Master in Management of Development

Master in Management of Development (ed. 2021-2022)
Photo © ILO

Master in Management of Development

1 November 2024–31 October 2025
The course is available in English

Enhance your expertise in sustainable development with our Master in Management of Development. This comprehensive, blended course, offered by the University of Turin and ITCILO offers a mix of online learning and an immersive residential phase in Turin, with opportunities to engage with international experts and peers. Ideal for development professionals, the program covers key topics such as project management, results-based strategies, and sustainable transformation. Advance your career with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

Key features
Holistic curriculum

Explore sustainable development through a well-rounded curriculum that covers theoretical frameworks, practical management strategies, and interdisciplinary approaches to addressing global challenges.

Global insight

Gain knowledge from leading experts, academics, and practitioners associated with ITCILO, the University of Turin, and international organizations like the ILO and UNCTAD.

 

Experiential learning

Engage in real-world case studies, collaborative workshops, and interactive exercises to apply your skills and deepen your understanding of development management.

 

Blended learning approach

Benefit from a flexible learning format that combines online coursework with a dynamic residential phase in Turin, offering a comprehensive educational experience.

Introduction to the Master

Are you ready to elevate your career in sustainable development? Our Master's programme, offered in collaboration with the University of Turin and ITCILO, provides an in-depth and practical education designed for professionals dedicated to advancing global development. This comprehensive programme delivers specialized knowledge and skills essential for managing and leading development initiatives. With a curriculum that integrates theoretical frameworks, practical management techniques, and interdisciplinary approaches, you'll be equipped to tackle complex development challenges. Join a global community of professionals and immerse yourself in a dynamic learning experience that combines online study with an enriching residential phase in Turin. Engage with top experts, participate in hands-on exercises, and gain the insights needed to drive impactful change in sustainable development. Discover how our Master's programme can enhance your capabilities and propel your career in the field of development management.

Who attends this Master?

Our Master's programme in Management of Development attracts a diverse range of professionals from various sectors dedicated to enhancing their expertise in sustainable development. Participants typically include: - Development practitioners: Experienced professionals from public and private institutions and NGOs, seeking to deepen their knowledge and refine their skills in development management. - Government officials and policy makers: Individuals from ministries and regulatory bodies focused on shaping and implementing effective development policies and strategies. - Project managers and coordinators: Specialists involved in international development projects who need advanced training in project cycle management and results-based strategies. - Corporate and non-profit consultants: Advisors working on development initiatives who aim to broaden their understanding of development frameworks and enhance their practical skills. - Recent graduates: New entrants to the development field seeking a comprehensive foundation in development management and practical experience through a structured academic programme. - Staff from international organizations: Employees from entities such as the UN, ILO, and other development-focused organizations requiring advanced insights into global development practices and project management.

Master in Numbers
18
Editions
550+
Participants
80
Countries
Methodology

The Master in Management of Development uses a dynamic approach to provide essential skills and knowledge for effective development management. Combining theoretical insights with practical applications, the programme offers a comprehensive understanding of development within a global context.

Leveraging a blended learning format, the programme integrates flexible online coursework with an immersive residential phase in Turin. Participants engage in interactive lectures, seminars, and workshops led by distinguished experts, with a focus on practical experience through case studies, real-world assignments, and hands-on project work.

Advanced tools such as virtual simulations and interactive online resources enhance the learning experience. The final project, where participants develop a detailed project proposal, allows for the application of acquired knowledge. Throughout, dedicated tutors provide continuous support to ensure academic and professional success.

Assessment

The Master in Management of Development employs diverse assessment methods to evaluate participants' understanding and skills. 

Written exams test comprehension of core concepts and development frameworks, while practical assignments, including case studies and project simulations, allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Participants undertake individual and group projects that address specific development challenges, requiring in-depth research and solution formulation. Oral presentations assess their communication skills and ability to convey complex development issues effectively.

Continuous assessment through quizzes, interactive discussions, and active participation in workshops ensures consistent engagement and progress. The programme concludes with a final project where participants develop a comprehensive proposal, demonstrating their ability to apply acquired concepts to practical development challenges.

Duration, language and venue

The Master in Management of Development spans one year and is organized into three distinct phases: online learning, a mandatory residential phase, and a final project and research component.

The programme is conducted in English, so proficiency in the language is essential for participation.

The first phase involves flexible online coursework, allowing participants to study at their own pace. The second phase includes a mandatory residential period at the International Training Centre of the ILO (ITCILO) in Turin, Italy, providing an immersive learning experience with in-person instruction. The final phase focuses on project development and research, typically completed in a hybrid format that combines remote work with online support from faculty.

Structured learning schedule

The Master in Management of Development provides a structured and practical learning experience divided into three key phases:

  • Duration: 4 months  
  • Focus: Establishing a strong foundation in development management, including theoretical frameworks, socio-economic policies, and project management tools.
  • Activities: Online lectures, interactive webinars, case studies, and collaborative assignments.
  • Duration: 2.5 months 
  • Location: ITCILO campus in Turin, Italy  
  • Focus: Intensive training on human rights, inequalities, sustainability, and project management, ending with a comprehensive project document.
  • Activities: Seminars, workshops led by experts, practical exercises, and group projects.
  • Duration: 5.5 months  
  • Focus: Application of development concepts through a research project or dissertation, addressing current development challenges.
  • Activities: Development of a final project proposal, independent research, and ongoing online support and mentorship from faculty.
  • Duration: 1 month  
  • Focus: Comprehensive assessment of acquired knowledge and skills.  
  • Activities: Written and practical exams, oral defense of the dissertation, and issuance of the Master’s degree upon successful completion.
Objectives

The Master in Management of Development provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of development management by integrating socio-economic policies, legal frameworks, and managerial practices. The programme focuses on sustainable development strategies, results-based management, and the interplay of cultural, political, and environmental factors, equipping participants with critical skills for planning, implementing, and evaluating development projects.

Leveraging expertise from leading academics and practitioners, the programme employs innovative learning methods such as interactive case studies and real-world assignments. This approach addresses contemporary development challenges and fosters the growth of skilled development professionals, while also offering valuable networking opportunities for sharing knowledge and best practices across diverse sectors and regions.

What are the topics?

The Master addresses a number of critical questions confronting development practitioners and planners like:

  • What are the defining characteristics of sustainable development? Which issues and processes can be identified behind this broad concept?
  • How to plan and manage project interventions to achieve development objectives?
  • What is results-based management and how is it applied in the development context?
  • What policies and strategies may contribute to sustainable transformations in terms of cultural, political, social, economic and environmental changes?
Faculty

The Master in Management of Development boasts a distinguished faculty dedicated to advancing the field of development management. Our team includes leading academics, seasoned practitioners, and experts from prominent international organizations. This exceptional blend of expertise ensures a rich educational experience, combining theoretical foundations with practical insights into global development practices and emerging challenges.

In campus
5 reasons to choose the Turin School of Development
  • 1. Global expertise and diverse faculty: TSD boasts a faculty comprising leading university professors, senior practitioners, and UN experts from over 80 renowned institutions worldwide. This diverse team ensures a rich, multidisciplinary educational experience that integrates global knowledge with practical expertise.
  • 2. Innovative and sustainable learning: TSD’s programmes are designed to be cutting-edge, incorporating the latest technological advancements and sustainable practices. The combination of distance learning, face-to-face interaction, and applied project work minimizes participants’ absence from their professional duties while maximizing learning outcomes.
  • 3. Strong connection with UN and specialized agencies: As part of the International Training Centre of the ILO, TSD leverages its unique position within the UN system. This connection provides unparalleled access to specialized knowledge and enhances the comparative advantage of its Master’s programmes in areas such as human rights, social justice, and sustainable development.
  • 4. Comprehensive career preparation: TSD graduates are equipped with the essential competencies needed for careers in international organizations, governments, and NGOs. The programmes blend academic rigor with practical application, preparing students to tackle contemporary challenges in fields like international development, social innovation, and technology and public policy.
  • 5. Multicultural and international environment: With participants from all over the world, TSD offers a truly global learning experience. Students broaden their horizons, enhance their managerial skills, and build a strong professional network by interacting with peers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. 

Choosing TSD means joining a community dedicated to advancing social justice and sustainable development through high-quality, innovative education.

Partners
Unito
University of Turin

The University of Turin is one of the most ancient and prestigious Italian Universities. Hosting over 74.000 students and with 120 buildings in different areas in Turin and in key places in Piedmont, the University of Turin can be considered as “city-within-a-city”, promoting culture and producing research, innovation, training and employment.

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

UNCTAD is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1964. Headquarters are located in Geneva, Switzerland, and we have offices in New York and Addis Ababa. 

It supports developing countries to access the benefits of a globalized economy more fairly and effectively. It helps equip them to deal with the potential drawbacks of greater economic integration. To do this, it provides analysis, facilitate consensus-building, and offer technical assistance. This helps them to use trade, investment, finance, and technology as vehicles for inclusive and sustainable development.

How to enroll
  • Apply: Use the Apply now button, above, to fill out the application form. 
  • Confirmation: Successful candidates will receive confirmation, guidelines, and an invoice from the Centre.
  • Payment: Secure your place by making the required payment, due at least 14 days before the course starts. 
  • Cancellation: If you need to cancel, notify us at least 14 days before the course start date to avoid penalties.

For more details on applications, payments, and cancellation policies, please refer to our Practical Information section or contact admissions@itcilo.org for general inquiries.

Alumni quotes
 

The depth and scope of this programme equipped me to deliver impactful projects among migrant workers in Myanmar and Thailand. The blend of classroom learning and real-world experience was truly empowering

Esther Lian Za Vung
2021/2022 edition
 

The global exposure and experience I gained from this programme were instrumental in advancing my career. It helped me secure a senior management position with the International Organization for Migration shortly after graduation.

Sonya Syafitri
Indonesia, 2016/2017 edition
 

The interactive classwork and team projects provided a unique opportunity to learn from both peers and experts. The programme’s focus on practical application and best practice sharing was exceptional.

Guled Said
Somaliland, 2013/2014 edition
Interested in learning more?

Email us to discover more about this Masters programme. You can also schedule a virtual meeting with one of our representatives.

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