MSc International Development

Postgraduate entry requirements:

Application fee : £50

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc International Development program at the University of Edinburgh are well-prepared for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the field of international development, both within governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as in research institutions, academia, and the private sector.  

1. International NGOs and Development Agencies: Graduates can work for international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and development agencies, such as Oxfam, Save the Children, CARE International, and World Vision. They may hold roles in program management, project coordination, monitoring and evaluation, advocacy, and fundraising, contributing to development projects in areas such as education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian assistance.

2. Multilateral Organizations: Graduates may pursue careers with multilateral organizations, including the United Nations (UN), World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), and regional development banks. They may work in areas such as sustainable development, environmental conservation, gender equality, peacebuilding, and disaster risk reduction, influencing policy and programmatic interventions at the global level.

3. Government Agencies and Ministries: Graduates can work for governmental agencies and ministries responsible for international development, foreign affairs, and cooperation. They may engage in policy analysis, program design, and implementation, representing their governments in international forums, negotiating agreements, and coordinating development assistance initiatives with partner countries and organizations.

4. Research and Academic Institutions: Graduates may pursue research and academic careers in universities, think tanks, and research institutions focused on international development studies. They may conduct research on development issues, publish scholarly articles, and teach courses on topics such as development theory, global governance, and sustainable development, contributing to academic debates and knowledge generation in the field.

5. Social Enterprises and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Graduates interested in social entrepreneurship and corporate social responsibility (CSR) may work for social enterprises, impact investment funds, or corporate foundations. They may develop and implement innovative business models, partnerships, and CSR initiatives aimed at addressing social and environmental challenges, while generating positive social impact and financial returns.