Development Studies
Students will explore the economic, social, and political dimensions of development, gaining skills in research, policy analysis, and project management across local and global contexts.
- 3 Years / Onsite
- Intakes: Sep, Jan
Overview
The Development Studies program at Admas University offers students a comprehensive understanding of development processes from interdisciplinary perspectives. Learners will study key themes such as poverty reduction, sustainable development, governance, and social change. The program equips students with practical tools in development planning, community engagement, and project evaluation.
Students gain critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills to work effectively in NGOs, international organizations, government agencies, and grassroots initiatives.
One day in class, your instructor might assign a real-world case study on rural poverty. You and your classmates assess the factors involved, explore development models, and propose solutions tailored to cultural, environmental, and political realities. Then you present your intervention plan to the class — just like in a development agency pitch.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Development Studies program are well-prepared for careers in government agencies, international organizations, NGOs, and research institutions. They can work as development project officers, policy analysts, program coordinators, community development workers, or social entrepreneurs. With strong skills in planning, evaluation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, graduates are equipped to address social and economic challenges at both local and global levels.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the program, students will be able to critically understand and apply development theories in real-world contexts. They will gain the ability to analyze social, economic, and political issues, design and manage development projects, and conduct research and policy analysis. Graduates will also develop strong communication, leadership, and collaboration skills, enabling them to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development efforts.
Students will also gain practical skills in negotiation, communication, and cross-cultural understanding. These competencies will prepare them to engage effectively in diplomatic settings, contribute to policy development, and address complex challenges in international relations.
Course Structure
Year One
| Semester 1 | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Development Studies | 3 | DS 1011 |
| Civics & Ethical Education | 3 | CvEt 1021 |
| Communicative English Skills I | 3 | EnLa 1011 |
| Introduction to Economics | 3 | Econ 1011 |
| Introduction to Sociology | 3 | SOSA 1011 |
| Islamic Studies | 2 | Iss 1011 |
| Semester 2 | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Management | 3 | BMGT1021 |
| Quantitative Methods | 3 | QuMt 1011 |
| Communicative English Skills II | 3 | EnLa 1012 |
| Microeconomics | 3 | Econ1071 |
| Development Ethics & Policy | 3 | DS 1022 |
| General Psychology | 2 | PYCH1061 |
| Basic Writing Skills | 3 | EnLa 1013 |
| Semester 3 | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to International Law | 3 | DS 1023 |
| NGO and Development | 3 | DS 1073 |
| Gender & Youth Development | 3 | DS 2082 |
| Disaster Risk Management | 3 | DS 2031 |
Year Two
| Semester 1 | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Methods for Development Studies | 3 | DS 222 |
| Principles of Accounting | 4 | AcFn 1011 |
| Communication for Development | 3 | DS 2061 |
| Decentralization & Local Governance | 3 | DS 2072 |
| Conflict Analysis and Management | 3 | DS 2022 |
| Semester 2 | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Statistics | 3 | QuMt 1012 |
| Research Methodology in Development Studies I | 3 | DS 2093 |
| Macroeconomics | 3 | Econ 2072 |
| Urban Development | 3 | DS 2042 |
| Human Rights & Development | 3 | DS 3021 |
Year Three
| Semester 1 | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Research Methodology in Development Studies II | 3 | DS 3091 |
| Project Planning and Management | 4 | DS 3101 |
| Development Economics I | 3 | DS 2053 |
| Development Economics II | 3 | DS 3051 |
| Rural Development | 3 | DS 2043 |
| Semester 2 | Credits | Code | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Impact Assessment | 3 | DS 3031 | |||||||||
| Development Finance | 3 | DS 3112 | |||||||||
| Monitoring and Evaluation | 3 | DS 3102 | |||||||||
| Research Project | 3 | DS 3092 | |||||||||
| Seminar for Development Studies | 3 | DS 3093 | |||||||||
| Semester 3 | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Social Development | 3 | DS 3122 |
| Political Economy of East Africa & the Horn | 3 | DS 3053 |
| Sustainable Development | 3 | DS 3143 |
Contact us
Main Campus, Behind Maansoor Hotel, Hargeisa Somaliland
How to Apply?
- Get Information
Reach out to the university to learn more about programs, admissions, and available opportunities.
- Check Requirements
Review the admission criteria to ensure you meet all necessary qualifications before applying.
- Apply
Complete the application process and take the next step toward your academic journey.
FORM
Are you ready to take the next step toward your future career?
Inactive
Our Campuses
Take a closer look at Admas University’s campuses, each designed to provide a vibrant learning environment.
Blog
Life as a Distance Learning Student
How to Organise Your Studies for Success
Alumni
With over 5,000 alumni excelling in various fields, Admas University Somaliland takes pride in shaping leaders
Admas University
Innovation and Excellence