MSc Global Development
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
SOAS University of London, located in the heart of one of the world's most diverse cities, offers a distinct academic experience with a focus on global and regional studies. Founded in 1916, SOAS is renowned for its unique approach to higher education, particularly in the fields of humanities, social sciences, and languages. The university’s MSc in Global Development is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of global development issues, addressing the challenges faced by both developing and developed countries. It combines theoretical learning with practical insights into development policies, global economics, and social change, preparing students for careers in international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector.
Curriculum: The MSc in Global Development at SOAS University of London offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum that covers a wide range of development topics. Students engage with core subjects like global political economy, sustainable development, inequality, poverty, and human rights. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on political science, economics, anthropology, and sociology. Students also explore regional case studies that focus on Africa, Asia, and Latin America, providing an essential context for understanding development challenges and solutions. The curriculum includes both theoretical and applied elements, ensuring that students gain a balanced view of development that is grounded in real-world practice.
Research Focus: SOAS University of London has a strong research focus on global development, with an emphasis on understanding the economic, political, and social forces that shape global inequalities. The university is home to several research institutes, such as the SOAS Global Development Institute, which provides a platform for cutting-edge research in development studies. Researchers at SOAS investigate a wide range of issues, including sustainable development, global governance, migration, conflict resolution, and the role of international institutions. The university encourages students to engage in independent research, and the MSc Global Development program offers opportunities for students to undertake original research projects that address pressing global challenges.
Industry Engagement: SOAS University of London fosters strong ties with industry and offers numerous opportunities for students to engage with professionals from the development sector. The university has established partnerships with international organizations, governments, NGOs, and businesses, allowing students to benefit from internships, placements, and guest lectures by experts in the field. These engagements provide students with practical insights and networking opportunities, enhancing their employability and career prospects. Additionally, SOAS hosts events such as conferences, seminars, and workshops that connect students with practitioners and academics, facilitating the exchange of ideas and knowledge.
Global Perspective: One of the standout features of SOAS University of London is its global perspective. The university has a diverse student body from over 130 countries, creating an inclusive learning environment that reflects the multicultural world in which we live. SOAS is committed to fostering global citizenship and encouraging students to think critically about global issues from multiple perspectives. The MSc Global Development program specifically addresses the complexities of global development and equips students with the tools to analyze development policies and practices from a global standpoint, while also recognizing regional and local variations. This global outlook is reinforced through various study-abroad opportunities, international field trips, and collaborations with universities worldwide.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25320
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Graduates of the MSc Global Development program at SOAS University of London are highly sought after by employers worldwide, thanks to the interdisciplinary and global focus of the program. The program is structured to provide students with the expertise needed to work in a variety of sectors related to international development.
International Organizations: Graduates are well-positioned for careers in major international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Health Organization (WHO). These institutions require professionals who can assess and design development strategies, manage large-scale humanitarian projects, and engage in global governance processes. MSc Global Development graduates can work in areas such as policy analysis, project management, and research.
Government and Public Sector: SOAS MSc Global Development graduates are equipped with the analytical skills needed for roles in government agencies focused on international relations, development cooperation, foreign affairs, and sustainable development. Graduates can find positions in ministries of foreign affairs, international trade, or those working in diplomatic missions. They might work as policy advisors, development planners, or in roles related to bilateral or multilateral development assistance.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Charities: Many MSc Global Development graduates pursue careers in the NGO sector, working with organizations that address critical global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and human rights. NGOs such as Oxfam, Save the Children, and Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) often seek professionals who can design, implement, and evaluate development projects. Roles might include project management, fundraising, policy advocacy, and monitoring and evaluation.
Private Sector and Corporations: Some graduates opt to enter the private sector, focusing on corporate social responsibility (CSR), ethical business practices, or sustainability. Companies that operate in developing countries often require development experts to ensure their operations contribute positively to local economies and societies. Career roles in the private sector may include sustainability consultant, CSR coordinator, or social impact analyst.
Academic and Research Institutions: For those interested in pursuing further study or research, the MSc Global Development program provides a solid foundation for a career in academia. Graduates may choose to continue their research in PhD programs at top universities, contributing to the development of new policies, theories, and practices in the field of international development. Research roles in think tanks or academic institutions are another possible career path.
Consulting Firms: International development consulting firms such as McKinsey & Company, PwC, or Deloitte offer consulting services to governments, NGOs, and corporations. These firms are interested in development experts who can provide policy advice, conduct research, and design sustainable development strategies. Consultants in this field analyze and assess the impact of development projects and provide solutions to complex issues such as poverty, health, education, and environmental sustainability.
Social Enterprises: Social enterprises are businesses with a social mission. These organizations seek professionals who can create business models that benefit communities while also achieving financial sustainability. MSc Global Development graduates can pursue careers in social enterprise strategy, social innovation, and impact investment, helping businesses scale their operations while achieving social good.
Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief: Humanitarian organizations require development professionals to manage disaster response programs, humanitarian aid distribution, and conflict resolution strategies. Graduates can join organizations such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) or the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in roles that involve logistics coordination, crisis management, and emergency response.
Environmental and Climate Change Roles: As global development increasingly intersects with environmental sustainability, graduates of the MSc Global Development program may focus on environmental and climate change issues. They can pursue careers in organizations such as Greenpeace, the Environmental Defense Fund, or governmental bodies dealing with climate policy, environmental justice, or resource management. Roles may include environmental policy analysis, sustainability planning, and climate change adaptation strategies.
International Development Journalism and Media: Those with a passion for storytelling may pursue a career in journalism or media, focusing on international development issues. They could work for development-focused news outlets, write reports on global issues, or contribute to media campaigns aimed at raising awareness about social justice, human rights, and global development challenges.
