:format(webp)/799x0:4001x3202/prod01/channel_5/courses/media/maynooth/content-assets/course-images/Branded20Jumper.jpg)
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Qualification
- Postgraduate Diploma
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MH53N
- Award Type and NFQ level
- POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA (9)
- Study Mode
- Part time
- Closing Date
- 27 August 2027
Overview
The Postgraduate Diploma in International Development (part-time) is a taught postgraduate programme delivered through a combination on-campus delivery and online learning. Learners typically take between 2-3 years (maximum) to complete all requirements. Learners who enroll on the Postgraduate Diploma can transfer to the MA in International Development at a later date should they wish to do so, and will get credit for any modules already completed.
The Postgraduate Diploma is designed to prepare learners for work in international development in a community, local government, youth/adult education, or NGO setting. It offers learners an opportunity to explore contemporary theories of social change and development and to critically analyse development policies and practices. It builds skills, especially in relation to critical reflection, research, leadership and working with groups and in the planning, management and evaluation of development projects.
It is aimed at advanced level learners who hold a primary degree or equivalent qualifications and who have experience of working in a development context in Ireland or in other countries in the Global North or South. Particularly welcome are leaders, facilitators and managers of community development projects, government and development agency staff, people involved in pastoral ministry, researchers, development educators, volunteers and activists. This course is also relevant to academics in the countries of the Global South engaged in teaching and research in international development. Places are also retained for recent graduates who wish to study further before embarking on a career in development work.
Commences: The Postgraduate Diploma in International Development programme will commence in September.
Part-time learners are encouraged to register at that time, but can start modules at different times of the year based on module availability.
Course structure
Duration: 2 to 4 years part-time/flexible and distance learning
60 ECTS credits are required to complete the full Postgraduate Diploma in International Development (part-time). PG Diploma learners must complete four compulsory taught modules (35 credits in total) - Contemporary Global Issues, Challenges and Responses (or Introduction to Development Theory and Practice), Critical Learning and Participatory Development Practice, Gender, Identity and Inclusion and Research Methods - as well as choose from a number of elective modules to make up the remaining 25 credits. These address subjects such as: conflict, development and security, political economy of environment and development, managing development organisations, results-based management, anthropology and development and global food systems. Learners who enroll on the Postgraduate Diploma can transfer to the 90-credit MA in International Development at a later date should they wish to do so, and will get credit for any modules already completed.
Delivery Options
A flexible approach to delivery is offered with students studying through a combination of on-campus delivery and online learning. Please note that as some modules require on-campus attendance this programme is only suitable for part time learners who are either resident in Ireland or who can travel to Ireland to attend certain modules as timetabled. It is not possible to complete the full PG Diploma programme entirely online.
A flexible approach to on-campus delivery is also taken with some courses offered through 2.5 hour taught classes over 8 - 10 weeks, and others offered through more concentrated blocks of time, depending on timetable requirements and arrangements. Online learning is structured to allow learners to study at their own pace over a semester and it includes some face-to-face interaction as well as structured materials and discussions online.
Learning Approach
The Department of International Development applies a learner-centred, participatory and flexible approach to learning. This combined with the diverse groups of full- and part-time learners, including a significant number of international students, creates a unique learning environment that builds on both the diverse array of experiences of participants and on the knowledge and experience of academic staff.
Course Duration: 2 - 4 years part-time
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.
Year 1
Year 2
Careers
Graduates of this programme are well placed to pursue a career in development and humanitarian related field either overseas or in Ireland, including both ‘hands on’ management/field positions overseas, support roles in head offices and/or working in the development education sphere domestically. The course is appropriate for those already working in the sector but looking to ‘upskill’, those recently returned from overseas work or volunteer experiences or those contemplating a career in the sector.
Entry Requirements
Applicants who hold a minimum of a Bachelor Honours degree (NFQ Level 8) (or equivalent) with a minimum of a Second-Class Honours, Grade 2 (2:2) in a development related discipline e.g. agricultural science, anthropology, economics, education, engineering, geography, health-related discipline, nutrition, rural development, sociology or other social science.
If you do not meet the standard entry requirements then you may be eligible to apply under the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Please click here for further information.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here.
How to apply
Applications must be made via the MU Apply portal. Please click here to start your application.
When making your application, please ensure you prepare any documents listed below. You may be required to submit documents in two stages. You will be required to upload and submit the following documents with your application:
- Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
- Graduation Certificate if you have graduated
- A copy of your passport
- Up to date CV
If English is not your first language, you may be required to upload evidence of English language proficiency. For information please click here.