IE University’s Executive Master in International Development opens doors to a vast range of careers in the world of sustainability and beyond.

3 min read

Are you building a career where you can make a real difference and contribute to a better world? The field of sustainability and development is always changing as our societies’ needs evolve. From tackling climate change to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the work of international development professionals is never ending.

Understanding the challenges our society faces and how we can collaborate to navigate them is crucial in a multilateral world. The sector needs experienced, skilled professionals with the tools to build consensus and find solutions to global issues. However, navigating this field can be tricky without the right tools and connections to guide your career path.

Equip yourself to address global challenges

The Executive Master in International Development, developed in partnership with the United Nations System Staff College, is tailored for professionals looking to advance their careers across various sectors. This unique 10-month program combines online learning with in-person sessions, allowing for live interaction, networking and skill development. With a part-time format, students can balance their studies with work commitments. The program provides practical insights applicable to multilateral organizations, governments, businesses and nonprofits, helping students understand international development challenges on a deep level.

Aligned with the UN 2.0 Quintet of Change, this executive program prepares you to tackle the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It’s designed for leaders committed to promoting social, economic and environmental prosperity worldwide, focusing on the SDGs that guide the work of many organizations in the field.

Unlock career opportunities with the Executive Master in International Development

Graduates of the Executive Master in International Development have a wide range of career options in different industries and organizations.

Mapping career paths in international development

These include international organizations, social impact companies, non-profits, government agencies and the private sector.

To further explore the wealth of career paths available, IE Talent & Careers recently hosted a webinar with Miguel Figuerola, a human resources leader with 30 years of experience in international organizations such as the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

Miguel highlighted career opportunities in inter-governmental organizations (IGOs) like the UN, emphasizing their role in fostering global cooperation. He described the world of IGOs as fascinating, complex and enriching. Working in one of these institutions provides the chance to promote collaboration between countries to find solutions that benefit the world as a whole.

Javier García Colino, senior assistant director of IE Talent & Careers, shared his insights into further career paths in the field. Within the public sector, there are many governmental and diplomatic services focused on international development. NGOs offer impactful roles in non-profit organizations that work independently of governments to champion human rights. Think tanks and academic institutions carry out research and advise governments and institutions.

Mapping career paths in international development

In the private sector, career opportunities include impact businesses, which are for-profit organizations that have aligned their business profitability goal with a positive impact on society.

Additionally, most businesses today have sustainability or ESG departments, which guide the company to improve its sustainability and social impact. Javier explained that as sustainability becomes more and more important to companies, new career avenues are opening up across industries.

Elevate your career with IE Talent & Careers

IE Talent & Careers assists students on their career journey from day one with guidance on job searching, interviews, networking and industry trends. The team also organizes networking and recruitment events, as well as giving one-to-one advice to answer all your career questions. IE University supports you throughout every step of your journey—including after graduation.

The Executive Master in International Development opens doors for career transitions into more impactful roles as well as vertical career progression within your current organization. With over 1800 recruiting partners from a wide variety of sectors and over 3,500 job opportunities published annually on the IE Career Portal, IE University connects you to the career prospects you’re looking for.

Enrolling in the Executive Master in International Development at IE University offers more than just academic learning. It’s an opportunity to join a diverse community and gain the tools needed to shape your professional future.