Program Objectives
Department of Development Studies presents a comprehensive 2-year MS Program in Development Studies to familiarize students with development theories, policies and practices. Aligned with our goal of fostering a proactive citizenry, graduates from the Department of Development Studies will be equipped to seamlessly transition into impactful roles upon completion of the two-year MS Program.
HANDS Institute of Development Studies (HANDS-IDS), enable students to learn how to approach development problems with creativity, confidence and the ability to work collaboratively.
The Program’s objective is to introduce students to development studies as both an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary field to improve their analytical skills with the precision of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) with the analytical thinking of social sciences providing practical education, quality education and training in the field on the fundamentals of development.
The Program’s objective is also to make a quality research in the field and devise strategies and solutions to the socio-economic problems and challenges in the country. HANDS-IDS will enable students in the Department of Development Studies to concentrate on applying knowledge throughout their MS program. Ultimately, the department aims to cultivate individuals capable of identifying developmental challenges, generating innovative solutions and effectively implementing those solutions.
(MSDS) - Scheme of Studies (Semester wise)
| Course Code | Title of Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| TCD – 701 | Theories and Concepts in Development Studies | 3 |
| ARM – 702 | Advanced Research Methodology | 3 |
| XXXXXX – 703 | Elective – I | 3 |
| XXXXXX – 704 | Elective – II | 3 |
| TOTAL CREDIT HOURS OF 1st SEMESTER | 12 | |
| Course Code | Title of Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| SPD – 705 | Social Policy & Development | 3 |
| ARM – 706 | Applied Statistical Research Methods | 3 |
| XXXXXX – 707 | Elective – I | 3 |
| XXXXXX – 708 | Elective – II | 3 |
| TOTAL CREDIT HOURS OF 2nd SEMESTER | 12 | |
| Course Code | Title of Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| XXXXXX – 709 | Thesis | 6 |
| TOTAL CREDIT HOURS OF 3rd AND 4th SEMESTERS | 06 | |
Learning Goals
The learning goals outline the intellectual and behavioral competencies that MS graduates should possess, forming the foundation for their future professional and personal development and success. The primary objective of the program is to deliver thorough current insights into key trends and changes in global development and the environment. By concentrating on core disciplines within the field, students will gain a comprehensive understanding to advance professionally in developmental occupations.
To ensure the success of MS graduates, a rigorous assurance of learning system has been implemented. This system benchmarks students’ performance against specific learning goals outlined below:
Critical Thinking and Decision Making – MS students can use analytical and reflective thinking techniques to identify and analyze problems, develop viable alternatives, and make effective decisions. They apply appropriate quantitative and qualitative techniques in solving developmental problems.
Communication Skills – MS Students can write effective business documents as well as prepare and deliver effective oral presentations using a variety of appropriate technologies.
Ethical Behavior and Social Responsibility – MS students can identify and analyze ethical conflicts and social responsibility issues involving different stakeholders. They develop viable alternatives and make effective decisions relating to ethics and social responsibility.
Core Knowledge : MS students can demonstrate competency in the underlying concepts, theory and tools taught in the core curriculum.
Program Duration
2 Years (4 Semesters) – structured for advanced coursework and thesis/research completion.
Eligibility
MS – 2 Years Program: A degree earned from a recognized university (16 years of education) with at least 50% marks. After completing 16 years of education a candidate is eligible to enroll in MS Program
CAREERS
Students of Development Studies at HANDS-IDS often choose careers in ministry of planning, International organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, non-governmental organizations, private sector development consultancy firms and research centers because they’ll develop an understanding of the main debates in development and engage in informed and critical ways with professionals from diverse backgrounds.
Top sectors our students work in:
- Child Protection
- Consultancy
- Education
- Government, Public Sector and Policy
- Health and Social Care
- International Organizations
- NGO
- Rural Development
- Social Welfare
- Teaching and Research
- United Nations
- Urban Development
- Women Development