MSc in International Development

Our MSc in International Development allows you to explore the challenges facing developing and developed countries in the fight against global poverty, as well as to understand the promise and problems of proposed approaches to poverty reduction.

You will explore theories of development in historical context from 1945 up to the present day in a single compulsory module. The theories are then applied to contemporary development approaches and issues. Throughout, the emphasis is on you developing a critical understanding of the evolution of development theories over the last half century and its implications for present day thinking about development.

You can then select the remaining five modules to suit your own needs and interests. You could, for example, take modules in rural and urban poverty reduction, on conflict and development or gender and development. You could also take modules on project management, disaster management or governance. Many other modules are also available to choose from.

The programme is taught by a team of multi-disciplinary specialists who work closely with you to address individual interests and concerns. Every student is allocated an academic tutor to support you in your academic progress throughout the year. The department has a long history of teaching students from across the world, and recent students have come from 99a variety of countries with differing professional and academic backgrounds.

The  International Development Department  is well-regarded internationally by sponsors, donor agencies, governments and NGOs. Study with us to benefit from:

• Expertise in key issues and skills valued by employers
• A vibrant, welcoming community
• Individual overseas fieldwork  or study visit included in fees (on-campus programmes)
• Flexible programmes and a  wide choice of modules  (part-time students also welcome)
• A diverse and international student body
• Strong support in study and English language skills

Why study this course?

The International Development programme is useful if you have not yet decided what specialist path to follow within the field. It will also give you the maximum possible flexibility in tailoring the programme to your own particular interests, by allowing you to choose five of the six courses that form part of the taught part of the programme.

The programme does not assume any prior knowledge of international development and we welcome applications from candidates who meet the admissions criteria.

The College of Social Sciences brings together over 450 academics (including 90 professors) and over 360 professional staff across a range of disciplines and interdisciplinary fields. Around 25% of our staff are international and combined with over 42,500 global alumni representing over 185 countries, our work impacts all areas of society grounded in the key disciplines of business, economics, education, government and society, and social policy.

Why study at the University of Birmingham?

• We are a global Top 100 University and are ranked top 20 in multiple UK league tables
• We have been named the most targeted university by the UK’s top 100 graduate employers (The Graduate Market in 2021
• 87% of our research has a global impact (REF 2014)
• Numerous UoB alumni and staff have been involved with work recognised with Nobel prizes
• There is a wealth of employability support services available to students. The College and our Careers Network can provide you with practical advice and skills for career development. We also have excellent industrial links with global companies, such as Rolls Royce and Jaguar Land Rover, which allow opportunities for our students to gain insight and experience of the industry.
• You could receive a Commonwealth Scholarship worth £3,000 or a Global Masters Scholarship worth £10,000 if you start your studies in September 2021. Information and eligibility criteria for both awards is available on our website.