Master of Arts in Development Studies

The MA in Development Studies at the University of Passau is a four-semester programme that equips students with advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and conceptual frameworks for understanding economic and social development. The curriculum integrates quantitative and qualitative research methods, with a strong emphasis on applying theory through international field research. The programme is organised into four module areas. The Foundation area covers theories of development research and an interdisciplinary development seminar. The Research area includes qualitative and quantitative methods, a research seminar, and development studies colloquia. The Specialisation area requires students to complete at least one module each from three of five core subject groups: Economics, South-East Asian Studies, Sociology and Politics, Sustainability and Resources, and Geographies of Development. The Transfer area includes applied development studies completed either as a supervised research project or an internship. Students may also choose a study focus in South-East Asian Studies, Economics, or Sustainability if they accumulate sufficient credits in the relevant modules; this focus is noted in the final transcript. The programme concludes with a Master's thesis. The programme starts in the winter semester and is based at the University of Passau in Passau, Germany.