MA International Development

About the course

This course recognises that international development environments and related debates constantly evolve. It captures this dynamism in its multi-layered approach and it highlights the connections made between different disciplinary areas.

This course will introduce you to key concepts and issues related to international development. You will develop an understanding of the key structures, processes, institutions and relationships relevant to international development.

This will involve a critical analysis of the role and impact of major financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund; the role of the United Nations, with particular emphasis on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals; the role of MNCs, NGOs and civil society more generally.

You will also locate yourself within the context of processes of international development and reflect on how your actions, or inactions, help or hinder the promotion of global social justice and sustainability.

You will develop an insight into the manner in which wealth is generated and unevenly distributed and accumulated across the global economy and an awareness of how the twin agendas of social justice and sustainable development can be advanced.

Assessment

Assessment on the course involves book reviews, consultancy reports, essays, reflective blog posts and a dissertation. There are no formal examinations.

You will also prepare an assessed dissertation proposal as part of the research training element of the degree.

Career development

The course is designed to enhance your employability prospects by engagement with both conceptual dimensions and the practical aspects of the work based placement. Using our links with industry, you will have the opportunity to gain experience and vital contacts within a wide range of roles directly linked to international development.

Graduates have gone on to work in posts in local, regional and national governments, intergovernmental organisations (including the UN and EC), multinational corporations (MNCs) and a range of development related non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Several international alumni have returned to positions working within government departments of their home countries.