1st study semester

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The courses during the first study semester of the MAS ETH in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development impart basic theoretical and empirical knowledge about social, economic, political and environmental development processes. The five compulsory courses cover the five dimensions of sustainable development. Elective courses offer students the opportunity to study selected topics in-depth.

  • Cultural and Social Aspects of Development
  • Development Economics
  • Politics and Governance
  • History and Forms of International Development Cooperation
  • Environment and Resources
  • Food Security and Agriculture
  • Water, Sanitation and Waste
  • Health and Health Systems
  • Justice and Normative Aspects
  • Applied Statistics and Policy Evaluation
  • Sustainable Development: Bridging Art and Science
  • etc.

In addition, a number of workshops prepare students for their on-the-job training: from project cycle management, working in intercultural teams, personal resilience, safety and security, to negotiation and moderation. The semester kicks off with three days in a small mountain village (in September 2024) where students are introduced to the MAS programme. This retreat offers students and teachers the opportunity to get to know each other and discuss their interests in an informal setting.

Portrait of Melchior Lengsfeld

NADEL graduates excel at many qualities sought after in international cooperation, including solid methodological skills, a strong sense of personal responsibility and dedication, and a deep understanding of local and global realities. These are precisely the skills HELVETAS is looking for for our teams. We have had very good experiences with NADEL graduates in the MAS on-the-job training and employment.”

Melchior Lengsfeld, Executive Director, HELVETAS and NADEL alumnus

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