MPhil in Development Studies specialising in Urban Challenges in East Afr

See also Master of Philosophy in Development Studies - specialising in Geography.

For the first time in world history, 2008 saw a majority of the global human population living in urban areas. Urban growth poses specific development challenges.

MPhil in Development Studies, specialising in Urban Challenges in East Africa provides a wide knowledge base for understanding issues related to the development and challenges of urban areas in East Africa. Whilst focusing on a specific regional context, the issues covered are relevant for urban issues world wide. As such, the programme focuses on issues related to

• The role of various sectors and actors in urban planning
• Urban livelihoods and poverty
• Urban environmental issues
• The informalization of the urban economy
• The dysfunctionsments of public and administrative urban service
• Urban land tenure issues

Empirical examples, exercises and assignments build on studies and development strategies of the South, and particularly East African cities or urban areas. Further, the programme encourages interdisciplinary thinking. This is sought through an interdisciplinary introductory course and elective courses offered by several different departments at both NTNU and AAU.

This master programme is collaboration between the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and Addis Ababa University (AAU) in Ethiopia. Students spend the first semester at NTNU, Trondheim. The second and the third semesters are spent at Addis Ababa University (AAU) in Ethiopia, whilst the fourth and final semester is spent at NTNU.

The programme is structured around three core courses, different elective courses (some of which are offered by other Departments) and the writing of a Master’s thesis. The thesis is a substantial individual research project which will have a focus on urban development and challenges in East Africa. Students will carry out field work in East Africa between the second and the third semester.

PRACTICAL ISSUES

Housing and living costs in Addis Ababa

AAU will provide housing, but the rent must be paid by the students. Estimated costs: NOK 2500 per month. Monthly living costs in Addis Ababa, besides housing, are estimated to NOK 2000.

Travel

Students have to pay for travel to Ethiopia themselves as well as travel preparations (i.e visa and vaccination). Part of the expenses will be covered by Statens lånekasse for utdanning.