Faculty of Business and Economics

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MASTER OF DEVELOPMENT STUDIES (MDS) (BY COURSEWORK - 42 CREDITS)

The Master of Development Studies is a multidisciplinary programme that sets to provide solid grounding in development from theoretical, conceptual, historical and contemporary perspectives, as well as a good grasp of empirical research, policy analysis, and development in practice particularly applicable to development scholars, practitioners and policymakers. The programme exposes students to development theories and a wide range of topics related to development. The students are also trained to conduct research in development studies.

Postgraduate Handbook
MASTER OF DEVELOPMENT STUDIES MINI HANDBOOK 2025-2026
"REMINDER: Please take note that students are required to register for courses with the course code as stated in the handbook by respective cohort intake."

Should you wish to refer to the handbook from a previous session, kindly scroll down and select the 'Handbook' tab

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

The MDS programme equips students with a practical set of skills that extend beyond the traditional development sector. Graduates of our programme pursue fulfilling careers across a spectrum of sectors, including:

International and Governmental Organizations: Contributing to global development efforts through roles in institutions such as the United Nations, World Bank, and government agencies.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Working on the frontlines of development, implementing projects and programs to uplift communities worldwide.
Commercial Businesses: Integrating social responsibility and sustainability (ESG) practices into corporate strategies, fostering positive change alongside profitability.
Research Institutes: Conducting groundbreaking research to inform policies, programs, and practices aimed at tackling complex developmental challenges.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

4 CORE COURSES (24 Credits)

Research Methodology
Research Project
Development Theory and Practice
Globalization and Development
Sociology of Development

At least 18 credit of the following optional courses:

Social Protection
Political Economy
Public Policy Analysis
Social Policy and Development
Planning and Community Development
Applied Econometrics
Poverty and Inequality
Gender Issues In Development
Climate Change and Development
Environmental Sustainability In Organisations
Sustainable Finance
Entrepreneurship And Innovation For Development
Institutions and Industrial Development

*Optional Courses offered in each semester may vary from semester to semester

ENTRY REQUIREMENT

Entry Requirement (Malaysian & International)

PROGRAMME FEE

Malaysian & International

BROCHURE

HANDBOOK

List of Handbooks

PROGRAMME COORDINATOR

Dr. Muhammad Hilmi Abdul Rahman
mhilmiar@um.edu.my

CONTACT US

Marketing Unit
Ground Floor, Azman Hashim Building,
Faculty of Business and Economics,
Universiti Malaya,
50603 Kuala Lumpur,
MALAYSIA
Tel : +603-7967 3918 / 3820
Email: umfbe_mac@um.edu.my

APPLY NOW

Apply Now

NOTE: Before you begin the online application process, please ensure that you meet ALL of the entry requirements for your preferred degree. You are required to upload ALL original evidence in the online application. Incomplete applications will not be processed. The Faculty does not issue a conditional offer letter to applicants. The University processing fee is not refundable.

Master of Development Studies (MDS)