Levels of development differ between and within countries. On this degree you’ll study the causes of that inequality and explore possible solutions. You’ll also discover how the development process is shaped by key development actors, including governments, international development agencies, NGOs, and social movements. 

ABOUT

This innovative degree programme combines the study of politics with interdisciplinary approaches to international development. 

You’ll study a range of topics including the politics of poverty, inequality, conflict and democracy and how governments, international development agencies, NGOs and social movements influence political, economic and social change. You also get to choose from a range of options with the School of International Development, and in other departments. In your dissertation you’ll study a topic of your own choice in depth, under the supervision of a faculty member. 

You’ll also have the chance to develop a range of skills including research skills, data analysis, designing policy interventions and civil society campaigns, delivering presentations, and team work. 

You’ll be taught by academic staff whose research is internationally renowned. We’re actively involved in research across the globe, working with many national and international development agencies. 

Our research keeps our lecturers in touch with development issues at grassroots level, ensuring you benefit from the very latest thinking. 

Our flexible approach to learning enables you to explore your interests and strengths, graduating with a world-class degree in international development. 

PLACEMENT YEAR AND STUDY ABROAD

In your third year, you will spend 9-12 months in a full-time development placement, before returning to your studies in the final year. This placement will allow you to gain invaluable working experience and employability skills in a relevant area of your choice. ​ 

​You are expected to source your placement yourself, but support is available from the School staff and the Careers Service. Please note we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers. If you have not successfully secured a work placement by the end of your second year you will be transferred onto one of the three-year programmes. 

AFTER THE COURSE

You’ll graduate with the specialist and practical skills you need for a successful career in the UK or overseas. 

Many of our graduates work in development, including in roles in the United Nations World Food Programme, UK governments, foreign governments, non-government organisations, and charities such as Oxfam and British Red Cross. 

Others use the academic and transferable skills gained for careers in business, the voluntary and public sector, activism and campaigning, community development, environment, and the media. 

Alternatively you could go on to further study with an MA or PhD. 

CAREER DESTINATIONS

Career destinations related to your degree include:

• International organisations

• Governments

• Non-governmental organisations

• Activism and campaigning

• Masters and PhD programmes

• Private Sector