Rural Development and Natural Resource Management MSc with a major in Rural Development

Welcome to an international Master’s programme that teaches you how to analyse and define the problems of rural development and natural resource management in a global context. Attracting students from all over the world, the courses included in the programme will give you in-depth understanding of rural livelihoods, governance of natural resources, food systems and power inequalities so that you can use your knowledge to have a positive impact on development, poverty and climate change. 

This 2-year programme investigates these subjects in the context of societal development and offers opportunities for both broadened and in-depth studies. At the end of the programme you will have gained a deeper insight into development issues with a social science perspective on natural resources and globalisation.  

With a Master’s degree in Rural Development, your skills will be in demand and you will be equipped to start an academic career in a ministry, government agency, an international organisation, or in aid. You will also be able to continue your studies towards a PhD.

The programme is organised into themes that include introductory and advanced courses, offering students a broad understanding of rural development and natural resource management as well as more specialised knowledge of the different dimensions involved. Students are taught how to facilitate and manage developmental projects and to acquire knowledge and skills in conducting research. The courses will provide theoretical knowledge applied in case study scenarios, requiring active student involvement. Some examples of topics covered by the courses are the consquences of long-term aid in poor and weak welfare states, rural change and the role of non-farm and off-farm activities and farming practices, technologies and solutions for sustainable farming, fishing and forestry.

Want to know more? You can read the syllabus at the student web. 

A Master´s degree in Rural Development and Natural Resource Management offers job prospects in fields such as with projects or organisations in the development arena, the academic world, research, the private sector, consultancy firms, policy design and facilitation, governmental or non-governmental organisations and local, national or international institutions.

Qualification Awarded

Degree of Master of Science (120 Credits) with a major in Rural Development