Master of Development Policy

The Master of Development Policy at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management is offered in Sejong, South Korea, taught in English, running from February 2027 to August 2028, with a start date in September 2026. Development policy studies the economic, social, and institutional factors that shape growth and welfare in developing and transitioning economies. Coursework typically covers development economics, poverty reduction strategies, institutional reform, and program evaluation methods, drawing on case studies of countries that have undergone rapid economic transformation. Students often analyze policy interventions in areas such as education, health, infrastructure, and trade, learning to assess their effectiveness using quantitative and qualitative research tools. Graduates of development policy programs pursue careers as policy analysts, program officers, and advisors within government ministries, international development organizations, and non-governmental organizations working on economic and social development. Others take research positions at think tanks or continue into doctoral study in economics or public policy. Given South Korea's own history of rapid development, the program draws on domestic policy experience alongside broader comparative and international perspectives. Delivered in English, the program is designed for a mix of international and domestic students working in government, international organizations, or development-focused careers, studying policy design and evaluation within a public policy school setting in Sejong.