Master of International Community Development at Victoria University

Overview

Become a leader in social change, human rights and sustainable development at a global or local level, with the Master of International Community Development.

This unique, popular program offers you a personalised education. It includes practical on-site learning and deep engagement with communities and experts in the field. The perfect mix of study and practical experience will have you job-ready for a fulfilling career.

Key study areas include:

• critical consciousness and ethics of development
• community development project design and management
• participatory research and evaluation
• globalisation and social movements
• leadership in community development
• impacts of Trump and Brexit on governance of international organisations
• conflict resolution and peace-building.

We're one of the few universities in Australia that offers regional and contextual studies (e.g. on Latin America, Africa and Asia).

Postgraduate academic learning advice

As a postgraduate student you might want to take up one of many opportunities to further develop your academic language and study skills. VU’s Learning Hubs are welcoming spaces where you can improve your study and employability skills.

We offer maths, writing, careers and English-language advice and show you effective ways to study and manage your time.

Our programs include:

• workshops
• drop-in sessions
• peer mentoring
• maths and writing resources
• resume and career guidance.

Careers in community development

Graduates find work in many related areas, including international humanitarian and development aid.

Careers include:

• international and regional consultant in human rights, gender, poverty reduction and project evaluation
• project manager with international, government and local organisations such as Australian Red Cross, Save the Children, Asylum Seekers Resources Centre
• leaders and advisers in government
• community development educator and trainer
• journalist
• activist
• academic and researcher.

Salaries

The average salary for community workers is A$63,800. With further work experience, you could become a policy or planning manager, earning an average A$122,460

Partnerships & international travel

Our partnerships with educational, business and community organisations offer important research opportunities. We have agreements with other universities and NGOs, such as the National University of Timor Leste (UNTL). These give you fantastic options to learn and travel.

Students studying international development at VU have completed placements in the following countries:

• Timor Leste
• Fiji
• Cambodia
• Thailand
• Malaysia
• India
• Bangladesh
• Mauritius
• Kenya
• Botswana.