The Joint International Master of Science in Rural Development - IMRD Consortium Scholarships

IMRD Structure

IMRD consists of 5 modules and an optional internship. Depending on the track you follow, mobility requirements may differ.

General entrance module (semester 1)

A study period with theoretical formation in basic agricultural economics, development theories and methodologies. Its courses represent a general training into basic competence domains.

Advanced module I (semester 2)

Specialisation in one of the competence domains comprising a range of obligatory and optional courses, which can be complemented with elective courses for broadening specific knowledge or to improve language/cultural knowledge and skills.

Case Study

A practical experience in a commonly organised study. Students with different backgrounds are confronted with the rural development reality through a more active learning method for sharing visions and discussing opinions. Basic knowledge and assessment methods are applied. Students need to work in groups and are confronted with rural work realities, have field visits and work meetings with local stakeholders.

It is organised in July or August, between the second and third semester. Annually the Management Board selects between two and four different locations for the Case Studies. At least one European, and one non-European Case Study is available each year.

Advanced module II (semester 3)

Specialisation in one of the competence domains comprising a range of obligatory and optional courses, which can be complemented with elective courses for broadening specific knowledge or to improve language/cultural knowledge and skills. During this module the skills learned will be applied to the preparation of the master dissertation.

Master Dissertation (semester 4)

An original dissertation (thesis) is based on own scientific and practical research with guidance of a supervisor and is written in one of the disciplines of rural development. Students must demonstrate their ability to conduct scientific research at an academic level.

Completing a Master Dissertation requires the fulfillment of three activities: research, writing the dissertation, and giving an oral and public defense of the dissertation.

Internship

The internship gives students the opportunity to carry out practical specialized work in a domain of their interest. The subject of the internship placement has to have a link with rural development, agricultural economics or rural sociology. This can be both in an academic or a professional environment. The internship allows students to apply skills learned during the programme in a real world context to better prepare them for the job market.

IMRD mobility tracks

Students can obtain the IMRD degree through one of mobility tracks:

IMRD

• Erasmus Mundus track
• VLIR-UOS track

Following one of the IMRD tracks leads to the awarding of a joint degree: International Master of Science in Rural Development.

IMRD+

• ATLANTIS track: A double degree programme with the University of Arkansas
• EKAFREE track: A double degree programme with Korea University and Seoul National University
• EERUDEV track: A double degree programme with Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral

Following one of the IMRD+ tracks leads to the awarding of a double degree. The joint degree: International Master of Science in Rural Development. And a second degree in Agricultural Economics (University of Arkansas or Seoul National University), Economics (Korea University) or Rural Development (ESPOL).

IMRD student mobility

All IMRD students are required to spend at least one semester in a minimum of two EU partner universities. Depending on the track followed certain additional mobility requirements may be necessary. Consult the specifications per track below. For a more detailed overview please consult the student handbook in the student portal.