Global technology and development uses international development and scientific disciplines to better understand and more capably address global issues. Examples include addressing climate change, delivering accessible health care and education and providing clean drinking water.
There are two key components of global and technology development:
- Recognizing the ability of technology to affect societies.
- Understanding how changes in societies lead to technological innovation.
While technology is a foundational focus, this discipline takes many other concepts into account. Depending on the specific context of a project, considerations such as history, religion and society can all come into play. Effective development needs more than just the right technology and data. Implementation often requires a strong grasp of a community’s culture.
What is technology’s role in global development?
Technology, which is taken to mean every sort of tool or system used by society to advance its goals, affects social, political and economic processes and outcomes.
In this program, you’ll learn how to analyze these processes and outcomes, and critique the variable impacts of technology and political and social development and change.
What abilities can I develop in this applied international development concentration?
Key skills you can hone related to development include:
- Analysis.
- Evaluation.
- Management.
- Planning.
- Research.
The broad range of potential coursework in this program means you can cultivate abilities that are highly relevant to your field of interest.
Can I select a specialization for my degree?
You can choose a specialization from other colleges within ASU and select elective courses offered through them, including but not limited to:
- College of Health Solutions.
- Thunderbird School of Global Management.
- W. P. Carey School of Business.
If you want to assist in the development of societies and countries across the globe, this global technology and development degree can prepare you to do so regardless of the specific field in which you work.

A Master of Science in global technology and development with a concentration in applied international development supports your goal of addressing major international concerns, from education and health to sustainability. You’ll have many opportunities to select courses that align with your specific field of interest and support your goal of positive global change.
Flexibility is a key attribute in this global technology and development program. You’ll choose a specialization and select supporting courses using an interdisciplinary approach, tailoring your degree to your needs. Featured courses include:
The School for the Future of Innovation in Society faculty works around the world on initiatives such as energy innovation, poverty alleviation, community development, food security, water access and education. They work on projects in the regions of Africa, the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia, China, Latin America and North America, with funding from the National Science Foundation, U.S. Agency for International Development, the World Bank and other entities. Our faculty impart their real-world experience through innovative course design and student mentorship.
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.
best online bachelor’s programs.
best global universities.
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.
Applicants to the Master of Science in global technology and development with a concentration in applied international development must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Global Futures.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university recognized by ASU.
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Personal statement.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.