Development studies research at Massey aims to transform the lives of people around the world. Explore our research expertise, current projects, degrees and student work.
Development studies sets out to understand and analyse the processes that are transforming people’s lives around the world. You’ll study key development issues and ideas, and get skills to help solve development problems. Find out more about where development studies at Massey can take you.
I travelled to Italy and Israel to complete my fieldwork as part of my master’s thesis on interfaith dialogues for peacebuilding, an integral part of my Master of International Development.
Anna Baldwin
Master of International Development
I have been completing a practicum with the World Indigenous Tourism Alliance. Having this ‘real world’ experience as part of my study has been invaluable and facilitated the connection between academic and practice.
Bronwyn Hutchison
Postgraduate Diploma in International Development
My thesis was on the sustainability of educational developments within landowner communities in mine-impacted areas, a case study of Porgera Gold Mine in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. That supported me to gain jobs within the mining industry for short term consultancy assignments as well as permanent employment.
Bruce Java
Master of Philosophy in Development Studies
I chose Massey because the distance learning curriculum offers flexibility with study during the year if I am moving around, and I liked the subjects on offer. Development studies has been particularly interesting, and has given me a depth of understanding that continues to serve me well in the humanitarian field.
Dave Oakes
Master of International Development
My programme included a six month practicum with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs based in Geneva.
Geeta Reddy
Master of International Development.
Hayley Morrison runs The Motorbike Book Club mobile literacy project delivering books via motorbike to children living in some of Vietnam’s poorest rural villages. Development studies theory taught Hayley about best practice.
Hayley Morrison
Master of International Development
My study experience was really great. Some of my friends have done development studies with other institutions, and I can confidently say that Massey's course was by far the best. The lecturers were friendly and helpful and there was a wonderful mentor and family environment which I hold with high regard and remember with affection. I became very close with the other students in my class and there were always people to support me in both my personal and student life.
Melanie Pimentel
Master of Philosophy in Development Studies
Pip Rea's master's research investigates the role of resilience among women who have experienced the trauma of trafficking and working in the sex trade in Kolkata.
Pip Rea
Master of International Development
The master's programme is a practical course, which has equipped me with the best skills and knowledge in development issues to increase my effectiveness in my future job and to contribute more to the sustainable development of Vietnam.
Ta Thi Tam Ha
Master of International Development
The staff were really friendly and approachable, and I studied with a great cohort of students from all over the world. My interactions with everyone broadened my understanding about development and the differences between the issues in Asia and other countries.
Vilayvanh Phonepraseuth
Master of Philosophy in Development Studies
Find out more about the departments and staff involved in development studies at Massey.
Some of our international students are funded by New Zealand Aid Scholarships for people from developing countries to study in New Zealand.
The Sustainable Development Goals Scholarship is for students who plan a career in sustainable development to enrol in the Master of Sustainable Development Goals programme.