There is no more challenging and stimulating topic in the field of Social Sciences than studying development and the changes that can help overcome the vicious cycle of poverty and inequality and build a more just, free, supportive, inclusive and ecologically sustainable world.
The MSc in Development Studies at Iscte, seeks to understand the problems of the real and current world and therefore its study plan follows an interdisciplinary theoretical, methodological and empirical approach accompanied by a constant reflection on concepts such as justice, freedom, equality, solidarity, inclusion and ecological sustainability. The MSc in Development Studies aims to equip students with analytical skills and practical tools that offer them the opportunity to take a critical look at the evidence-based reality of the world based supported by facts and to seek their own path as active citizens in local, national and global processes of change.
Director(s) message
We live in times of uncertainty and insecurity dominated by wars, climate, economic and geopolitical crises. After decades of multiple human development indicators improving significantly, these advances are not guaranteed and may even be at risk. At the same time, the global governance that emerged at the end of World War II is now undergoing what appears to be systemic and structural challenges. The multilateral institutions that have been led by the governments of the so-called "Global North" and set the rules of the game of this liberal global order are now joined by a multiplicity of other actors: governments of the "Global South", multinational corporations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), transnational movements, foundations, etc. We are facing a critical moment for development in an increasingly complex, fragmented, adapting and changing world.
This master's degree aims to help reflect and critically discuss the realities, narratives, practices, and outcomes of global development and international cooperation. To study global development is to study processes of change. It is to study how local, national and international structures and institutions – legal, political, economic, social, technological, ecological, religious or artistic – and individuals operate and interact with each other to shape and influence transformation in particular territories.
There are 2 classes planned for 2024/2025: one class to be lectured in English during daytime schedule and another class lectured in Portuguese with an evening schedule.
Both classes have a limited number of admissions and they will only open with a minimum number of students.
General information