Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies (BA DS) provides students with a broad and interdisciplinary understanding of development dynamics, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address societal challenges. The program explores key areas such as governance, economics, sustainability, social justice, and policy analysis, preparing graduates to become transformative leaders in development planning and implementation.

Students engage with both theoretical perspectives and practical applications through case studies, field research, and experiential learning opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and innovative problem-solving approaches to ensure graduates can navigate complex global and local development landscapes. By integrating sustainability principles with economic and social development strategies, the program aligns with national and international frameworks, including Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in government agencies, NGOs, international organizations, and private sector initiatives focused on economic development, social equity, and environmental sustainability. Through this degree, students gain the expertise needed to drive impactful policies and projects, fostering inclusive growth and resilient communities. The BA DS program empowers learners to become agents of positive change, contributing to sustainable and equitable development at local, national, and global levels.

At the end of this programme, graduates will be able to:

1. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving – Demonstrate the ability to analyze development challenges using interdisciplinary approaches and propose innovative, evidence-based solutions.

1. Ethical and Sustainable Decision-Making – Apply ethical principles and sustainability frameworks to development policies and initiatives, ensuring responsible and inclusive growth.
2. Policy and Governance Expertise – Assess governance structures, policy frameworks, and institutional mechanisms to contribute effectively to development planning and advocacy.
3. Research and Field-Based Application – Conduct independent research and field studies to generate practical insights, supporting impactful development interventions.
4. Communication and Stakeholder Engagement – Exhibit proficiency in communicating development issues to diverse audiences, fostering collaboration among government entities, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders.

Applicants for the program shall be eligible for admission in the following ways:

1. Direct Entry Scheme

Applicants shall satisfy the general minimum entry requirements stipulated by National Council for Higher Education (NCHE). Candidates seeking admission through this avenue must have obtained: –

• The Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) with at least six credits of which two credits must be in English and Mathematics.
• The Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) with at least two Principal Passes obtained at the same sitting, which passes must include one of the subjects such as Mathematics and Physics, or its equivalence from UNEB or a legitimate national authority.
• Foreign students without UACE or its equivalent qualifications, who have successfully completed secondary school education and are admissible to university degree or diploma programmes in their respective home countries. Such students shall have passed at least five subjects with a minimum overall grade of C (Plain). In addition, foreign students whose studies were not conducted in English shall show proof of proficiency in the English Language.

1. Diploma Entry Scheme

Candidates seeking admission through the Diploma holder’s Scheme must:

• Have passed Mathematics and English with at least a credit in the Uganda Certificate of Education or its equivalent
• Have done a combination involving such as Mathematics and Physics, or their equivalent at UACE and passed at least one of the subjects at Principle level
• Have obtained a diploma or its equivalent qualification (at credit/distinction level) in the relevant field from a recognized higher institution of learning.

1. Mature Age Entry

The applicant must have passed Mature Age Entry Examinations (with at least 50%) of any institution dully authorized by the NCHE to issue such examination. For purposes of admission the Mature Age Entrance Certificate shall be valid for no more than two years.

Direct Entry (UACE results)

Three Years

Diploma Holder in any course

Two Years

Tuition Structure

Online $250 (Ugx 925,000) per Term

On campus $375 (Ugx 1,400,000) per Semester