Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in development theory and practice, combining subjects in social, political and economic aspects of international development with research methods and practical project skills. Typical topics include:

• Introduction to Development Studies — historical and contemporary perspectives on development, decolonisation and global inequality.
• Development Economics — basic micro- and macro-economic concepts applied to development contexts, poverty analysis and livelihoods.
• Research Methods for Development — qualitative and quantitative techniques, participatory approaches and ethical practice in field research.
• Project Design and Management — planning, monitoring and evaluation, budgeting and donor reporting.
• Governance, Policy and Human Rights — institutions, policy processes and the role of rights-based approaches.
• Gender, Culture and Development — intersections of gender, culture and power in development interventions.
• Environment and Sustainable Development — climate change, natural resource management and community resilience.
• Fieldwork, Internship or Capstone Project — applied placement or research project with a community organisation, NGO or government agency.

The degree is typically delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies and supervised fieldwork or practicum. Electives allow you to focus on areas such as humanitarian response, Indigenous development, migration, or project management.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on completion of secondary school or an equivalent qualification, with alternative pathways for mature-age applicants and those with prior tertiary study. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Typical entry pathways include:

• Completion of senior secondary school (or international equivalent).
• Recognition of prior learning or vocational qualifications for pathway entry.
• Mature-age entry options for applicants without formal secondary qualifications.
• English language proficiency demonstrated through a recognised test or approved evidence; specific score requirements are published by the university.

Some campuses or combined degree options may have additional requirements or recommended preparatory studies; consult the university for precise entry details relevant to your circumstances.

Career prospects

Graduates gain skills suited to a wide range of roles in the development and humanitarian sectors. Common career paths include:

• Project officer, program coordinator or project manager for NGOs and community organisations.
• Policy analyst or advisor for government aid and development agencies.
• Monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) practitioner for development programmes.
• Researcher or advisor with think tanks, universities or research institutes.
• Roles in international organisations and multilateral agencies, or in specialist areas such as gender, human rights, Indigenous development or environmental programming.

Graduates often progress into postgraduate study in development studies, public policy, international relations or related fields to specialise further or to move into senior technical and leadership positions.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises a values-driven approach to education with a strong focus on social justice and community engagement, which aligns closely with the goals of international development study. The university offers a supportive learning environment with relatively small class sizes, practical placement opportunities and staff who combine academic expertise with professional experience in development and humanitarian practice.

ACU maintains partnerships with community organisations, NGOs and government agencies that can support placement and research opportunities, and its campuses provide access to interdisciplinary study, allowing students to combine development studies with complementary subjects such as social work, law, education or public health.