On this MA, you’ll benefit from a multidisciplinary approach to international development, drawing from areas such as politics, economics, anthropology, philosophy, sociology, geography, and environmental science. 

You’ll discover the importance of historical context when trying to make sense of current development challenges. You’ll also discover how to fully get to grips with international development issues by viewing them as a complex interrelation between society, economics, politics and the environment. 

You’ll be able to tailor your studies to your interests and ambitions, choosing from a large range of modules within and beyond the School of International Development. You’ll also choose whether to write a dissertation or do a summer placement – so there are plenty of opportunities to shine. 

Not only will you gain comprehensive knowledge of your subject, you’ll also build the necessary skills for a successful and effective, career in the field, and/or PhD study. 

PLACEMENT YEAR AND STUDY ABROAD

You will have the option of doing a work placement instead of writing a standard MA dissertation during the summer, of the duration of around 8 weeks (exact duration may vary). In this case you'll carry out a more practical activity and write a reflective report on this experience (considerably shorter than the average dissertation). You'll be supported by us in finding a placement, which can take place in a range of organisations (from large international organisations to research centres, government agencies or NGOs, to name a few). 

AFTER THE COURSE

You will graduate with a range of transferable skills, ready to pursue a variety of exciting careers both in and beyond international development. 

A career in international development can take you in all kinds of directions such as international organisations, governmental and non-governmental organisations, local governments and the private sector. 

You’ll also be well qualified to enter a PhD programme with a view to continuing to an academic career both in the UK and overseas. 

CAREER DESTINATIONS

Previous graduates have gone on to work for the British High Commission in Ghana, UNITAR in Japan, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, and PhD studies in related fields.