Program Overview
The African Institute for International Studies (AIIS) is excited to announce the launch of a new Master of Arts in Development and Theological Studies (MADTS), beginning in the Fall 2024 semester.
Program Details
This two-year program, supervised by the AIIS Graduate Studies Committee of the Department of International Development, is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and research skills in development studies and theological perspectives, with a focus on global and regional challenges.
Key features of the program include:
- A core course in Development Studies covering social, political, global, and development theory, as well as key themes such as agrarian change, urbanization, social policy, sustainable development, states and governance, and technology and innovation.
- Two foundation papers selected from History and Politics, Economics, or Social Anthropology, with specific requirements for non-economics background students to include Economics.
- Research methodology training, including a written paper on qualitative and quantitative methods and a research design essay of up to 5,000 words.
- A thesis of up to 30,000 words on a topic in development studies, approved by the MADTS Teaching Committee.
- Two options courses assessed either by timed written examination or coursework submission in the second year.
Program Structure
The program includes a rigorous first-year qualifying test comprising two foundation papers, a Research Methods paper, and a research design essay. Candidates must pass all components to progress to the second year. Marks from these assessments contribute to the final degree outcome. In the final year, candidates submit a thesis and complete two options courses. Failure in any final-year component results in degree failure, with the opportunity to retake or resubmit the following academic year.
Faculty Leadership
The program will be overseen by the Department Head of MADTS, with thesis supervision provided by faculty approved by the Graduate Studies Committee. Additional support comes from AIIS faculty members and visiting scholars from partner institutions.
Admissions Information
Applications for the inaugural cohort are now being accepted. Prospective students should hold a relevant bachelor’s degree and meet the academic requirements set by the AIIS Graduate Studies Committee. Candidates are admitted to examinations in a specific year, with exceptional permissions for deferral granted by the Proctors through the candidate’s college.
For more information about the program and application process, please contact the AIIS Admissions Office or visit the Course Handbook for detailed submission requirements and deadlines.
