MSc International Development
The International Development programme from University of Birmingham 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.
Quick Facts
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| Duration: |
1 year (Full-Time)
2 years (Part-Time) |
| Starting in: |
September |
| Tuition Fee: |
£22,950 per year |
| Location: |
Birmingham, United Kingdom |
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.
Each 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 99 different countries and a wide variety of professional and academic backgrounds.
By the end of your study you will gain:
- An in-depth understanding of competing development theories – their origins, their continuities and their differences – and the ability to critically evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
- An understanding and ability to critique the distinctions between economic, social and political approaches to development.
- An understanding of the role of international institutions (such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organisation) in the processes of development and an ability to critique the theoretical underpinnings of these institutions.
- The ability to critically appraise the role of the state in the governance of developing countries.
- Writing skills to produce well structured and coherent essays and reports, making good use of references.
- Oral presentation skills.
