MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BSc International Development with a Placement Year
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc International Development with a Placement Year offers a comprehensive understanding of the key issues shaping global development today. Students examine topics such as economic growth, human rights, environmental sustainability, and international trade, while also considering the political, social, and economic factors that impact development outcomes. The placement year, which typically takes place between the second and third years, provides valuable hands-on experience in a professional development context, enabling students to apply their academic learning in real-world settings. This experience is crucial for those looking to pursue careers in international organizations, NGOs, government, or consultancy.
Curriculum: The curriculum for this program combines core modules in development theory with practical applications. In the first year, students gain a solid grounding in key concepts such as development economics, political analysis, and sustainability. As students progress through the program, they have the opportunity to choose specialized modules in areas like global health, gender and development, and international relations. The second year includes a focus on more in-depth topics such as development policy, humanitarian aid, and the roles of international organizations. The placement year allows students to gain real-world experience working with organizations addressing global development challenges. In the final year, students engage with advanced topics and undertake a research project that allows them to explore a specific issue in development in depth.
Research Focus: The University of Reading’s Department of International Development emphasizes research that addresses contemporary global challenges, including the impacts of climate change, migration, human rights, and the role of international institutions in shaping development outcomes. Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research in various aspects of international development, and students are encouraged to explore these themes through their coursework and dissertation projects. Research areas include sustainable development, development economics, global health, and the governance of international aid. The research focus not only enhances the students' academic experience but also prepares them for careers in research institutions or organizations working on development issues.
Industry Engagement: The program is structured to provide extensive industry engagement through the placement year, during which students gain practical experience working with NGOs, international organizations, or government agencies. This placement year allows students to develop critical skills such as project management, research, policy analysis, and cross-cultural communication. The University of Reading has strong links with a variety of international development organizations, both in the UK and abroad, providing students with opportunities for professional development. Students are also encouraged to participate in internships, volunteering, and networking events to further enhance their industry experience.
Global Perspective: With a focus on international development, the program is designed to give students a global perspective on development issues. The University of Reading has a diverse and international student body, creating a global learning environment. Students are encouraged to consider development challenges from a variety of regional and cultural perspectives, exploring the intersections of global issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. The placement year provides an invaluable opportunity to engage with development work in different parts of the world, broadening students' understanding of global development practices and their impact.
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 with a Placement Year at the University of Reading offers a range of exciting career options across various sectors, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations, government agencies, and the private sector. With a combination of academic knowledge and practical experience gained through the placement year, graduates are well-equipped to tackle global challenges and contribute to development efforts worldwide.
International Development Organizations and NGOs: Graduates are highly sought after by international development organizations and NGOs focused on alleviating poverty, advancing human rights, and fostering sustainable development. Roles in these organizations include project manager, policy advisor, researcher, and communications specialist. Students gain hands-on experience through the placement year, which can significantly enhance their employability in this sector.
Government and Public Sector: Many graduates pursue careers within government agencies or international bodies such as the United Nations, World Bank, and various national development ministries. They may take roles in policy analysis, foreign relations, or international aid coordination. The program equips students with the skills needed to analyze and implement policies that address global challenges.
Private Sector and Consultancy: With strong analytical and research skills, graduates are well-suited for roles in consultancy firms specializing in development economics, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Many private-sector organizations hire development experts to advise on global issues and help them implement responsible business practices in the international arena.
Humanitarian and Emergency Aid: Graduates may choose to work in humanitarian aid organizations such as the Red Cross or Médecins Sans Frontières, where they contribute to disaster relief, emergency response coordination, and the provision of healthcare in crisis zones. The placement year offers a chance to build practical experience in these fields.
International Trade and Development Economics: Students with an interest in economics can pursue careers in international trade, development finance, and economic policy. These roles often involve advising governments, international organizations, and private businesses on strategies to promote economic development, trade policies, and financial inclusion.
Research and Academia: Some graduates continue their studies by pursuing advanced degrees (e.g., MSc, PhD) in international development or related fields. This path can lead to roles in academic research or think tanks, contributing to the development of new policies and practices aimed at addressing global issues.
Global Health and Environmental Sustainability: Graduates interested in global health or environmental sustainability can work for organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or environmental NGOs. Careers in these fields involve developing and implementing strategies for improving public health and addressing the effects of climate change on vulnerable communities.
