The Anthropology and Development Studies (ADS) Master in Nijmegen has a unique interdisciplinary approach, which combines fine-grained analysis of local issues with an assessment of possible avenues for change. This programme allows you to conduct your own research project in one of three thematic domains – diversity, nature or civil society – and teaches you how to communicate your findings to various audiences.

Anthropology and Development Studies: Something for you?

• This unique interdisciplinary Master's programme allows you to specialise in one of three ‘hot’ domains that encompass urgent social issues and are subject to intense academic debate.
• Our small scale programme offers an intensive learning environment where you work closely with your peers and our expert staff.
• By learning to design and conduct your own research, and communicate your findings to various audiences, you develop a skills set that prepares you for a wide array of jobs.
• You are stimulated to design your research in dialogue with NGO’s, municipalities or other stake holders, which provides you with work experience and a crucial network.
• Our extensive international network offers you plenty of opportunities to arrange a research project that meets your interests, in the Netherlands or across the globe.

What will you learn?

While anthropology has mostly focused on studying the complexity and diversity of life worlds, development studies is commonly concerned with processes of social transformation related to social exclusion and inequality. The Master’s programme in Anthropology and Development Studies incorporates both perspectives. ADS students are trained to apply their scientific, critical, analytical and reflective skills to make concrete contributions to society, using a mixed methods or ethnographic approach. In the first semester, you develop your own research project in one of three thematic domains:

• Living and governing diversity
• Living with nature: socio-ecological resilience and ruptures
• Mobilising change: citizens’ initiatives and institutional responses

After three months of fieldwork you write up your findings, not only in the form of an academic thesis, but also as a policy brief that you can share with relevant stakeholders.