The Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies at the University of Venda provides students with an interdisciplinary understanding of development theory, poverty, inequality, and social transformation in African and global contexts. Students examine the political, economic, and social dimensions of development, engaging with South Africa's own development challenges including rural underdevelopment, unemployment, land reform, and service delivery. Situated in Limpopo — one of South Africa's most rural provinces — UNIVEN is ideally positioned to offer students direct engagement with real-world development issues.
English Home Language or English First Additional Language: 50%
History or Economics: 50%
APS: 30
Development Officer – Plans and implements socioeconomic development projects for government departments, development finance institutions, and international NGOs operating in South Africa.
Policy Analyst – Researches and evaluates social development policies for think tanks, government departments, and organisations such as SASSA and the DPME.
Community Liaison Officer – Facilitates engagement between communities and development organisations, government, and private sector stakeholders.
NGO Programme Manager – Manages development programmes focused on poverty alleviation, rural development, and community empowerment for civil society organisations.
Social Researcher – Conducts fieldwork and qualitative research on development issues for universities, research councils, and international development organisations working in South Africa.
