Development studies often aim to prepare students to perform a deep investigation of the developing world. To this end, an academic program in this discipline might engage with any number of issues facing developing economies and societies.

A course is the study of a particular topic within a wider subject area and is the foundation of a qualification. A typical course includes lectures, assessments and tutorials.

Part-time learning allows one to obtain a degree or qualification even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at one's own pace, gradually accumulating credits that count towards a final qualification.