The primary objective in designing this graduate programme in development studies to provide policy-makers with effective tools and techniques for careful, comprehensive and skillful analysis of the socio-economic and political environment, in order to arrive at more accurate analysis of constraints on development, and subsequently direct policy-making in a manner that helps remove those constraints.

It is thus expected that upon the successful completion of the courses under the Development Studies programme, which will in the main, be directed at problem-solution, participants will be in a position at different levels analysis, formulate and direct policy-making to:

• Development Concerns in Ghana
• The study and Practice Of Development

                                         TARGET GROUP

The graduate courses in development studies will be directed mainly at upper middle-level policy-makers.  These are generally mid-career public servants employed by the different departments and ministries concerned with development policy and programmes.

Aside from this group, the courses are also expected to be beneficial to project officers in both commercial and development banks; non-governmental developmental organizations; including those sponsored by donor agencies and church groups, etc.; aspiring university teachers and researchers; and local government development personnel.

                               DEGREES TO BE AWARDED AND REQUIREMENTS

Two types of graduate degrees will be awarded:  The first is an M. A. (Development studies) after completing successfully 6 core courses, 1 (one) optional course, and a long essay.  This programme will be recommended for staff of public institutions such as the National Development Planning Commission, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Ministry of Local Government and other public institutions involved with development planning.  After completing the M.A. programme, candidates who obtain an average grade of B+ or higher may be given admission into an M. Phil programme.  The M. Phil (Development Studies) degree will be awarded after the completion of 1 elective course, a seminar and a thesis.  The M. Phil programme will be recommended for students planning to make a career in teaching/research and may therefore intend to pursue doctorate degrees later.

                                             DURATION OF PROGRAMME

The M.A. programme will run for 12 months in each year, and the M.Phil programme will run for a minimum of 12 months, beyond the M.A. programme.