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B.A. in Development Studies
M.A./Post Grad Dip. in Development StudiesM.A. in Drylands Policy and Climate Change AdaptationUnderstanding DevelopmentEast Africa ProgrammeKODE & D-Talk
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Duration: 2 years.

Location: Kimmage Development Studies Centre, Ireland, and MS-TCDC, Tanzania.

Award: BA Degree, a Level 7 award in the Irish National Framework of Qualifications
(www.nfq.ie).

Who is this programme for? <back>

This programme is targeted at those working in the community and voluntary sector in Ireland and abroad, staff within NGO and community based organisations, members of groups concerned with development, or those who have a keen interest and commitment to local, national and international development issues.

What is this programme about? <back>

This programme aims to promote an understanding of the holistic development of the person in the community and to provide specialised training for development practitioners. It explores the dimensions of the human, economic, political and social aspects of theories of change and aims to increase participants awareness of development, justice and poverty issues at local and global levels. It encourages dialogue on development experiences in a variety of contexts in Ireland and internationally.

What you will get from this programme <back>

Learning – a critical understanding of contemporary development issues at local, national and international levels, through participation in courses such as:

  • Economic Development
  • Environment and Development
  • Political Studies
  • Sociology of Development
  • Gender and Development
  • Cultural Anthropology

Skills – in development planning, organisation and management, group facilitation and community development processes, through participation in courses such as:

  • Project Planning and Management
  • Community Development
  • Adult Education
  • Leadership and Group Dynamics 
  • Human Development
  • Conflict Management

Research Knowledge and Experience – As part of the 2 year programme participants undertake an applied social research project in a chosen specialised area in the development field, as well as gain experience from  a development related work placement. 

Course Delivery - courses are delivered through participatory methods, enabling participants to understand the complexities of development and to critically reflect on their experience.

Inter-Cultural Learning Environment - the opportunity to build long lasting relationship
and friendships with a dynamic and diverse group of committed people.

Schedule <back>

The BA programme is a 180 credit Level 7 award, run over a two year cycle, but in three ‘stages'.

Stage 1: Following acceptance to the programme, but before commencing course work learners 'prior learning' (both certified and experiential) and their progression eligibility is formally assessed. The KDSC will then allocate credit towards an award, accordingly, should a candidate’s demonstrable prior learning satisfy, or be a sufficiently good match to, the intended learning outcomes of Stage 1 to justify progression.

For more information on KDSC policy and procedures with regard to Recognition of Prior Learning, click on the following link:

Statement of KDSC policies and procedures with regard to the recognition of prior learning

Core taught course work (Stage 2) is then completed in the first academic year, which runs from September to May. In year 2 (Stage 3) participants engage in an applied research project on a topic in the development field (preferably related to their work) and are required to write up a final integration paper. As part of the second year is structured for off- campus modules, physical attendance at KDSC is not essential.

Successful completion of the course earns participants an Ordinary BA Degree in Development Studies, accredited by the HETAC, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council. This is a 180 credit, Level 7, award, within the Irish National Framework of Qualifications.

Part Time Study
For students unable to participate full-time, it is possible to attend individual subjects on a part-time basis and obtain internationally recognised course credits, which can be accumulated over time to realise a full award. Further details of this Accumulation of Credits and Certification of Subjects scheme (ACCS) are available from the Applications Office.

Kimmage DSC also offers the choice of taking individual BA subject courses at night, subject to demand.

Course Content <back>

Click on any of the subjects below to see a course outline:

Expected Outcomes <back>

By the end of the programme, participants will:

  • Have gained a broad understanding of key development issues related to development theory and practice.
  • Have an ability to understand development concepts and practices in light of current development thinking and experience.
  • Have demonstrated ability to utilise a select range of analytical skills and practical tools relevant to development.
  • Be able to assess the appropriate value of different approaches and models of development.
  • Be able to use appropriate resources/skills in a broad development work context.
    Be responsible for the implementation of specific areas of work within development and the wider community.

Assessment <back>

Continuous assessment of essays, participation in seminars and projects, and final written examinations comprise the bulk of the assessment. In year two participants are required to write up a final integration paper based on their findings of their applied research project.

Entry Requirements <back>

Applicants to the BA Degree should normally have evidence of at least two years education or training at third-level from a recognised institute,  in a related subject area (for example a  Level 6 National Certificate, or Diploma, in disciplines such as International Development, Community Development, Social Studies, Social Work, Rural Development, Nursing), as well as some level of prior work experience (voluntary and / or professional) in a development related area.

Candidates without the usual entry requirements may be considered for admission on the basis of relevant work experience and an assessment of their prior learning to ensure their suitability for a programme of study which is essentially the second and third year of an ordinary BA Degree. Students of mature years (23+) are especially welcome. Some vacancies will be available to those wishing to commence a career in development work. This programme may also suit those taking a sabbatical or career break.

Funding <back>

Kimmage DSC are not able to offer any direct scholarships for this programme. Responsibility for securing financial support rests with the applicant.  The College may be able to advise on possible funding opportunities after an applicant has submitted his or her details and once we have a better idea of their current residence and work context.

The BA programme offered by Kimmage DSC is recognised by the Department of Education in Ireland  for the purpose of Higher Education Grants. Note that this is applicable to Irish based students only and does not apply to international students resident outside Ireland. For more information on HEGs see: http://www.studentfinance.ie or contact your local authority / County Council.

Career Opportunities and Further Study <back>

Graduates of the BA programme have been successful in pursuing careers within international development, community development and development education sectors.

A number of former BA students have successfully used the BA award as a stepping stone to further studies at Honours Degree and MA levels.

BA in Tanzania <back>

The BA Degree in Development Studies programme is also run through the MS-TCDC Centre in Arusha, Tanzania. For further information contact:
MS-TCDC, P.O. Box 254, Arusha, Tanzania
Tel: +255 27 2553472
E-Mail: mstcdc@mstcdc.or.tz
Web: www.mstcdc.or.tz

Application Forms & Downloads <back>

apply now!

Downloadable Application Form (.doc)
Online Contact Us Form
Additional BA Portfolio Form (.doc)
B.A. in Development Studies Brochure (.pdf)
Downloadable Reference Form (.doc)
Downloadable Visa Requirements (.doc)
Course Fees (EU) (.pdf)
Course Fees (Non-EU) (.pdf)

Further Information <back>

For further information, please contact:

Admissions Office,
Kimmage DSC,
Kimmage Manor,
Whitehall Road,
Dublin 12, Ireland
Tel: +353-1-4064386
E-mail: info@kimmagedsc.ie

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