MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BSc International Development
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc International Development at the University of Reading focuses on equipping students with the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to work in the field of international development. Students engage with the study of global inequalities, development policies, and the roles of institutions in shaping global development. The program provides a multidisciplinary approach, combining political, economic, and social perspectives to address issues such as poverty, environmental sustainability, and human rights.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc International Development program is designed to give students a broad understanding of international development, along with specialized knowledge in areas such as development economics, political theory, and the role of international organizations. In the first year, students cover core topics in development studies, including the history and key debates in international development. In later years, the curriculum becomes more specialized, with modules focusing on areas like global poverty, sustainable development, and international trade. Students also develop practical skills in research methods and data analysis, which are vital for assessing development outcomes.
Research Focus: The University of Reading’s International Development program emphasizes research that is both academically rigorous and practically relevant. The faculty focuses on key development challenges, including global poverty, climate change, health disparities, and conflict resolution. Research is often interdisciplinary, drawing from fields such as economics, geography, political science, and anthropology. This focus allows students to engage with cutting-edge issues in development and to contribute to the global conversation on development solutions. The research work undertaken at Reading informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to the latest academic debates and real-world developments in the field.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the BSc International Development program at Reading. The program incorporates work placements and practical projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The University has strong links with development organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and international institutions, which provides students with opportunities for internships and collaborative projects. Students gain valuable hands-on experience in international development, which enhances their employability and prepares them for careers in the development sector. Additionally, guest speakers from the industry provide insights into the practical challenges of working in international development.
Global Perspective: The BSc International Development program at the University of Reading has a strong global perspective, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global issues. Students have opportunities to study abroad through exchange programs with partner institutions in various countries, which allows them to gain firsthand experience of development issues in different cultural and geographical contexts. The program encourages students to think critically about development policies and their global impact. The university’s emphasis on international collaboration and global learning ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in a globalized world and tackle international development challenges.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
The BSc in International Development from the University of Reading prepares graduates for a variety of rewarding career paths by equipping them with the knowledge and practical experience needed to address global development challenges. Graduates can apply their expertise in various sectors such as international development organizations, government bodies, the private sector, and research institutions.
International Organizations and NGOs: Graduates of the BSc in International Development are well-suited for roles in international organizations like the United Nations, the World Bank, and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on poverty alleviation, human rights, and global health. Positions in these fields might include project management, policy analysis, and advocacy roles that focus on sustainable development.
Government and Public Sector: Many graduates go on to work for national governments or international agencies that deal with development policy, foreign affairs, and humanitarian aid. They may take up roles as policy advisors, program coordinators, or specialists in international relations, helping to shape development initiatives both at home and abroad.
Private Sector and Consulting: The private sector also offers opportunities for International Development graduates, particularly in consultancy firms that specialize in economic development, environmental sustainability, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Graduates can work as consultants or analysts for multinational corporations, helping them implement sustainable business practices or navigate development-related challenges.
Research and Academia: With the research-oriented approach of the program, some graduates choose to pursue further studies (e.g., MSc, PhD) in international development or related fields. This pathway can lead to careers in academia or research organizations, focusing on global issues like climate change, development economics, or social justice.
Humanitarian and Emergency Aid: Graduates are also equipped for careers in emergency aid and disaster relief organizations. Humanitarian agencies such as the Red Cross or Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) offer roles in logistics, emergency response coordination, and fundraising efforts aimed at providing immediate assistance in crisis zones.
International Trade and Development Economics: Those interested in the economic side of international development can pursue careers in international trade, finance, and economic analysis. This can involve working for government departments, private firms, or multilateral agencies like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to advise on trade policies, economic strategies, and development finance.
Global Health and Environmental Sustainability: Graduates may also work in global health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), or environmental agencies addressing issues like climate change and sustainable resource management. Roles can include project management, environmental advocacy, and sustainable development planning.
