International development

Why study international development?

We offer an active intellectual and practical environment for students of international development. La Trobe University is home to the Centre for Human Security and Social Change, and also hosts the La Trobe Refugee Research Centre. The College consists of dedicated researchers and teachers, some of whom are leaders in their field. The College has regional and country expertise – including China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, South Asia, the Pacific, Latin America and Africa.

Students enrolling full-time in the Master of International Development are eligible for Austudy or Youth Allowance. Visit the Centrelink website for further information.

As a La Trobe graduate you may be eligible for our 10% Alumni Advantage when you apply for a full-fee postgraduate coursework program.

Career opportunities

Development NGOs (non-government organisations), project officer, journalism, implementation and evaluation of development programs within government organisations.

Related study options

Didn't find a suitable course? You could also try these study options:

Study with practitioners

You have the opportunity to learn from practitioners like Linda Kelly, Andrew Hewett, Chris Roche and members of the Humanitarian Advisory Group, who have many years experience in the field with NGOs both here and overseas.

Overseas study opportunities

There are many opportunities for La Trobe students to study overseas. Many of La Trobe's International Development students chose to study in countries such as Ecuador, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Peru and Thailand.  Some of these universities also offer student placements in development agencies, where they gain firsthand experience of development work. Students from overseas can come to La Trobe and do a short-term Study Abroad program. Some short courses are also available to international students.