Master in Systemic Development Practices

MASTER IN
SYSTEMIC DEVELOPMENT
PRACTICES

Program Overview

Award : Master in Systemic Development Practices

The program is designed around three core “Stem” courses, a Specialisation course, and a Master’s thesis:

Total Credit Hours: 120 ECTS

Program Duration: 2 years (4 semesters + thesis)

Mode of learning: Blended learning (online, on-site intensive sessions, and self-directed study via Moodle)

Course Overview

The program is designed around three core “Stem” courses, a Specialisation course, and a Master’s thesis:

Talent Forge in Advocacy (TFA) Focuses on advocacy system design, collective intelligence, ethical influencing, communication, and systems thinking.
Nexus in Diplomacy (NID) Covers diplomatic action, communication power, navigating polarisation, ethics in politics/business, and geopolitical mapping.
Venture Vault in Entrepreneurship (VVE) Develops skills in business modelling, sustainability, leadership, stakeholder engagement, and project/process management.
Specialisation Course Elective courses tailored to contemporary development issues.
Diploma Thesis A practical, real-world project contributing to sustainable development or entrepreneurial innovation.

Learning objectives

• Apply systemic thinking to social, political, and business environments

• Build practical advocacy, diplomacy, and business skills

• Lead complex, multicultural and ethical initiatives

• Implement strategic, evidence-based and innovative solutions

• Communicate and collaborate effectively in diverse environments

Target Audience

• Mid-career professionals and managers

• Aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs

• Business executives and policymakers

• Career changers aiming for development-related roles

• Consultants and advisors in global or local contexts

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• International organisations and NGOs

• Diplomacy and policy advisory

• Social enterprise and sustainable business

• Public sector innovation

• Consultancy and strategic communications

• Leadership roles in advocacy, business, or development sectors

Curriculum Structure

Semester 1:
Stem Course: Talent Forge in Advocacy (TFA)
– Topics: Advocacy systems, collective intelligence, communication, SDGs

Semester 2:
Stem Course: Nexus in Diplomacy (NID)
– Topics: Diplomacy, dialogue, polarisation, conspiracies, geopolitics

Semester 3:
Stem Course: Venture Vault in Entrepreneurship (VVE) + Specialisation Course
– Topics: Business models, sustainability, leadership, fundraising

Dissertation:
Master’s thesis focused on real-world systemic challenges or business opportunities inspired by the 17 SDGs.

Assessment Methods

• Continuous assessment through assignments and projects

• Participation in virtual classrooms and on-site sessions

• Submission of a Learning Activity Report (LAR)

• Master’s thesis evaluated by faculty and external experts

• ECTS-based workload tracking (1 ECTS ≈ 25–30 hours of study)