Studies
Dual Bachelor's Degrees
School of Engineering and Management
Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and Business Administration and Management Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and Business Administration and Management Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology and Business Administration and Management Dual Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Industrial Engineering and Business Administration and Management Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management and MarketingMaster's Degrees
School of Engineering
Master’s Degree in Analytical Chemistry Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering Master’s Degree in Bioengineering Master’s Degree in Biopharmaceutical Business Master’s Degree in Cosmetics and FragrancesSchool of Management
Master’s Degree in International Marketing in a Digital Environment Master’s Degree in Wealth and Financial Management Master’s Degree in Industrial Business Management Master's Degree in Neuromarketing Master's Degree in Accounting, Data Analytics and ESG Reporting Master in Applied International DevelopmentDual Master’s Degree
School of Engineering and Management
Dual Master’s Degree in Analytical Chemistry and Industrial Business Management Dual Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Industrial Business Management Dual Master’s Degree in Bioengineering and Industrial Business Management Dual Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and Industrial Business Management Dual Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Industrial Business Management Dual Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Chemical Engineering Dual Master’s Degree in Biopharmaceutical Business and Bioengineering Dual Master’s Degree in Biopharmaceutical Business and Pharmaceutical ChemistryPhD
Executive Education
Másters
Máster en Dirección de Operaciones Máster en Dirección de Compras Estratégicas Máster en Dirección de Empresas Hoteleras Máster en Organización de Eventos y Turismo de Negocios Máster en NeuromarketingPosgrados
Posgrado en Ingenería de Plantas Farmacéuticas Posgrado Product & Process Engineering Managament Posgrado Manufacturing Plant Leadership Posgrado Global Logistics & Supply Chain Management Posgrado en Gestión Estratégica de Compras (MIP) Posgrado en Perfumes y Fragancias, Mercado y Aplicaciones Posgrado Dirección Avanzada del Laboratorio de Calidad Posgrado en Tecnología de Pinturas Posgrado en Gobierno y Dirección de la Pyme (Vértice)Master in Applied International Development
The Master’s Degree in Applied International Development is designed to train professionals who are able to analyse, implement, and evaluate strategies that promote equitable and sustainable human development at both global and local levels. The programme combines theoretical and hands-on work to prepare students to tackle development challenges in diverse contexts, integrating social, environmental, and political perspectives. The course includes economic development methodologies, human development tools such as the Human Development Index (HDI) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as specialized training in environmental analysis, microeconometrics, and the application of neuroscience in public policy. Students will participate in field projects and internships that allow them to apply the knowledge they acquire in real-world settings, preparing them to lead initiatives with a positive and lasting impact on society.
Key information about the Master’s Degree in Applied International Development
Courses
1 academic year
Credits
60 ECTS credits
Start date
October 2026
Schedule
Monday to Thursday from 3:30 pm to 9:00 pm and Friday from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Language
English
Why Study Applied International Development at IQS?
Advanced knowledge in various development methodologies including economic, human, and environmental approaches.
International fieldwork.
Study of sustainability aspects and regulations applicable to international development.
Management strategies for international development projects.
Connections with international agencies and NGOs.
Research Lines
Students can conduct their Master Thesis within the research lines of the different IQS research groups or carry it out in connection with research projects from development agencies or organizations.
Training Lines
The training lines of the Master’s Degree in Applied International Development are designed to cover the key areas needed to tackle global challenges from a multidisciplinary perspective. The lines adapted to the context of international development are:
- Development Theories and Methodologies: Gain a deeper understanding of the various economic, social, and political theories that underpin development practices.
- Project Analysis and Evaluation: Learn about techniques for analysing and controlling the quality and effectiveness of development projects.
- International Cooperation Management: Work on business models and the operational management of organizations working in international development.
- Public Policy and Regulation: Study international regulations, public policies, and regulatory mechanisms affecting international development.
These training lines are designed to ensure that students gain a deep and practical understanding of how development policies, strategies, and actions can be effectively and responsibly designed and implemented.
| Subject | ECTS | Typology |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Development Methodologies | 6 | Mandatory |
| Human Development Tools: From HDI to SDGs | 6 | Mandatory |
| Environmental Degradation Measures | 6 | Mandatory |
| Sustainability Sciences | 6 | Mandatory |
| Subject | ECTS | Typology |
|---|---|---|
| Microeconometrics of Human Development | 6 | Mandatory |
| Neuroscience of Public Policy and Development | 6 | Mandatory |
| Applied Foundations of the Capability Approach | 6 | Mandatory |
| Subject | ECTS | Typology |
|---|---|---|
| Global Economic Dynamics | 3 | Elective |
| Strategic Tools for Local Development | 3 | Elective |
| Economic Transition in Spain: Escaping the Middle-Income Trap | 3 | Elective |
| Aporophobia: Rejection of the Poor | 3 | Elective |
| The Chinese Development Model | 3 | Elective |
| Happiness Indicators | 3 | Elective |
| Environmental Ethics | 3 | Elective |
| Sustainable Finance and ESG | 3 | Elective |
| Gender and Inclusive Development [Occupied Palestinian Territories] | 3 | Elective |
| Education and Human Development | 3 | Elective |
| Subject | ECTS | Typology |
|---|---|---|
| International Fieldwork | 6 | Elective |
| Domestic Fieldwork | 6 | Elective |
| Subject | ECTS | Typology |
|---|---|---|
| Master Thesis | 6 | Mandatory |
*Students must complete 12 ECTS corresponding to elective courses.
Admissions Requirements:
University Degree: Hold an official bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an educational system that grants access to postgraduate studies in the issuing country. Studies should preferably be in areas such as Business Administration, Economics, Marketing, Communication, Politics, or related fields.
English Level: Demonstrate a minimum B2 level or equivalent of English as the programme involves working with materials and instruction in English.
Merit Evaluation: The Admissions Committee will review the candidate’s academic record, curriculum vitae, and other professional merits that may influence the admissions decision.
Personal Interview: Candidates must attend a personal interview with a member of the programme advisory committee to assess their motivation, prior experience, and suitability for the program.
Letter of Motivation: Submit a letter of motivation explaining why the candidate wishes to pursue this master’s degree and how it aligns with their professional goals. The Admissions Committee will review each application and, if necessary, determine any required supplementary coursework based on the candidate’s previous studies.
The Master’s Degree in Applied International Development provides comprehensive education that prepares students to effectively join various sectors related to international development. This complete training ensures high employability and opportunities for career advancement in diverse fields through practical learning and collaboration with key organizations.
Professional Opportunities by Area – Master’s Degree in Applied International Development
-
Project Development Management
Project Development Management
Coordination and leadership of projects in NGOs, development agencies, and government departments.
-
Policy Analysis and Public Policy
Policy Analysis and Public Policy
Policy analysis, strategic planning, and impact evaluation in international organizations and think tanks.
-
Sustainability and Environment
Sustainability and Environment
Development and implementation of sustainable projects in companies and environmental consultancies.
-
Education and Training
Education and Training
Education and human development training, focusing on building local capacities and community empowerment.
-
International and Humanitarian Cooperation
International and Humanitarian Cooperation
Work in organizations managing humanitarian aid and international cooperation programmes.
Professional Opportunities by Profile – Master’s Degree in Applied International Development
-
International Development Consultant
International Development Consultant
Specialize in strategic recommendations for governments and NGOs.
-
Programme Director
Programme Director
Management and supervision of development programme implementation at local and international levels.
-
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analyst
Focus on analysing and developing policies that promote sustainable development.
-
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
Lead sustainability initiatives within companies or the public sector.
-
International Cooperation Coordinator
International Cooperation Coordinator
Coordinate projects and international relations in organizations working in international development.
These professional opportunities reflect the broad spectrum of possibilities that graduates of the Master’s Degree in Applied International Development can expect, with the ability to tackle global challenges from an innovative and sustainable perspective.
Fieldwork
The Master’s Degree in Applied International Development includes mandatory fieldwork worth 6 ECTS, a distinguishing feature of this programme that sets it apart from other international development master’s degrees in Spain and Europe. Fieldwork in real development environments provides students with direct and applied experience in international development challenges and dynamics.
The master’s degree offers enriching fieldwork experiences at international destinations, allowing students to deepen their real-world learning in locations such as:
- Suzhou, China
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Los Baños, Philippines
- San Salvador, El Salvador
- Porto Alegre, Brazil
Importance of Fieldwork
- Applied experience
- Professional skills
- Labour market competitiveness
- Professional connections
- Unique educational advantage
This practical approach not only better prepares students for real-world challenges in their careers but also emphasizes the programme’s commitment to an education that goes beyond theory to embrace hands-on application that is essential for creating a positive and sustainable impact in the world.