around the world.