Advanced Post Graduate Diploma Program in International Development
About This Course
The Advanced Post Graduate Diploma Program in International Development is designed to provide comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge and skills essential for professionals working in the field of international development. This program equips students with an in-depth understanding of the complex socio-economic, political, and environmental factors shaping global development agendas. Through a combination of theoretical insights, practical case studies, and experiential learning, participants will gain the necessary competencies to navigate the challenges and opportunities inherent in international development work.
Learning Objectives
Course Objectives:
• Comprehensive Understanding: Gain a deep understanding of the theories, frameworks, and paradigms underpinning international development, including historical contexts and contemporary debates.
• Critical Analysis: Develop the ability to critically analyze complex development issues, including poverty, inequality, sustainability, governance, and human rights, from interdisciplinary perspectives.
• Policy and Practice: Explore the linkages between policy formulation and implementation in international development contexts, and develop practical skills to design, implement, and evaluate development interventions effectively.
• Global Perspective: Cultivate a global perspective by examining diverse development experiences across regions and countries, understanding the role of international organizations, governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders in shaping development agendas.
• Socio-Economic Development: Examine the dynamics of socio-economic development, including economic growth, poverty reduction, gender equality, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, with a focus on inclusive and sustainable development approaches.
• Conflict and Humanitarian Response: Analyze the complexities of conflict, post-conflict reconstruction, and humanitarian response, and explore strategies for promoting peacebuilding, reconciliation, and resilience in conflict-affected societies.
• Ethical Considerations: Reflect on the ethical dilemmas and challenges inherent in international development practice, including issues related to cultural sensitivity, power dynamics, and the role of privilege and inequality.
• Research and Methodology: Develop research skills and methodological tools necessary for conducting rigorous qualitative and quantitative research in international development, including data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
• Professional Development: Enhance professional skills such as project management, communication, negotiation, and networking, essential for effective engagement in diverse development contexts.
• Capstone Project: Apply acquired knowledge and skills to a real-world development challenge through a capstone project, demonstrating the ability to integrate theory and practice to propose innovative solutions to complex development problems.
By the end of the program, participants will be equipped with the expertise and insights necessary to address pressing global development challenges and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development efforts worldwide.
Course Structure: Advanced Post Graduate Diploma Program in International Development
Module 1: Foundations of International Development
• Introduction to International Development: History, Theories, and Paradigms
• Global Development Agenda: Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Development Actors and Institutions: Governments, NGOs, International Organizations
• Key Concepts: Poverty, Inequality, Human Rights, Sustainability
Module 2: Socio-Economic Development
• Economic Growth and Development Theories
• Poverty Reduction Strategies: Microfinance, Social Safety Nets, and Beyond
• Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment in Development
• Education, Healthcare, and Social Services Provision in Developing Contexts
Module 3: Governance and Policy in Development
• Governance and Development: Transparency, Accountability, and Participation
• Policy Formulation and Implementation Processes
• Public Sector Reform and Capacity Building
• Advocacy and Lobbying for Policy Change
Module 4: Sustainable Development and Environmental Management
• Environmental Degradation and Sustainable Development Goals
• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
• Natural Resource Management and Conservation
• Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
Module 5: Conflict, Peacebuilding, and Humanitarian Response
• Understanding Conflict Dynamics: Causes, Actors, and Impacts
• Conflict Prevention, Resolution, and Peacebuilding Strategies
• Humanitarian Principles and International Humanitarian Law
• Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development
Module 6: Cross-Cutting Issues in Development
• Gender Mainstreaming and Gender Analysis in Development Projects
• Youth Empowerment and Development
• Indigenous Peoples' Rights and Development
• Disability-Inclusive Development Approaches
Module 7: Research Methods in International Development
• Introduction to Research Methodologies: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches
• Data Collection Techniques: Surveys, Interviews, Focus Groups
• Data Analysis: Statistical Analysis, Content Analysis, Qualitative Coding
• Ethical Considerations in Development Research
Module 8: Professional Development and Capstone Project
• Project Management in International Development
• Communication and Networking Skills for Development Professionals
• Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Skills
• Capstone Project: Applying Learning to a Real-World Development Challenge
Each module includes lectures, seminars, case studies, group discussions, and practical exercises to facilitate comprehensive learning and skill development. Guest speakers from relevant organizations and field visits may supplement the curriculum to provide practical insights into international development practice.
• Research Paper: As part of the course requirements, you'll have the opportunity to select a research topic. After choosing your topic, you'll collaborate with the moderator to finalize it. Following approval, you'll proceed to develop a comprehensive proposal. Once approved, you'll continue to refine and expand your research by completing chapters three, four, and five of the paper. Detailed guidelines will be provided to ensure adherence to the preferred format specified by the institute.
• Assignments: To demonstrate comprehension, participants will complete three assignments designed to apply course concepts to real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills after completing each module.
• Final Examination: To demonstrate comprehensive understanding and application of the course, you will seat for a final examination which is conducted online.
• Certification: Showcase your competence and expertise with a certificate of completion issued by Stratford International BDLC upon successful completion
• Dedicate approximately 10-12 hours per week to coursework and learning activities
• Target Regions: Worldwide
Material Includes
- Upon enrollment, you'll unlock access to a wealth of course materials meticulously curated on our advanced eLearning Platform. These resources, presented in diverse formats such as engaging audiovisuals, compelling graphics, and informative texts, are meticulously structured to ensure seamless learning progression. Each unit seamlessly builds upon the previous, offering a comprehensive journey through fundamental principles, industry-specific terminology, practical applications, and advanced execution methods.
- The course content spans an array of topics essential for mastering the field, providing you with a holistic understanding and practical skills necessary for success. Whether you're a novice or seasoned professional, our step-by-step approach empowers you to not only grasp complex concepts but also apply them with confidence in real-world scenarios.
- Here's a glimpse of what our comprehensive course materials and resources entail:
- • Detailed Study Guide to navigate through the course content effectively.
- • Interactive Live Lectures delivered via platforms like Zoom or Google Meet, ensuring dynamic engagement and real-time interaction.
- • Access to E-books and recommended readings curated by experts in the field, enriching your understanding and providing further insights.
- • "Key Concept" videos to reinforce essential topics and aid in comprehension.
- • Online Recorded Webinars offering additional insights and practical demonstrations by industry experts.
- • Revision Sessions facilitated by module tutors, focusing on specific topics to consolidate learning.
- • Access to Past Examination Papers and Examiners' Reports to familiarize yourself with assessment formats and expectations.
- • Personalized Feedback from module tutors via online discussion forums and individualized assessment evaluations.
- • Ongoing Tutor Support available throughout the academic year, ensuring guidance and assistance from the beginning to the end.
- • With our comprehensive support system and cutting-edge resources, you'll embark on a transformative learning journey, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in your field.
- Training Format:
- - Access course materials, lectures, and resources through our state-of-the-art Online Learning Platform
- - Engage in interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises to reinforce learning
- - Benefit from expert guidance and feedback from industry-leading instructors throughout the program
- - Dedicate approximately 10-12 hours per week to coursework and learning activities
Requirements
- - Eligibility criteria for admission: Bachelor's degree holders from recognized universities or equivalent qualifications from reputable institutions.
- - Dedicate approximately 10-12 hours per week to coursework and learning activities
- - Course duration: 12 months
Target Audience
- This online course welcomes applicants from all corners of the globe, spanning diverse career fields and including self-employed individuals seeking to enhance their skill sets and professional competencies.
- Furthermore, this course holds immense value for a wide spectrum of professionals, including:
- • Government workers seeking to augment their project management capabilities within bureaucratic settings.
- • UN workers and diplomats striving to navigate complex project landscapes with diplomacy and efficacy.
- • Humanitarian workers dedicated to improving project outcomes in crisis-affected regions and supporting vulnerable populations.
- • Employees of international organizations committed to driving impactful initiatives on a global scale.
- • Professionals in the field of Human Development aiming to integrate robust project oversight and evaluation methodologies into their practices.
- • Any individual with a keen interest in project management principles and methodologies, eager to expand their knowledge and proficiency in the field.
- • Members of multinational companies aiming to streamline project processes and maximize efficiency across diverse cultural and operational contexts.
- Regardless of your professional background or organizational affiliation, this course offers invaluable insights, practical tools, and strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs and challenges faced by individuals and entities on a global scale.
Your Instructors
Stratford International BDLC
<p>Stratford International Blended and Distance Learning Center is a leading international humanitarian and sustainable development support Center that trains and supports aid workers and humanitarian organizations.<br />We are dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to create a positive and lasting impact in the world.</p>
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