Leadership for Development
The Master of Arts (MA) in Leadership for Development at the University of Manchester is a two-year, part-time, online program designed for professionals looking to develop leadership skills in the context of international development. The program explores the challenges and opportunities of leading development initiatives in diverse cultural and political settings, focusing on key areas such as governance, community development, and sustainable development.
The program offers the flexibility of part-time, online study, making it ideal for individuals working in the development sector. Students will gain critical skills in leadership, strategic decision-making, and project management, preparing them to take on leadership roles in international organizations, NGOs, or government agencies focused on global development issues.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Master of Arts (MA) in Leadership for Development
- Degree Type: Master of Arts (MA)
- Duration: 2 Years
- Mode of Study: Part-time, Online
- Application Deadline: 5th August 2026
- Location: University of Manchester, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: International Development
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Leadership and Development
- Introduction to Leadership and Management in Development
- Theories and Concepts of Development
- Globalization and its Impact on Development
- Research Methods for Development Studies
Semester 2 – Leadership Practices in Development
- Leadership and Governance in Development Organizations
- Strategies for Effective Development Leadership
- Understanding Development Policy and Practice
- Monitoring and Evaluation in Development Programs
Semester 3 – Advanced Topics in Leadership and Development
- Sustainable Development and Leadership
- Conflict, Peacebuilding, and Development Leadership
- Gender, Equality, and Development Leadership
- Organizational Leadership in International Development
Semester 4 – Final Project and Independent Research
- Leadership in Action: Case Studies from Development Contexts
- Independent Research Project in Leadership for Development
- Policy Analysis and Strategic Leadership in Development
- Final Dissertation Preparation and Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Leadership for Development MA program at the University of Manchester will be well-prepared for senior roles in international development, NGOs, government agencies, and private sector organizations focused on development. With specialized knowledge in leadership strategies, development policy, and program management, graduates can pursue careers as development managers, project coordinators, policy advisors, consultants, or program directors. Employers include international development organizations, multilateral agencies, research institutes, humanitarian NGOs, and government bodies. Graduates may also choose to continue their academic journey with a PhD in international development or related fields, such as global governance or sustainable development.
Why Choose This Program
The Leadership for Development MA program at the University of Manchester offers a flexible and global perspective on leadership in the context of international development. Designed for professionals working in or aspiring to roles in development, this part-time, online program allows students to balance work and study while gaining critical skills in leadership, policy formulation, and program implementation. The program emphasizes practical leadership strategies, ethical decision-making, and the ability to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and sustainability. By the end of the program, students will have gained the theoretical foundations and practical tools needed to lead development projects, advocate for policy change, and make a lasting impact in global development efforts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)161 306 6000
Email: admissions@manchester.ac.uk
Address: University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
