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Ruhr-Universität Bochum
Master English Law & Economics

Master of Arts in Development Management

Master

About the Program

The aim of the 18-month MA in Development Management is the training of professionals to meet the increasing need for experts in programme and project management that has emerged in international development cooperation. The course gives the student a solid theoretical background and introduces the necessary tools for dealing with the practical problems of managing development programmes and projects. Elements of the curriculum are an introduction to relevant theories in social science and economics, methods of empirical social research, project cycle management, and the application of theoretical and methodological knowledge. During the first semester, an interdisciplinary introduction to relevant theories and strategies of development, mainly from the economic and social science perspective, is given. Attention is also given to methods of empirical research. The second semester further substantiates the knowledge about developmental topics, focusing in particular on different methods of programme and project planning, implementation, and evaluation. During the third semester, students concentrate on finalising their Master's thesis. For their Master's thesis projects, students, in consultation with their mentor, identify a research problem related to a development programme or project as a starting point during the first semester. During the second semester, the topic is addressed from a theoretical perspective in a seminar paper which is also aimed at preparing the student for the empirical research carried out after that semester. The final thesis is designed to demonstrate the student's ability to embed their research in the scientific debate and to communicate it in a clear and coherent way.
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The aim of the 18-month MA in Development Management is the training of professionals to meet the increasing need for experts in programme and project management that has emerged in international development cooperation. The course gives the student a solid theoretical background and introduces the necessary tools for dealing with the practical problems of managing development programmes and projects. Elements of the curriculum are an introduction to relevant theories in social science and economics, methods of empirical social research, project cycle management, and the application of theoretical and methodological knowledge. During the first semester, an interdisciplinary introduction to relevant theories and strategies of development, mainly from the economic and social science perspective, is given. Attention is also given to methods of empirical research. The second semester further substantiates the knowledge about developmental topics, focusing in particular on different methods of programme and project planning, implementation, and evaluation. During the third semester, students concentrate on finalising their Master's thesis. For their Master's thesis projects, students, in consultation with their mentor, identify a research problem related to a development programme or project as a starting point during the first semester. During the second semester, the topic is addressed from a theoretical perspective in a seminar paper which is also aimed at preparing the student for the empirical research carried out after that semester. The final thesis is designed to demonstrate the student's ability to embed their research in the scientific debate and to communicate it in a clear and coherent way.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Economics

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Master of Arts in Development Management at Ruhr-Universität Bochum

Is Master of Arts in Development Management at Ruhr-Universität Bochum taught in German or English?

This Master programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Master of Arts in Development Management programme cost?

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Master of Arts in Development Management at Ruhr-Universität Bochum?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Master of Arts in Development Management?

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Ruhr-Universität Bochum — directly or via uni-assist?

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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