6 Online Development Studies MA Degree Programs

The Master of Arts in Gender and Development offered by UPEACE, jointly with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), aims to equip students with critical knowledge about gender studies in its intersections with development studies. Gain the skills to advance gender equality with this graduate program focused on the crucial role of women in diplomacy and development.

It aims at professionalizing those already working in development or others for whom an e-learning program seems most fitting. It offers a solid academic base in the field of development studies. Students learn relevant theories that are necessary to critically reflect current practices in the field of humanitarian and development aid. Courses such as project planning, monitoring and evaluation advance students’ practical competencies. Academic competencies taught in the area of research methods and writing skills enable a continuation of a scientific career.

The Master of Arts in Development Studies and Diplomacy, offered by UPEACE in collaboration with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), is an interdisciplinary program designed to enhance students' understanding of development, sustainability, and diplomacy while equipping them with essential soft skills for a successful international career. Offered online, the curriculum explores various dimensions of development—environmental, social, economic, and human—along with contemporary diplomatic practices. Students will benefit from skills development and coaching sessions tailored to enhance their professional prospects across diverse sectors, including governments, international organizations, and academia. Additionally, participants can opt for a field visit to Geneva or The Hague, providing a unique immersion in the realms of diplomacy and international law.

The Master of Arts in Development Studies and Diplomacy is an interdisciplinary and holistic program that will not only broaden student’s knowledge in the field of development studies, sustainability, and diplomacy but it will also equip them with the required soft skills for a successful international career in any of these areas of expertise. It is offered both online and face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in Costa Rica. During this program, students will analyze the different dimensions of development including, environmental, social, economic, and human dimensions as well as the theory and practice of diplomacy in the 21st century. Students will also attend skills development sessions that are designed to support their professional careers and employability. Careers in this field can be very broad. Prospective employers include governments, international organizations, development agencies, academia, and the private sector.

The Master of Arts in Gender and Development (hybrid) is a graduate programme that offers critical knowledge in gender studies in its intersections with development studies. In addition, this programme equips students with the required soft skills for a successful international career in this field.

The Program is designed to focus on key issues in policy for population and human development ranging from demography, population aging, migration, resources, and environment relating to population changes, and public policy design.