LLM Law
University College Cork offers an LLM (Master of Laws) program designed to provide adva...
BSc Hons International Development
Cork
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) International Development program at University College Cork (UCC) provides students with a comprehensive understanding of global development issues, policies, and practices, preparing them for careers in international development organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, and related fields. Situated in Cork, Ireland, UCC offers a vibrant and inclusive learning environment where students engage with interdisciplinary perspectives, critical analysis, and practical experiences to address complex challenges facing communities worldwide. This program explores themes such as poverty alleviation, social justice, human rights, sustainable development, and global inequalities, empowering students to become agents of positive change in a rapidly changing world.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Development Studies: The BSc (Hons) International Development program adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from fields such as sociology, economics, political science, geography, environmental studies, and anthropology to understand the complexities of global development processes. Students explore the interconnectedness of social, economic, political, cultural, and environmental factors shaping development outcomes, gaining a holistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing communities worldwide.
Critical Analysis of Development Policies and Practices: Students engage in critical analysis of development policies, strategies, and interventions implemented by governments, international organizations, and NGOs. They examine the impacts of development initiatives on marginalized populations, environmental sustainability, gender equality, and human rights, critically assessing the underlying assumptions, power dynamics, and ethical implications of development interventions. Through case studies and real-world examples, students develop the analytical skills and ethical awareness needed to navigate complex development contexts.
Fieldwork and Practical Experience: The program emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork, internships, and practical experiences in local and international settings. Students have the opportunity to engage with development projects, community-based organizations, and NGOs, gaining firsthand experience in grassroots development initiatives, participatory research methods, and cross-cultural engagement. Fieldwork experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts, develop practical skills, and build networks within the international development sector.
Global Perspectives and Cultural Competence: Students develop global perspectives and cultural competence through exposure to diverse cultures, perspectives, and lived experiences. They explore issues of cultural diversity, identity, power dynamics, and intercultural communication in the context of development practice, recognizing the importance of respectful and ethical engagement with communities and stakeholders. Students learn to navigate cultural differences, build trust-based relationships, and collaborate effectively in multicultural environments.
Policy Analysis and Advocacy Skills: The program equips students with policy analysis and advocacy skills to address pressing development challenges and promote social change. Students learn to conduct policy research, analyze development trends, and evaluate the effectiveness of policy interventions in achieving sustainable development goals. They develop communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills to mobilize support for policy reforms, raise awareness of social justice issues, and advocate for marginalized communities' rights and interests.
Career Development and Professional Skills: Throughout the program, students receive guidance and support to develop their career pathways and professional skills in the field of international development. They have access to career workshops, networking events, and internship opportunities to gain practical experience and build connections with potential employers. Students develop skills in project management, fundraising, grant writing, and cross-cultural communication, preparing them for diverse roles in NGOs, government agencies, international organizations, research institutes, and consultancy firms.
Location
Cork
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
€ 20500
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: € 50
Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs, applicants require a minimum academic score of 80-85% or above in their previous studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 or 6.5, with no individual band below 5.5.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90, with specific section requirements: Listening 20, Reading 20, Speaking 21, Writing 20.
- PTE: Overall score of 63, with no section below 59.
- DET: Overall score of 120, with a minimum of 110.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.
University College Cork (UCC) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are aimed at assisting students with tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs.
International Merit-Based Scholarships: UCC provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate or postgraduate programs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and may cover partial tuition fees or provide stipends.
Government and External Scholarships: International students may also be eligible for scholarships offered by their home governments, non-governmental organizations, or external funding bodies. UCC assists students by providing information and support in applying for these external scholarship opportunities.
Research Scholarships and Grants: For postgraduate research students, UCC offers various grants and scholarships to support research endeavors. These scholarships often cover tuition fees and provide additional stipends for living expenses.
Sports Scholarships: UCC recognizes talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and athletic pursuits. These scholarships assist students in balancing their sports with their studies.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Certain faculties or departments within UCC offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract exceptional students to particular programs and fields of study.
Need-Based Financial Aid: The university understands the financial challenges international students might face and offers need-based financial aid programs to assist students who demonstrate financial need.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) International Development program at University College Cork (UCC) are well-equipped for diverse and impactful career opportunities in the field of international development. With their interdisciplinary training, critical analysis skills, practical experience, and global perspectives, graduates play vital roles in addressing complex social, economic, and environmental challenges facing communities worldwide. Whether working for international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, research institutes, or consultancy firms, graduates of this program have a wide range of career pathways to explore.
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Development Project Manager: Graduates may pursue careers as development project managers, overseeing and implementing development projects in areas such as poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, or gender equality. They manage project budgets, coordinate activities with local partners and stakeholders, monitor project progress, and evaluate outcomes to ensure effective implementation and impact.
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Program Coordinator or Officer: Many graduates work as program coordinators or officers for NGOs, international organizations, or government agencies, responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating development programs and initiatives. They develop program strategies, coordinate activities, manage partnerships, and mobilize resources to address pressing development issues and achieve sustainable development goals.
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Policy Analyst or Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers as policy analysts or researchers, conducting research, analysis, and evaluation of development policies, programs, and interventions. They work for think tanks, research institutes, government agencies, or international organizations, providing evidence-based insights and recommendations to inform policy-making processes, advocate for policy reforms, and address global development challenges.
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Advocacy and Campaign Officer: Some graduates work as advocacy and campaign officers for advocacy organizations, human rights groups, or grassroots movements, advocating for social justice, human rights, and sustainable development. They design and implement advocacy campaigns, mobilize public support, engage with policymakers, and raise awareness of pressing development issues to effect positive change at local, national, and international levels.
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Community Development Worker: Graduates may work as community development workers, supporting communities' capacity-building, empowerment, and self-reliance through participatory approaches and community-based initiatives. They work for NGOs, local government agencies, or community-based organizations, facilitating community participation, organizing grassroots projects, and fostering social cohesion and resilience.
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International Aid Worker: Some graduates pursue careers as international aid workers, providing humanitarian assistance and development support in regions affected by conflict, disaster, or poverty. They work for humanitarian organizations, UN agencies, or international NGOs, delivering emergency relief, livelihood support, health services, education, and infrastructure development to vulnerable populations in crisis-affected areas.
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Consultant or Analyst in Development Consulting: Graduates may work as consultants or analysts for development consulting firms, providing expertise and advisory services to governments, NGOs, and international organizations. They conduct research, assess program effectiveness, evaluate impact, and provide strategic advice and technical assistance to clients on a wide range of development issues and challenges.
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Social Entrepreneur or Innovator: Some graduates become social entrepreneurs or innovators, launching their initiatives or startups to address social, environmental, or economic challenges through innovative solutions and business models. They develop social enterprises, sustainable development projects, or technology-driven initiatives to create positive social impact and promote inclusive and sustainable development.
