Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)
Global Development Studies Master of science
As, Norway
MSc
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Aug 2026
STUDY FORMAT
Key Summary
About: NMBU’s Master of Science in Global Development Studies is a 2-year full-time, English-taught 120 study points programme. It examines globalization and social, political and economic change with core courses in development theory, policy, research methods and poverty. Electives include field courses, internships and practicum. The Master’s thesis (30 or 60 points) is written in the final semester.
Career Outcomes: Graduates can work in international development, policy analysis, research or environmental planning. Employers include development agencies, multilateral organisations and NGOs. The programme builds skills in research, policy design, data analysis and stakeholder engagement for roles in global development and sustainability.
The program focuses on global social, political and economic change. The degree provides a critical understanding of the history and current dynamics of globalization, and its impact on societies and environments.
The degree is organized as a full-time program over a 2-year period with 120 study points. All teaching is in English, minimum requirements regarding English qualifications must be met. The degree consists of a series of courses including a Master’s thesis (30 or 60 points).
Students are encouraged to write their thesis on the basis of research carried out in ‘field’ conditions in developing or developed countries.
The first year consists of course work covering development theory and policy, research methodology, poverty, plus a range of elective subjects. Students design an individual study plan for the degree during the first semester, with the thesis usually written in the final Spring semester.
Field courses, internships and practicum provide valuable practical experience and are offered as electives. Compulsory courses can be waived for students with a strong background in the subject.
