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2025, no. 11
THEORY & PRACTICE OF EDUCATION

Developing a New Model for a Master’s Program in Demography Using a Competency-Based Approach

Tamara K. RostovskayaORCID, Dmitriy V. NakisbaevORCID, Ekaterina N. VasilievaORCID, Elena V. SukhushinaORCID

DOI 10.20339/am.11-25.035pp. 35–47UDC 378+37.09:31680 RUB

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Abstract

Introduction. The training of qualified demographers capable of effectively managing socio-demographic processes at the regional level is of paramount importance. Aim of the study — The aim of this study is to systematize the methodological approaches used to develop competencies in demography master’s programs. Methodology: This study is grounded in the competency-based approach, which forms the basis of modern education. The research employed a qualitative analysis of documents pertaining to master’s programs in demography. The sample was constructed based on an expert survey of members of the Demography Expert Group of the Demography Academic-Methodological Council (operating under the Federal Educational-Methodological Association for the Broad Field of Specialties 39.00.00 “Sociology and Social Work”), combined with a systematization of data on demography courses obtained via the Europass search engine. Results: Based on the analysis, the study justified the structure and content of the competencies and outlined a model Master’s curriculum, detailing its distribution of modules, practical placements, and assessments. Scientific novelty: Approaches to developing competencies in demography were systematized based on an analysis of the content of master’s programs offered in Russia and abroad, which facilitated the design of an educational program in a modular format for training demographer-managers, with an emphasis on remote interaction and project-based activities. Practical significance: The proposed competencies and program can serve as a template for other universities and regional centers for human resource development in the field of demography.

Keywords

  • demographic education
  • Master’s program
  • modular approach
  • regional demography
  • project-based learning
  • distance education

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