Master of Arts - Programme Description
Programme structure
Compulsory Courses
Elective Courses
Thesis
Field Trips
The Master of Arts in International Development Studies, known for short as MAIDS, is intended for people who are making, or have the potential to make, a meaningful contribution as researchers, practitioners, and leaders in the field of international development. The Graduate Programme expects applicants to be talented graduates with some work or volunteer experience in international development, generally in the non-profit or governmental sectors. The programme particularly encourages applications from citizens and residents of the Greater Mekong Sub-region countries.
The Programme is looking for individuals with sensitivity to and involvement in issues such as the promotion of social change, human rights, local community development, media freedom and humanitarian aid. The curriculum combines the study of rigorous theoretical frameworks with practical field experience. Students have the opportunity to network with a wide range of practitioners working with government, international and civil society organizations. The thesis project allows the student to develop expertise in an area of interest.
MAIDS offers a comprehensive and flexible preparation for either a career in international development or further studies at the doctorate level.
This programme is a full-time, one-year (Oct – Sep) intensive curriculum divided into three four-month trimesters.
The first two trimesters consist of four compulsory and four elective courses (3 credits each; totaling 24 credits). The third trimester is spent on thesis work in the student's area of interest (12 credits). At the end of the trimester students will present their thesis findings at an international conference or publish their work in a recognized academic journal. This is a nationwide requirement for the completion of Master's Studies.
Upon successful completion of the programme the student is awarded a Master of Arts degree in International Development Studies.
The M.A. program in International Development Studies is taught in English.
Compulsory Courses
Development Theory and Practice
Globalization and Development in Asia and the Pacific
Politics of Public Policy
Research Methodology in Development Studies
Communication, Democratization, and Development
Conflict Resolution
Development Project Management
Human Rights and Gender Problems in Asia and the Pacific
Migration as a Development Issue
Selected Topics in Development and Economy
Environmental Politics and Policy
Development Practicum
Please note that not all elective courses are available each year.
Thesis
Thesis (12 Credits)
Each year students and faculty members explore development issues on the ground, through one or two field visits in Thailand or neighboring countries. Past issues explored in the field include post-tsunami reconstruction and Mekong river management. Field trips are an important part of the programme, as they allow students to reconcile the theoretical framework learned in class with the first-hand knowledge of local communities and development practitioners.
