COURSE CURRICULUM

The course-based stream of the Global Development Studies graduate program emphasizes the development of conceptual thinking, analytical skills, and interdisciplinary understanding, without requiring primary research. Students in this stream complete six half courses, totaling 18.0 units, which must include DEVS 801, DEVS 802, DEVS 803, and DEVS 850, ensuring a strong foundation in key areas of global development theory, policy, and practice. In addition to coursework, students undertake a supervised Major Research Project (DEVS 898), typically 50 to 60 pages in length, which is based on secondary research. The project requires students to formulate and answer an interdisciplinary research question directly relevant to contemporary issues in Global Development Studies, allowing them to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines and apply it to practical or policy-oriented problems. Throughout the program, students receive guidance and mentorship from faculty, enabling them to develop critical thinking, research design, and academic writing skills. By combining rigorous coursework with a substantial research project, the course-based stream prepares students for careers in development agencies, policy-making, social enterprise, journalism, media, education, and law, as well as providing a solid foundation for further graduate study. This stream balances intellectual rigor with practical application to equip graduates for impactful professional work.