Program Overview
The International Development Studies at Utrecht University is a MSc programme in Social Sciences over 12 months, delivered On-campus. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.
Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of social sciences. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.
Graduates of the International Development Studies programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across Netherlands and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 12 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: On-campus
- English requirement: IELTS 6.5
- Tuition: EUR 15,167 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 2,006 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the International Development Studies programme are prepared for diverse careers in social sciences:
- Policy Analyst
- NGO Programme Manager
- Researcher
- Social Worker
- Diplomat
- Development Consultant
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- Development themes
- Development theories
- Advanced methods and techniques for international development studies
- Development practices
- Master thesis / internship international development studies
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
You have an (inter)national academic Bachelor degree in Human Geography and Planning; or one of the following: Social Sciences, Economics, Management and Organizational Sciences, Humanities and Law. Students should have demonstrable knowledge of issues related to International Development Studies.
Proof of your proficiency in English (CAE- Level B, CPC- Grade C).
English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
EUR 15,167 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 2,006 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
Tuition fees: EUR 15,167 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 2,006 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
IELTS requirement: 6.5
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact Utrecht University directly for scholarship, grant, and financial aid information for this programme. Many European universities offer merit-based and need-based funding for international and domestic students.
About Utrecht University
Utrecht University
Utrecht, Netherlands
Visit the university profile page to learn more about this institution.
University Profile- Application Deadline Apr, 2027
- Start Date Sep, 2026
- Language English
- Duration 12 months
