BA Degree in Development Studies
Kimmage Development Studies Centre

This programme provides students with an inter-disciplinary learning situation within which the development process can be analysed, critiqued and reflected upon. A deliberate attempt is made in all subject areas to integrate the relevant theory with participant's experience in the context of cultural diversity. The programme will be particularly helpful to those working in situations of marginalisation, engaged in justice and peace work, or developing community projects. The BA is run as a two year programme. All taught course work is completed in the first academic year, which runs from September to the end of May. In year 2 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 the second year is structured for off campus modules, physical attendance at DSC is not essential. Successful completion of the course earns participants a BA Degree in Development Studies, accredited by the HETAC, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council. Core Areas of study include: Political and Economic Development (includes Development Economics and Political Studies). Planning and Management (includes Project Planning and Management, Gender and Development and Leadership). Society, Culture and Environment (includes Sociology of Development, Cultural Anthropology and Environment and Development). Group and Adult Learning (includes Group Facilitation Skills, Adult Education and Human Development Theories). Development Research: Methods and Tools. Applied Research Project Typical Electives offered in recent years include: Economic and Political Policy Analysis: Ethics of Development; Participatory Planning Tools (PRA and DELTA); Human Rights; HIV/AIDS and Development; Emergency Relief Interventions, etc .

Type of course
Undergraduate courses

Entry requirements
Applicants to the BA Degree should normally have a post-secondary qualification from a recognised institute or evidence of at least two years education or training at third-level, in a related subject 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 experiential learning to ensure their suitability for a programme of study which is essentially the second and third year of a 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.

Start and finish dates
Two years commencing from September

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