School of Postgraduate Studies
Master of International and Sustainable Development (M.ISD)
The Master of International and Sustainable Development (MISD) at Miva Open University is designed for professionals and graduates who want to gain advanced knowledge in sustainable development, international policy, and global development strategies.
You will learn to design, implement, and evaluate development projects, understand global sustainability challenges, and develop strategies that promote social, economic, and environmental progress across diverse contexts.
Full Tuition
$845
Tuition Per Semester
$320
Introduction to Master of International and Sustainable Development (M.ISD)
Start Your Master’s in International and Sustainable Development
Gain advanced skills in international development and sustainability, and position yourself to lead initiatives that drive meaningful change globally. The MISD programme equips you with the knowledge, practical skills, and strategic insight needed to address complex development challenges, from climate action and social equity to economic growth and humanitarian aid.
Throughout the programme, you will gain in-depth knowledge in sustainable development policy, project design and management, environmental governance, social innovation, and international development frameworks. You will also explore ethical, cultural, and policy considerations that influence global development initiatives.
The MISD programme combines theory with hands-on projects, real-world case studies, and practical applications, ensuring that you graduate with both the technical expertise and the practical experience required for leadership roles in international development, sustainability, and global policy.
Why you should apply :
- Learn from experts and practitioners in sustainable development, international policy, and global governance.
- Gain practical, hands-on experience through real-world projects and development case studies.
- Study flexibly with an online learning structure designed for working professionals and graduates.
- Build in-demand skills in project management, policy analysis, environmental governance, and development strategy.
- Access digital libraries, academic resources, and dedicated success advisors throughout your programme.
- Join a growing network of development professionals, sustainability advocates, and global innovators.
- Graduate with skills highly relevant across NGOs, international organisations, government agencies, and development consultancies.
Study Level
Master of International and Sustainable Development (M.ISD)
Study Duration
3 Semesters
Mode of study
Blended Learning
Full Tuition
$845
Tuition Per Semester
$320
Applications for May 2026 admission is ongoing.
Apply before 31st May 2026, to secure your place.
Curriculum
Programme Outline
Our curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a variety of careers in the tech industry. The programme covers a wide range of topics, including programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and artificial intelligence.
- Faculty Support
- Digital Resources
- Career Services
- Student Community
Course Title
Status
International Development: Theory and Policy
C
This course examines the evolution, theories, and policy frameworks that shape international development practice. It introduces students to classical and contemporary development theories, the role of international institutions, global governance and policy tools used to address poverty, inequality, sustainability, and global development challenges. The course also explores development debates in the Global South, particularly Africa, and critically evaluates international development policies and programmes. Using case studies, policy analysis, and comparative perspectives, students will develop the skills required to assess development strategies and design evidence-based policy interventions.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Sustainable Development: Theory and Policy
C
This course examines the theoretical foundations and policy frameworks that shape sustainable development globally and within developing countries. It introduces students to major sustainability paradigms, environmental governance systems, and development policy instruments used to address economic, social, and environmental challenges. Particular attention is given to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with a focus on policy contexts in Africa and Nigeria. Students will critically analyse sustainability theories, evaluate policy strategies, and explore institutional and governance mechanisms required for sustainable development.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Political Economy of Global Development
C
This course examines the relationship between politics, economics, and power in shaping global development outcomes. It explores the historical evolution of development paradigms, global economic governance, international institutions, and the role of states, markets, and civil society in development processes. The course also analyses contemporary development challenges such as inequality, debt, globalisation, climate change, and sustainable development. Emphasis is placed on theoretical perspectives and empirical case studies from the Global South, particularly Africa and Nigeria.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Economics of Sustainable Development
C
This course examines the economic principles, theories, and policy frameworks underpinning sustainable development. It explores how economic systems interact with environmental resources and social systems, emphasising strategies for balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. Students will analyse global and local development challenges, particularly within developing economies such as Nigeria, and evaluate economic tools and policies that promote sustainability. The course also explores resource management, green growth, climate economics, and sustainable development financing.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
International Development Finance
C
This course explores the theoretical evolution and practical mechanisms of global funding. Students will analyse the roles of key financial institutions and evaluate diverse instruments, including public, private, and blended finance, used to combat poverty and inequality. The curriculum emphasises the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the unique challenges within the African and Nigerian contexts. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to critique development policies, assess the impact of international financial flows, and design innovative financing solutions to address contemporary development hurdles.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Global Governance, Policy and Institutions
C
This course examines the structures, actors, policies, and institutions that shape governance beyond the nation-state. It explores how global problems such as climate change, poverty, health crises, and conflict are addressed through international cooperation and institutional frameworks. Students will analyse the roles of states, international organisations, civil society, and private actors in shaping global governance systems. The course also critically assesses policy processes, institutional effectiveness, and governance challenges in achieving sustainable development.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
C – Core
E – Elective
Course Title
Status
Research Methods in International Development
C
This course introduces postgraduate students to the theoretical foundations and practical techniques of research in international and sustainable development. It equips students with the skills to design, conduct, and evaluate research addressing development challenges at local, national, and global levels. The course explores qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches, ethical issues in development research, data collection and analysis techniques, and the use of digital tools for research in open and distance learning contexts. Students will develop the capacity to produce rigorous research proposals relevant to development policy and practice.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Programme Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
C
This course introduces postgraduate students to the principles, tools and practical approaches used in programme planning, monitoring and evaluation (PME) within international and sustainable development contexts. It examines how development programmes are designed, implemented, monitored and evaluated to ensure accountability, effectiveness and sustainability. The course explores results-based management, logical framework analysis, theory of change, indicators, data collection methods, participatory monitoring, evaluation designs and learning systems. Special emphasis is placed on development programmes in Africa and other developing regions, digital monitoring systems, and evidence-based decision-making for sustainable development.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change
C
This course examines the scientific, socio-economic, and policy dimensions of environmental sustainability and climate change, with particular attention to developing countries and Nigeria. It explores global environmental challenges, climate science, sustainability principles, climate governance, adaptation and mitigation strategies, and sustainable development pathways. Students will critically analyse climate policies, sustainability frameworks, and environmental management approaches while evaluating practical strategies for achieving sustainable development goals in local and global contexts.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Gender, Inclusion and Social Protection
C
This course examines the intersection of gender, social inclusion, and social protection in the context of international and sustainable development. It explores how gender inequalities and social exclusion affect access to social protection systems and development opportunities. The course critically analyses policies, frameworks, and programmes aimed at promoting gender equality, inclusive development, and social protection in developing countries, particularly within the African and Nigerian contexts. Students will examine global and national frameworks, design inclusive social protection strategies, and evaluate development interventions through a gender-responsive lens.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Natural Resource Governance and Green Growth
C
This course examines the governance of natural resources and its relationship with green growth and sustainable development. It explores policies, institutions, and frameworks guiding the management of natural resources such as land, water, forests, minerals, and energy. The course emphasises transparency, accountability, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic growth. Special attention is given to governance challenges in developing countries, particularly Nigeria and Africa, and the role of international frameworks in promoting green growth pathways.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Global Security, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism
C
This course examines contemporary global security challenges with particular focus on terrorism and counter-terrorism strategies. It explores the conceptual foundations of security studies, the evolution of terrorism, drivers of radicalisation, and the implications of terrorism for sustainable development and international stability. The course also analyses counter-terrorism policies, international cooperation, intelligence systems, legal frameworks, and technological tools used to combat terrorism. Emphasis is placed on regional dynamics, particularly in Africa and Nigeria, and the relationship between security, governance, and sustainable development in a globalised world.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
C – Core
E – Elective
Course Title
Status
Dissertation/Project Report
C
This course guides postgraduate students through the full research cycle in international and sustainable development. Students develop competencies in identifying researchable problems, conducting rigorous literature reviews, designing appropriate methodologies, and collecting and analysing data. Emphasis is placed on integrating sustainability frameworks, including the SDGs, and applying ethical research practices. Students strengthen academic writing, referencing, and argumentation skills, culminating in the production of a well-structured dissertation or project report. The course concludes with preparation for the oral defence, equipping students to present and justify their findings to an academic audience.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Seminar Presentation
C
This course equips postgraduate students with advanced skills in academic and professional seminar presentation within the context of international and sustainable development. Students develop competencies in literature synthesis, structured argumentation, and the effective use of digital and visual communication tools for academic, policy, and community audiences. Emphasis is placed on clarity, academic integrity, and professional delivery across physical, virtual, and hybrid environments. Through peer review, constructive feedback, and practical presentation exercises, students gain confidence in scholarly discourse and are prepared to communicate complex development issues persuasively and responsibly.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
Internship
C
This course provides postgraduate students with structured practical exposure to professional development environments, bridging theoretical knowledge and real-world practice. Students engage with development organisations, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector actors to apply advanced concepts in sustainable development, policy analysis, and research methodology. Emphasis is placed on producing high-impact professional outputs, demonstrating ethical and intercultural competence, and utilising digital tools within physical, hybrid, or remote settings. Through critical reflective practice, students consolidate their academic learning, strengthen professional competencies, and position themselves effectively for careers in international and sustainable development.
Course Status
- Core course within the programme.
International Development and Sustainable Practice
E
This course critically examines the theories, policies, and practices of international development within the framework of sustainability. It explores global development challenges, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and the role of institutions, governance, and local contexts in shaping development outcomes. Emphasis is placed on practical, interdisciplinary approaches relevant to developing countries, particularly Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, within a digital learning environment.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
Global Governance, Policy and Human Security
E
This course examines the architecture of global governance systems and their intersection with public policy and human security. Students critically analyse theoretical frameworks, international institutions, and policy-making processes at global, regional, and national levels. Key themes include conflict, climate change, global health, migration, and inequality, with particular attention to Africa and Nigeria. Students evaluate the roles of state and non-state actors in addressing contemporary human security challenges and develop evidence-based policy recommendations. Digital governance and emerging global risks are also explored, equipping students to engage effectively with complex development and security issues in a digital learning environment.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
International Project Management and Evaluation
E
This course provides postgraduate students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in planning, implementing, managing, and evaluating international development projects. It emphasises global standards, cross-cultural considerations, sustainability principles, and digital project management tools relevant to development practice, particularly in emerging economies.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
Climate Change and Sustainable Development
E
This course examines the scientific, socio-economic, and political dimensions of climate change and their relationship to sustainable development. Students critically analyse global, regional, and national climate policy frameworks, evaluate impacts on key sectors including agriculture, water, health, and energy, and explore adaptation and mitigation strategies relevant to Nigeria and comparable developing contexts. Key themes include climate finance, the green economy, SDG integration, and policy coherence. Through evidence-based inquiry and digital tools, students develop practical competencies to design context-sensitive climate solutions and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development planning and policy formulation.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
Renewable Energy and Resource Management
E
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy systems and sustainable resource management in local, national, and international contexts. It emphasises the principles, technologies, policies, and socio-economic implications of renewable energy and explores strategies for managing natural resources to achieve sustainable development. Students will critically evaluate renewable energy technologies, assess environmental impacts, and develop frameworks for sustainable resource utilisation in both developed and developing country contexts.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
Environmental Policy, Protection and Governance
E
This course examines the principles, frameworks, and processes underpinning environmental policy formulation, implementation, and governance at local, national, and international levels. Students critically analyse the socio-economic, political, and ecological dimensions of environmental protection, evaluating relevant laws, governance structures, and institutional arrangements in Nigeria and globally. Key themes include climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution control, environmental economics, and stakeholder engagement. Through policy analysis tools, case studies, and monitoring frameworks, students develop practical competencies to propose evidence-based interventions and communicate effectively on environmental governance and sustainable resource management in academic and professional contexts.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
Development Theories and Concepts
E
This course provides an in-depth exploration of key theories, models, and concepts that have shaped the field of international development. Students will critically examine the evolution of development thinking, evaluate contemporary debates, and analyse the practical implications of development policies in global, regional, and local contexts. The course emphasises sustainable, inclusive, and equitable development approaches, preparing students to engage with real-world development challenges.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
Natural Resources and Sustainable Development
E
This course explores the sustainable management of natural resources within the broader framework of sustainable development. It examines the interrelationships between environmental, social, and economic systems, emphasising strategies for balancing resource use, conservation, and human development. The course adopts a global perspective while incorporating specific challenges and opportunities in Nigeria and other developing countries, emphasising policy, governance, and practical interventions.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
International Conflict, Peace Building and Development
E
This course examines the nature, causes, and dynamics of international and intra-state conflicts, exploring their interconnections with sustainable development and human security. Students critically analyse theoretical frameworks in conflict and peace studies, evaluate peacebuilding strategies, and assess mechanisms for conflict prevention, management, and resolution at global, regional, and local levels. Particular attention is given to development challenges in fragile and conflict-affected states, with focused case studies on Africa and Nigeria. Through conflict analysis tools and interdisciplinary approaches, students develop practical competencies to design conflict-sensitive development policies and propose contextually relevant peacebuilding strategies.
Course Status
- Elective course within the programme.
C – Core
E – Elective
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements for Master of International and Sustainable Development (M.ISD)
Entry Requirements for Master of International and Sustainable Development (M.ISD)
Here’s what you need to study for the Master of International and Sustainable Development (M.ISD) programme at Miva Open University
- A Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division)
- Open to graduates from diverse disciplines, including: Development Studies, Economics, Political Science, Public Policy, Business, Sociology and related fields
- HND holders must possess a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) from a recognised institution
- Relevant professional or work experience is an added advantage.
Careers
Potential Roles for Master of International and Sustainable Development (M.ISD) Degree Holders
- Development Project Manager
- Sustainability Consultant
- Policy Analyst
- International Program Officer
- Environmental & Social Impact Analyst
- NGO Project Coordinator
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
- Humanitarian Affairs Specialist
- Climate Change Analyst
- Global Development Consultant
Tuition
Payment Plans
Miva Open University offers a flexible payment plan for its degree programmes. You may choose to pay the year’s fee or per semester.
Tuition Per Semester
$320
/Semester
- Pay Per Semester.
- No hidden charges.
- No additional costs.
Full Tuition
$845
/Session
- Pay full tuition
- No hidden charges.
- No additional costs.
* Discount applies for full year’s payment
FAQ
Common Inquiries About the MISD Programme
We’ve answered the most common questions prospective MISD candidates ask.
Is Miva Open University licensed by the NUC?
Yes. Miva Open University is a degree-awarding institution licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC). All programmes, including the MISD, meet approved academic quality standards.
What is the Master of International and Sustainable Development (MISD)?
The MISD is a postgraduate programme focused on developing advanced knowledge and applied skills in sustainable development, international policy, project management, and global development strategy.
Who is the MISD programme designed for?
It is designed for graduates and professionals in social sciences, environmental studies, public policy, economics, international relations, or related fields who want to build careers in development, sustainability, or global policy.
What are the entry requirements for the MISD?
Applicants are typically expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, development studies, environmental science, economics, political science, or a related discipline. Relevant experience in development work, NGOs, or public policy is an advantage but not mandatory.
How long does the MISD programme take?
The programme is structured over a defined number of semesters, allowing students to complete coursework and applied projects while balancing work or other commitments.
Do I need work experience to apply?
Work experience is not required, but applicants with exposure to NGOs, development organisations, public policy, or sustainability projects may benefit more from the programme.
Is the programme fully online?
Yes. The MISD is delivered fully online, allowing students to study from anywhere without physical attendance.
How are assessments conducted?
Assessments include coursework, case studies, applied research projects, and development-focused evaluations based on real-world global challenges.
Can I specialise within the MISD programme?
Yes. Students can focus their learning in areas such as sustainable development policy, environmental governance, international project management, humanitarian development, or social impact strategy.
What skills will I gain from the MISD programme?
You will develop skills in project design, policy analysis, sustainability planning, environmental and social governance, international development strategy, monitoring and evaluation, and impact assessment.
What career opportunities are available after the MISD?
Graduates can pursue roles such as Development Project Manager, Sustainability Consultant, Policy Analyst, International Program Officer, NGO Project Coordinator, CSR Manager, Humanitarian Affairs Specialist, Climate Change Analyst, and Global Development Consultant.
Can I study while working?
Yes. The programme is designed for flexibility, allowing students to combine study with professional or field-based work.
How much is the MISD tuition fee?
Tuition is structured to remain accessible while maintaining academic quality. Full fee details are provided during the application process.
What support will I receive as a student?
You will have access to academic resources, structured learning materials, and dedicated student support throughout your programme.
Can international students apply?
Yes. The MISD is open to both local and international applicants who meet the admission requirements.