Institute of Development Studies

MA Governance and Development

The Governance and Development programme provides students with a theoretically informed understanding of debates on governance, enhancing their capacity to develop and implement policies in NGOs and public organisations. This MA aims to cover both the 'state-centric' and 'societal' aspects of governance, although the primary focus is on the functioning of political institutions in their societal context.

Good governance emerged in the 1990s, as one of the most important and enduring new areas of policy and practice in development studies. Since then, a critical policy issue has been how to reform and rebuild states in the developing world, focusing on two key areas: the creation of more effective and legitimate legal, administrative, financial and policymaking institutions; and the promotion of social justice and empowerment for poor people by harnessing an active civil society.

The main objectives of the course are to enhance the ability of students to:

• Critically assess competing theories of the role of the public sector and public finance in social and economic development
• Understand the significance of current globalisation processes for international and national institutions
• Develop policies for improving the effectiveness, accountability and legitimacy of governance in specific settings  

Assessment

A mixture of assessment modes is used: a written examination paper (seen in advance) for core course two; continuous assessment through short written exercises, and longer term papers. 

Entry Requirements

A good honours degree in a social science or related discipline, and substantial professional work experience in a developing country or in development-related work. The minimum acceptable level of English language competence is grade 7 overall, and no less than 6.5 in each section of the IELTS test (or equivalent).

How to apply and Fees

Further Information: Contact Programme Officer, Lisa Ross
Phone: +44 (0)1273 915854 Email:  l.ross@ids.ac.uk