Development Studies, 1-year Programme

Study programme code UTV60

ECTS credits 60

Admission requirements Completion of general upper-secondary education.

Recommended previous knowledge A good knowledge of English.

General description and profile of the programme The programme provides knowledge of global relations and processes of development. Important issues are: theories of development and underdevelopment; globalisation and the international economic system/economy; north-south relations; aid and problems of poverty. The programme is well suited for persons possessing a theoretical interest and/or a practical background in development issues, foreign aid or third-world problems.

Specific arrangements for recognition of prior learning (formal, non-formal and informal) Arrangements for the recognition of prior learning are described in the information on the institution under "General arrangements for the recognition of prior learning (formal, informal and non-formal)".

Examination regulations and grading For a description of the examination regulations, see the Examination Regulations of the University of Agder.

For information about the Norwegian grading system, see ECTS credits and grades. Specific information on grading for each course is found in the individual course descriptions.

Graduation requirements The Examination Regulations of the University of Agder regulate the graduation requirements for each programme of study.

Learning outcomes During the study programme students should develop a basic understanding of development and under-development with a focus on problems of poverty. They should be able to identify global differences, and identify those factors that create and maintain these differences. They should have knowledge of different approaches to development and be able to apply critical analyses on various aspects of development and the role different development agencies play; multilateral and bilateral institutions as well as non-governmental organisations.

Teaching methods Teaching will be given as lectures, group work, seminars and discussions and visits to projects, organisations and institutions during the study tour UT-109, and supervision in connection with the study tour report. Most of the teaching will be in Norwegian, but some courses or modules can be taught in English. See separate course descriptions for further information.

Assessment methods See separate course descriptions for further information.

Occupational profiles of graduates and access to further studies The Development studies can, in combination with other study programmes, contribute to strengthening the background for positions in development projects, for work in developing countries for national and international aid organisations and administration of development aid.

Other information Study tour to a developing country The students take part in a 5 week study tour during the second semester of the study programme. The study tour is from the beginning of January to mid Februray. The study tour has normally been to Tanzania, Sri Lanka or Indonesia (in 2008 also to Mauritius). During the study tour the students visit different projects, organisations and institutions, and stay some days with a local family. The study tour is an important part of the study programme and give students an experience of the Third World - and how it is to live in a developing country. The study tour should also give the students an opportunity to apply theories they learn during their studies and how theory applied to reality. The students have to cover the cost of the study tour (NOK 16 000-18 000), but can apply to Lånekassen for additional loans/scholarships.

Contact person Arne Olav Øyhus