DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT STUDIES (DIDS)

Programme Objectives

• Examine development theories, policies, and interventions in the global context.
• Develop understanding of historical and contemporary development processes.
• Analyse the role of states, NGOs, and international organisations in development.
• Explore issues of gender, indigeneity, inequality, and social justice in development.
• Encourage ethical reflection on the meaning, purpose, and practice of development.

Key Thematic Focus

• International development theories and concepts
• Poverty, inequality, and socio-economic transformation
• Governance, security, and the role of the state
• Foreign aid, global trade, and sustainable development
• Gender, indigenous perspectives, and human rights
• Ethical challenges and cultural sensitivity in development practice

Who Is This Programme For?

This is an introductory programme suitable for individuals who are working in, or planning to enter, the humanitarian and international development sectors. This includes staff of humanitarian aid organisations, government agencies, church-sponsored community projects, UN agencies, and individuals actively seeking careers in development-related fields.

There are no formal prerequisites. Participants are expected to have an interest in humanitarianism and development, but prior professional experience is not required.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, learners will be able to:

• Understand and critically evaluate development concepts and theories.
• Apply development frameworks to real-world community and policy contexts.
• Support and implement community development initiatives.
• Promote inclusive participation and manage diversity within communities.
• Develop and support community leadership and engagement.

Assessment

• Continuous assessments (four assignments) — 40%
• Research paper based on internship — 30%
• Final examination — 30%

Upon successful completion, students are awarded a Diploma Certificate and an official course transcript.

Duration & Course Load

The programme runs over four academic terms (approximately 20 hours per week), followed by a six-month internship with a partner institution to support applied learning and professional development.