BA degree development studies

BA degree development studies
BA degree development studies
BA degree development studies
BA degree development studies

MS-TCDC offers a two-year course in Development Studies on behalf of Kimmage Development Studies Centre in Dublin, Ireland.

Course Code: DS1
Duration: 5 weeks
Schedule: 15/07-16/08/2013

Course Objectives:

MS-TCDC offers a two-year course in Development Studies on behalf of Kimmage Development Studies Centre (KDSC): www.kimmagedsc.ie  in Dublin, Ireland. This course provides participants with an interdisciplinary learning situation within which the development process can be analysed, critiqued and reflected upon. Participants successfully completing the course will be awarded an Ordinary B.A. in Development Studies by the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC) of Ireland. An Ordinary B.A. does not automatically give access to further studies at Master level. The course is recognised by National Council for Technical Education (NACTE) in Tanzania.
 
It should be noted that this Ordinary B.A. is more of a professional degree than a purely academic one. It builds on participants’ prior experiential learning and values credit gained through experience. Action-oriented and participatory-learning approach with emphasis on the immediate practical application of theories and skills is the basic methodological strategy.
 
By the end of the course participants are expected to have
  • Understanding of the human, economic, political & social aspects of change theory
  • Understanding of, and skills for, people-centered advocacy practices that facilitate sustainable development and social transformation
  • Skills in relation to leadership, in working with groups and organisations, and in the planning, management and evaluation of projects

Course Content:

The course content is balanced between practical and theoretical approaches to development.  The core programme for the course in Arusha is the same as that offered to Ordinary B.A. students at KDSC, Ireland.
  
  • Core Subject Areas:
  • Political and Economic Development
  • Planning and Management
  • Society, Culture and Environment
  • Group and Adult Learning
  • Documentation and Computer Skills
  • Research Methods
Electives
Participants are required to undertake three examinable electives.  Typical electives are:
 
  • Participatory Development Methodologies
  • Organisational Development and Human Resource Management
  • Peace Building and Conflict Management
  • Local Democracy and Governance
  • Policy Advocacy
  • Social Entrepreneurship

Target Group:

This course is for staff in private, public and civil society organisations that have responsibility for development work. To qualify for the course, participants need a minimum of secondary school certificate with minimum of three credits and relevant post secondary qualification. A minimum of 5 years work experience in development is required. The minimum age is 25 years and candidates should have proven English and writing skills.  Computer skills will be an added advantage.
 
Time Frame

The BA programme is run over a two year cycle, but in three ‘stages' (Total time 24 Months).

Stage 1: Following acceptance to the programme, but before commencing course work, learners 'prior learning' (both certified and experiential) and their progression eligibility is formally assessed.

For more information on RPL and how it is used in Kimmage DSC, click here. 

Stage 2 is run over a 15 month period and consists of three modules (16 weeks – spread over 15 months) of course work. The period between the modules is utilised for applying the knowledge and skills gained through assignments at the participants’ respective workplaces. This includes distance learning and mentoring.

In year 2 (Stage 3) participants engage in an applied research project on a topic in the development field (preferably related to their work) and are required to write up a final integration paper. As part of the second year is structured for off- campus modules, physical attendance at MS-TCDC is not essential.

 
Assessment
Assessment is based upon continuous evaluation of essays, and participation in seminars and projects.  To be eligible for the HETAC accreditation, participants are required to sit for final exams and write a dissertation based on the applied research project.
 
Fee:
(incl. Tuition and full board)
 

Essential facts – B.A in Development Studies 2013-2015

 
Course code
DS 1-3
 
Duration
16 weeks over 24 months
 
Schedule
DS 1 (Module 1):            5 weeks: 16/07-17/08
DS 2 (Module 2):            6 weeks*          
DS 3 (Module 3):            5 weeks*
 
Fees per module (include Tuition and full board)
Module 1 and 3 
Single Room Accommodation US$ 3425
Shared double Accommodation US$ 2950
 
Module 2
Single Room Accommodation US$ 4110
Shared double Accommodation US$ 3540
 
Total full fee
Single Room Accommodation US$ 10,960
Shared double Accommodation US$ 9440
 
Exact dates for DS Modules 2&3 will be communicated later.
 
Please note that the application form for BA in Development Studies is different from the application form for our regular short courses.