Insights

• Infinity Media
• 23 Min Read
• 206 Views

Everything You Need To Know About The University For Development Studies (Uds)

In the heart of Northern Ghana lies an institution that has redefined higher education for the region. Established in 1992 with a clear mandate to drive development in Ghana’s north and beyond, the University for Development Studies (UDS) stands as a testament to innovative pedagogy, community engagement, and a commitment to “Knowledge for Service.” If you’re curious about UDS—its origins, campuses, academic structure, research focus, student life, and future prospects—this comprehensive guide will walk you through every facet of this unique public university.

Introduction: A Vision for Development

The University for Development Studies was founded with a vision that transcended traditional academic models. Rather than confining learning within the walls of a central campus, UDS was conceived as a multi-campus institution designed to integrate theoretical learning with practical, community-based experiences. Its mandate is not only to produce academically sound graduates but also to equip them with the skills and ethical foundation necessary to tackle the real-world challenges of rural and underdeveloped areas in Ghana. UDS embodies a “pro-poor” philosophy that seeks to bridge the gap between academia and community needs, ensuring that education directly contributes to national development.

At its core, UDS is about addressing societal problems head-on. From its inception, the university has integrated experiential learning into its curriculum. Programs like the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP) allow students to spend extended periods in local communities, gaining firsthand experience in addressing issues such as poverty, resource management, and sustainable development. This commitment to blending academic rigor with fieldwork has set UDS apart from many other institutions in Ghana and across Africa.

A Glimpse into History: From Concept to Reality

The history of UDS is both inspiring and reflective of Ghana’s broader development journey. Established in 1992 by the Government of Ghana under PNDC Law 279, UDS was created to accelerate development in the northern regions of the country. The university is notably the fifth public university to be established in Ghana, marking a significant shift in educational policy aimed at redressing regional imbalances.

Founding Purpose and Philosophical Underpinnings

The primary goal behind UDS’s establishment was to make higher education accessible to those in the northern parts of Ghana, where socioeconomic challenges were (and in many cases still are) more acute. In doing so, the founders of UDS aimed to:

• Provide quality higher education: Ensuring that the people of northern Ghana had access to tertiary education that was both academically robust and contextually relevant.
• Conduct research for development: Emphasizing applied research that could directly inform and improve practices in agriculture, resource management, health, and rural development.
• Bridge the gap between theory and practice: By integrating community-based field work (via the TTFPP) into its curriculum, UDS ensures that students are not merely passive recipients of knowledge but active problem solvers who engage with real challenges.

This unique pedagogical philosophy has its roots in the belief that universities must do more than merely produce graduates—they must be catalysts for societal transformation. As a result, UDS has maintained a strong “knowledge for service” orientation, focusing on the needs of rural communities and the structural causes of poverty.

Key Milestones in UDS’s History

• 1992 – Establishment: The university was officially founded in 1992 with a legislative instrument (PNDC Law 279) that laid the groundwork for its development. From the very start, UDS was envisioned as a multi-campus institution that would serve the four northern regions of Ghana.
• 1993 – Commencement of Academic Work: UDS began its academic activities in September 1993 with the admission of its first cohort of students into the Faculty of Agriculture. Although the initial intake was modest, it marked the beginning of a new era in higher education for Northern Ghana.
• Integration of Field Work: Early on, UDS introduced the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP) into its curriculum. This innovative program, which requires students to spend approximately two months each year working in local communities, has become a hallmark of the university. It provides invaluable practical experience and strengthens the connection between academic learning and societal needs.
• Expansion of Academic Offerings: Over the years, UDS has expanded its academic portfolio. Today, the university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across a diverse range of fields—from agriculture and health sciences to social sciences and engineering.
• Introduction of New Programs: In recent years, UDS has further diversified its offerings by introducing new programs, such as the Bachelor of Law, to meet the evolving needs of the region and ensure that graduates are equipped to take on leadership roles in various sectors.

These milestones illustrate the university’s steady growth and its unwavering commitment to its foundational mission: to drive sustainable development through education, research, and community engagement.

Campuses: A Multi-Campus Model to Serve the Nation

One of the most distinctive features of UDS is its multi-campus system. Designed to maximize accessibility and responsiveness to local needs, UDS operates across several campuses, each serving different academic functions and regional populations.

Tamale Campus

The main administrative hub of UDS is located in Tamale, the capital of the Northern Region. The Tamale Campus houses critical units such as the Central Administration, School of Medicine (SoM), School of Allied Health Sciences (SAHS), School of Nursing and Midwifery (SoNM), School of Public Health (SPH), and the Faculty of Education (FoE), as well as the Desert Research Institute (DRI) (​

). This campus is designed not only for academic instruction but also for advanced research in health and education. Its facilities are state-of-the-art, enabling students to engage in clinical practice, health research, and innovative educational methodologies.

Tamale City Campus

Complementing the main campus, the Tamale City Campus is dedicated to graduate studies and continuing education. It is home to the Graduate School, the Institute of Interdisciplinary Research (IIR), the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE), and the Business Innovation and Incubation Centre (BIIC) (​

). This campus is crucial for accommodating the growing number of postgraduate students and providing a flexible learning environment that supports lifelong learning and professional development.

Nyankpala Campus

Located on the outskirts of Tamale, the Nyankpala Campus is a center for programs in agriculture, natural resources, and engineering. It hosts the Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Sciences (FoAFCS), Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment (FNRE), Faculty of Biosciences (FoB), and the School of Engineering (SoE). In addition, this campus is home to two specialized centers: the West African Centre for Water, Irrigation and Sustainable Agriculture (WACWISA) and the West African Centre for Sustainable Rural Transformation (WAC-SRT) (​

). These centers are pivotal in driving research and innovation that directly address the challenges faced by rural communities in the region.

Tamale North Campus

The Tamale North Campus is specifically dedicated to programs in applied economics and management sciences. Known as the site for the School of Applied Economics and Management Sciences (SAEMS), this campus focuses on equipping students with skills in economic planning, resource management, and public administration. It plays a critical role in training future leaders who can contribute to sustainable economic development in the region.

Eastern Campus, Yendi

Extending its reach beyond Tamale, UDS also operates an Eastern Campus in Yendi. This campus is home to the Faculty of Communication and Cultural Studies (FCCS) and the Faculty of Sustainable Development Studies (FoSDS). In addition, it houses the Centre for Culture, Heritage and African Studies (CCHAS) and the Centre for Peace and Security Studies (CePSS) (​

). The Yendi Campus underscores UDS’s commitment to addressing cultural and societal dimensions of development, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing modern Ghana.

Academic Structure: Schools, Faculties, and Programs

UDS boasts a broad and diverse academic structure that is designed to meet the multifaceted needs of development in Ghana. The institution is organized into several schools and faculties, each specializing in different fields of study, yet all aligned with the university’s overarching mission.

Schools and Faculties

UDS has a range of schools and faculties that cover disciplines from the natural sciences to social studies, engineering, health sciences, and more. Here are some of the key academic divisions:

Faculty of Planning and Land Management

This faculty is dedicated to preparing students for careers in urban planning, community development, and real estate management. Its departments include:

• Department of Community Development
• Department of Planning and Management
• Department of Real Estate and Land Management

Through these programs, students gain skills in planning, policy formulation, and the sustainable management of land and resources—essential competencies for regions experiencing rapid urbanization and development.

Faculty of Agriculture

The Faculty of Agriculture is one of the oldest and most vital components of UDS. It focuses on addressing food security and sustainable agricultural practices through programs in:

• Agricultural Mechanization and Irrigation Technology
• Agricultural Extension and Farm Management
• Agronomy
• Animal Science
• Biotechnology
• Consumer Sciences & Agricultural Education
• Horticulture

Graduates from this faculty are well-prepared to support modern agriculture, enhance food production, and implement innovative farming practices in rural communities (​

).

Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment

This faculty is at the forefront of environmental conservation and sustainable resource management. Its academic offerings include:

• Forestry and Forest Resources Management
• Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management
• Biodiversity Conservation and Management
• Environment and Sustainability
• Ecotourism and Resort Management

Students learn to address challenges related to climate change, conservation, and the sustainable use of natural resources—issues that are particularly pressing in regions facing rapid environmental degradation.

School of Allied Health Sciences

A key component of UDS’s commitment to improving health outcomes, the School of Allied Health Sciences offers programs that blend scientific knowledge with practical application. Programmes include:

• 4-Year BSc (Community Nutrition)
• 6-Year Doctor of Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS.D) in a sandwich post-graduate format
• 4-Year Doctor of Medical Imagery Technology
• MSc./MPhil in Community Health and Development (Modular)
• MSc./MPhil in Public Health Nutrition (Modular)

These programs are designed to produce health professionals who are not only clinically proficient but also deeply aware of the public health challenges facing rural Ghana.

School of Nursing and Midwifery

This school provides comprehensive nursing and midwifery education with an emphasis on both general and specialized care. It comprises several departments:

• Department of Advanced Nursing Practice
• Department of General Nursing
• Department of Mental Health Nursing
• Department of Midwifery and Women's Health
• Department of Paediatric Nursing
• Department of Preventive Health Nursing

The school offers various pathways for students, including:

• 4-Year BSc (Nursing)
• 2-Year Top-up BSc (Nursing)
• 4-Year BSc (Midwifery)
• 2-Year Top-up BSc (Midwifery)
• 3-Year Matured Regular BSc (Nursing)
• 3-Year Matured BSc (Midwifery)
• 4-Year Access BSc (Midwifery)
• 3-Year Matured Sandwich BSc (Nursing)
• 3-Year BSc (Nurse Practitioner)

By offering diverse entry points and flexible study modes, the School of Nursing and Midwifery ensures that a wide range of students can access high-quality training in health care.

Faculty of Applied Sciences

Focusing on the natural and physical sciences, this faculty comprises departments such as:

• Department of Applied Biology
• Department of Applied Chemistry & Biochemistry
• Department of Applied Physics

These programs provide the scientific foundation necessary for innovation and research in fields that underpin many aspects of modern development.

Faculty of Mathematical Sciences

This faculty develops expertise in mathematics, statistics, and computer science. It includes:

• Department of Mathematics
• Department of Computer Science
• Department of Statistics

Graduates in these fields are well-equipped to analyze data, develop computational models, and support research across disciplines—from economics and finance to environmental management.

Faculty of Integrated Development

Reflecting UDS’s interdisciplinary ethos, the Faculty of Integrated Development brings together a mix of social sciences and humanities to address development issues holistically. It includes departments such as:

• Economics & Entrepreneurship Development
• Environmental & Resource Studies
• Social, Political & Historical Studies
• Planning, Land Economy and Rural Development
• Communication Studies
• Business Studies

This integrated approach is crucial for developing solutions that are sensitive to cultural, social, and economic contexts.

School of Medicine and Health Sciences

The School of Medicine and Health Sciences, which began admitting its first students in 1996, trains future doctors and health professionals. It comprises departments such as:

• Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine
• Community Nutrition
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Community Health and Family Medicine
• Physiology & Surgery

This school plays an essential role in addressing the pressing health care needs of northern Ghana by producing well-rounded medical professionals.

Faculty of Education

This faculty focuses on producing educators who can lead and innovate in the field of teaching. It includes departments in:

• Development Education Studies
• Basic Education Studies
• Educational Foundation Studies
• Social and Business Studies

The Faculty of Education is committed to fostering pedagogical innovation and preparing teachers who are responsive to the unique challenges of educating in rural and developing contexts.

Faculty of Horticulture

Although still to be established, the Faculty of Horticulture is planned as an extension of UDS’s agricultural mandate, aimed at promoting sustainable practices in horticulture and food production.

Research and Innovation: Bridging Theory and Practice

A central pillar of UDS’s philosophy is its commitment to research that not only advances academic knowledge but also directly benefits society. UDS places a strong emphasis on applied research and innovation, with several specialized research centers and initiatives that focus on the pressing issues of rural and regional development.

The Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP)

One of UDS’s most innovative educational practices is the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme. Introduced in 1993, this program requires students to spend an entire trimester (approximately two months) working in local communities. In these placements, students engage directly with development challenges—be it in agriculture, health, education, or infrastructure—and apply classroom knowledge to real-life problems. This immersive experience is designed to cultivate problem-solving skills, enhance cultural sensitivity, and foster a deep commitment to community service. By integrating fieldwork into the academic curriculum, UDS ensures that graduates are not only theoretically informed but also practically experienced in addressing development issues (​

).

Specialized Research Centers

UDS is home to several research centers and institutes that focus on key areas of development. These include:

• West African Centre for Water, Irrigation and Sustainable Agriculture (WACWISA): Focused on developing innovative and sustainable solutions for water management and irrigation—a critical issue for the agrarian economies of Northern Ghana.
• West African Centre for Sustainable Rural Transformation (WAC-SRT): Dedicated to researching and promoting strategies that can transform rural economies through sustainable practices.
• Desert Research Institute (DRI): Located on the Tamale Campus, the DRI conducts research on arid land agriculture, resource management, and environmental sustainability.

The outputs of these research centers feed directly into academic programs, policy formulation, and community-based projects, ensuring that UDS’s work has a tangible impact on regional development.

Collaborative Research and Funding

Research at UDS is not conducted in isolation. The university actively collaborates with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners to secure funding and expertise. These collaborations enable the university to undertake large-scale research projects that address systemic challenges in health, agriculture, education, and the environment. Such partnerships not only enhance the quality of research but also ensure that findings are translated into policies and practices that benefit local communities.

Student Life and Campus Culture: More Than Just Classes

At UDS, student life is an integral part of the educational experience. The university’s multi-campus model and community-oriented approach create a vibrant and supportive environment that extends well beyond the classroom.

A Dynamic and Diverse Community

UDS attracts students from across Ghana and neighboring countries. This diverse student body enriches campus life, fostering cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. Students are encouraged to participate in clubs, societies, and community outreach initiatives that complement their academic pursuits. Whether it’s joining the debate club, engaging in cultural performances, or taking part in sports events, there is no shortage of opportunities to build networks, develop leadership skills, and create lasting memories.

Campus Facilities and Student Support Services

Each campus at UDS is equipped with modern facilities designed to support both academic and extracurricular activities. Highlights include:

• Library Resources: Extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources ensure that students have access to the information they need for research and study.
• eLearning Platforms: The university’s online portals facilitate course registration, access to learning materials, and communication with faculty.
• Health and Wellness Services: On-campus clinics and counseling centers provide support for students’ physical and mental health, ensuring a holistic educational experience.
• Recreational Facilities: Sports fields, auditoriums, and communal spaces encourage social interaction and help maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Experiential Learning and Community Engagement

Beyond formal classes, UDS emphasizes experiential learning through its field practical programs and community-based projects. Students have the chance to work directly with local organizations, participate in community development initiatives, and even influence policy through research projects. These experiences not only build practical skills but also instill a sense of responsibility and social commitment—qualities that are highly valued in today’s rapidly evolving world.

Student Organizations and Leadership Opportunities

UDS supports a myriad of student-led organizations that span academic, cultural, and recreational interests. These groups offer platforms for students to lead initiatives, organize events, and contribute to campus life. Leadership roles in these organizations provide hands-on management experience and foster skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Whether you are passionate about environmental sustainability, public health, or cultural studies, there is a student organization at UDS that can help you channel your interests into action.

Admissions, Scholarships, and Financial Support

For prospective students, UDS offers a clear admissions process and multiple avenues of financial support to ensure that higher education remains accessible, regardless of economic background.

The Admissions Process

UDS’s admissions process is designed to be inclusive and merit-based. Prospective students are evaluated based on academic records, entrance examinations, and relevant experience. The process is transparent, and the university provides detailed guidelines on how to apply—whether you are a Ghanaian student or an international applicant. In recent years, UDS has also introduced new programs such as the Bachelor of Law, reflecting its commitment to evolving with the needs of the community (​

).

Scholarships and Bursaries

Recognizing that financial constraints can be a significant barrier to education, UDS offers various scholarships and bursaries. These financial aids are aimed at supporting students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and are often tied to academic performance and community involvement. The university also collaborates with governmental and non-governmental organizations to secure additional funding for student support, ensuring that talented individuals have the opportunity to pursue higher education without undue financial burden.

Flexible Payment Plans and Work-Study Options

To further ease the financial burden, UDS offers flexible payment plans that allow students to pay tuition fees in installments. Additionally, work-study programs and part-time job opportunities on campus help students gain work experience while supporting their studies. These initiatives are part of UDS’s broader commitment to making education both accessible and affordable.

Community Engagement and Social Impact

The university’s mission is deeply intertwined with community development. UDS is not just an academic institution; it is a dynamic force for social change.

The Role of the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP)

As mentioned earlier, the TTFPP is a cornerstone of the UDS educational model. By dedicating an entire trimester each year to practical work in local communities, the university ensures that its students gain firsthand insight into the challenges facing rural Ghana. This immersive experience allows students to work on projects ranging from sustainable agriculture and water resource management to health promotion and education reform. The TTFPP not only enhances students’ practical skills but also fosters strong bonds between the university and the communities it serves (​

).

Outreach and Extension Services

UDS is actively involved in outreach programs that extend its expertise beyond the campus. The Directorate of Community Relations and Outreach Programmes (DCROP) coordinates a range of initiatives designed to transfer knowledge and skills to local populations. These programs include teacher training workshops, health clinics, agricultural extension services, and environmental conservation projects. By engaging directly with communities, UDS contributes to sustainable development and builds a legacy of service and innovation.

Partnerships with Government and Non-Governmental Organizations

Collaboration is at the heart of UDS’s community engagement strategy. The university partners with governmental agencies, international organizations, and local NGOs to address issues such as poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, and public health. These partnerships facilitate research projects, provide additional funding for community initiatives, and help create platforms for dialogue between policymakers and practitioners. The insights gained from these collaborations are often integrated into classroom teaching, ensuring that students are well-versed in the complexities of development challenges.

Future Prospects: Embracing Innovation and Expanding Horizons

As UDS continues to grow, it remains focused on staying at the forefront of innovation in higher education. The university’s strategic vision for the future is built on three main pillars: academic excellence, research innovation, and social transformation.

Expanding Academic Programs and Research Initiatives

UDS is committed to diversifying its academic portfolio to meet the evolving needs of its students and the broader society. Recent initiatives include the introduction of new programs in law and expanded offerings in business, health sciences, and technology. These developments are designed to ensure that graduates are not only well-prepared for the local job market but also competitive on an international scale.

In research, UDS is investing in advanced facilities and forging new partnerships with research institutions both in Ghana and abroad. These efforts aim to increase the university’s research output, enhance its contribution to national development, and secure funding for large-scale projects that address critical issues such as climate change, food security, and public health.

Digital Transformation and E-Learning

Like many institutions around the world, UDS is embracing digital transformation to expand its reach and improve accessibility. The university’s robust eLearning platforms allow students to access courses, resources, and support services online. This digital shift is especially important for reaching students in remote areas and for providing flexible learning options that accommodate diverse schedules and learning styles.

Strengthening International Collaborations

UDS recognizes that the challenges of development are global in scope and require international cooperation. As such, the university is strengthening its ties with institutions around the world through exchange programs, joint research projects, and collaborative initiatives. These international partnerships not only enhance the academic experience for students and faculty but also help position UDS as a leading institution in the global development arena.

Building a Sustainable Future

Sustainability is a key theme in UDS’s strategic vision. The university is committed to promoting sustainable practices across all aspects of its operations—from energy-efficient campus design to sustainable agriculture and water management research. By integrating sustainability into its curriculum and research activities, UDS is preparing a new generation of leaders who are equipped to tackle the environmental challenges of the 21st century.

Challenges and Opportunities: Navigating the Road Ahead

No institution is without its challenges, and UDS faces its own set of obstacles as it strives to fulfill its ambitious mandate.

Financial Constraints and Resource Allocation

One of the primary challenges for UDS is securing sufficient funding to support its expansive programs and infrastructure. As a public university serving a predominantly rural population, UDS must balance the need for quality education with financial limitations. However, by leveraging partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations and exploring innovative funding models, UDS is working to overcome these financial constraints.

Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide

UDS was established to serve the northern regions of Ghana, many of which are characterized by underdevelopment and limited access to educational resources. While this focus is central to the university’s mission, it also presents logistical challenges. Ensuring that all campuses—especially those in more remote areas—have access to modern facilities and technology is an ongoing priority. UDS is actively investing in digital infrastructure and community outreach programs to bridge this urban-rural divide.

Adapting to a Rapidly Changing Global Landscape

In today’s fast-paced global economy, the skills and knowledge required for success are constantly evolving. UDS must continuously update its curriculum, research agendas, and teaching methodologies to remain relevant. This challenge, however, is also an opportunity. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, UDS is well-positioned to adapt to changing global trends and prepare its students for future success.

Enhancing Research Capacity

While UDS has made significant strides in research and innovation, there is still room to expand its research capacity. Increasing research output and securing external funding are critical for enhancing the university’s impact on national development. Efforts to build state-of-the-art research facilities, train faculty in advanced research methodologies, and foster interdisciplinary collaborations are central to UDS’s strategy for overcoming this challenge.

Alumni Impact: Shaping the Future Through Service

One of the most compelling measures of a university’s success is the impact of its alumni. UDS graduates are known for their commitment to community development and for holding leadership roles in various sectors, from public administration and health care to business and environmental management.

Success Stories and Contributions

Many UDS alumni have gone on to make significant contributions in their respective fields. Whether through innovative projects in agriculture, transformative work in health care, or groundbreaking research in environmental sciences, UDS graduates exemplify the university’s commitment to “Knowledge for Service.” Their work not only contributes to national development but also serves as an inspiration for current students.

Building a Strong Alumni Network

The university is actively building a robust alumni network that facilitates mentorship, career development, and ongoing engagement with the community. Alumni associations and regular networking events help create a strong support system that benefits both new graduates and established professionals. This network is an invaluable resource for fostering collaboration and driving social change long after students leave campus.

Conclusion: A Beacon for Development and Innovation

The University for Development Studies is much more than a higher education institution—it is a vibrant community of learners, innovators, and change-makers dedicated to addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing Ghana and the wider African continent. From its pioneering field-based learning programs to its expansive multi-campus model, UDS is uniquely positioned to transform lives through education, research, and community engagement.

With a clear mission to serve the underdeveloped regions of Ghana and a pedagogical philosophy centered on practical, hands-on learning, UDS continues to break new ground in higher education. Its innovative academic programs, cutting-edge research initiatives, and unwavering commitment to sustainable development ensure that every graduate is not only prepared for a successful career but is also empowered to contribute to societal transformation.

As UDS looks to the future, it remains focused on expanding its academic offerings, enhancing its research capabilities, and deepening its engagement with local and international communities. The challenges it faces—from financial constraints to the need for continuous innovation—are met with determination, strategic planning, and a collaborative spirit that has defined the institution since its inception.

For prospective students, educators, policymakers, and community leaders alike, the University for Development Studies represents a beacon of hope and progress—a place where knowledge is not only acquired but also applied for the greater good. It is an institution that believes in the transformative power of education and the critical role it plays in building a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous society.

In a world where development challenges are increasingly complex and global in scope, UDS stands out as an example of how targeted, community-focused education can drive meaningful change. Whether you are considering applying as a student, looking to collaborate on research projects, or simply seeking inspiration from an institution committed to social justice, the University for Development Studies offers a model for how education can truly serve as a catalyst for development.

Join UDS on its journey to harness knowledge for service and help shape a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Through its commitment to innovation, community engagement, and academic excellence, UDS is not only educating future leaders—it is empowering them to build a better world.