Development Research Division | South African‐German Centre for Development Research and Criminal Justice

Background

Masters students can do a full thesis, or a course-work Masters. The coursework Masters consist of four graduate modules and a mini-thesis, which report the results of original research.

The Masters degrees can be completed on a part-time or full time basis. A full time Masters course-work degree could be completed in one year, but usually requires at least eighteen months.

The lectures offered by the Institute usually commence after 16h30. In the case of other departments, it may be that courses are not offered after hours.

The teaching methods are designed to be as interactive as possible, emphasizing small group work and using relevant and practical case studies. In addition to formal presentations by ISD staff and invited lecturers, students are presented with class exercises and required to do individual assignments. In most courses emphasis is placed on independent research.

Content

As far as possible the course content will be adapted to the particular concerns of the participants. The ISD Programme in Development Studies intends to equip students with both a theoretical understanding, and with applied knowledge and skills. The individual student can through choosing the appropriate modules, opt for tailor made coursework to suit specific needs and interests. This Programme is of multi-disciplinary nature. Students are encouraged to choose electives from modules listed for other Programmes at the UWC, e.g. for MPA, or at the neighbouring universities or for the Bochum Programme on the UWC campus.

Modules

compulstory:

• DVST 831: Theories of Social Transformation
• DVST 832: Comparative Economic Systems

elective:

• DVST 840: AIDS and Development
• DVST 846: Community Development in Theory and Practice
• DVST 849: Conflict and Diversity Studies
• DVST 808: Development Management
• DVST 836: Education and Development
• DVST 848: Leadership and Social Transformation
• DVST 834: Rural Development
• DVST 831: Social Policy for Developing Countries
• DVST 839: Social Problems and Development
• DVST 841: Social Research Methodology

More information about these courses is available from the section offered courses.