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MSc/PGDip International Development (Distance Learning)

The International Development (Distance Learning) course from University of Birmingham will provide you with an understanding of the evolution of thinking and practice in international development over the last fifty to sixty years.

Quick Facts

  
Part-Time Duration: 2-4 years (MSc)
18 months – 4 years (PGDip)
Starting in: September
Tuition Fee: £14,007 per full (MSc)
£9,660 per full (PGDip)
Location: Online

The core module on the International Development by distance learning course aims to familiarise you with the key concepts (eg development and poverty) and theories (eg modernisation, dependency, neo-liberalism and the ‘crisis’ in development theory) and with the changing roles of international development organisations and states in promoting international development (eg through aid, trade and fiscal, monetary and social policies).

The emphasis throughout will be on encouraging you to reflect critically on what has worked well or not and why. You will select five optional modules (at 20 credits each) based on your individual interests and career aspirations.

Courses included:

  • International Development
  • Conflict and Development
  • Development in Practice (Distance Learning)
  • Development Politics
  • Disability and Development (Distance Learning)
  • Development Projects and Programmes
  • Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development

“The transition from undergrad to postgrad can be a big step up in terms of workload and what is expected of you, but there is so much support available to you as a postgrad student, from academic writing support (if you’ve been out of education for a few years or just want a bit of extra help) to mental health and wellbeing services. The careers support is fantastic – the uni puts on employer fairs throughout the year and you have access to one on one support from the Careers Network team, who can help you develop your skills ready for your next step!”

Emma Sutton // PhD Psychology

Careers

Graduates from this programme have gone on to work within a wide range of development agencies, including NGOs (local and international), civil society organisations, government departments and the UN agencies. Those already working as development professionals have frequently progressed to more senior positions.

While our degrees are tailored to a career in development, the skills taught are also highly transferable to other sectors. For example, past students such as Immy Kaur and Alexis Kiray have gone on to work in academia, the civil service, business and the armed forces.

Requirements

  • An upper second-class Honours degree or equivalent from an approved university or an equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field (the equivalent US Grade Point Average is 3.2) or
  • A lower second-class Honours degree from an approved university with excellent work experience.
  • Degrees from all disciplines are considered and a candidate’s work experience can also be taken into consideration.

Learn more