MA Development Studies

The MA in Development Studies is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of development issues from a global perspective. Students engage with critical debates and practical approaches to development, preparing them to work effectively in diverse international contexts. The program is offered in both full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 years) formats, allowing flexibility to accommodate different professional and personal commitments. ​

Curriculum: The curriculum includes core modules such as Ideas in Development and Policy, Evidence and Practice, and Research Design, which provide a solid grounding in development theory and research methodologies. Students also have the opportunity to choose from a range of optional modules, allowing them to tailor their studies to specific interests within the field of development. The program culminates in a dissertation, enabling students to undertake independent research on a topic of their choice. ​

Research Focus: The program emphasizes the development of research skills, enabling students to critically evaluate and contribute to the field of development studies. Through the dissertation component, students engage in original research, applying the methodologies and techniques learned throughout the course to address specific questions or problems in development. ​

Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex fosters strong connections with industry partners, providing students with opportunities to apply their learning in real-world contexts. The program encourages collaboration with professionals from various sectors, facilitating internships and projects that enhance employability and provide practical experience. ​

Global Perspective: The MA in Development Studies attracts a diverse cohort of students from around the world, enriching the learning experience with a variety of perspectives. The curriculum incorporates global case studies and examples, preparing students to address development challenges in an international context. Graduates are equipped to work in global organizations, contributing to development initiatives across different regions.

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 65% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.

Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.

Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.

Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.

Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.

​The MA in Development Studies at the University of Sussex offers a comprehensive and globally recognized postgraduate program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in the international development sector. This course provides a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, sustainability, and human rights. Graduates are equipped with the analytical, research, and practical skills necessary to contribute effectively to development initiatives worldwide.​

International Development Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants, providing expertise to organizations on development projects, policy analysis, and program evaluations.​

Policy Analyst in Development Organizations: With a strong foundation in development theory and practice, graduates can analyze and influence policies in governmental and non-governmental organizations.​

Project Manager in Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Graduates can manage development projects, overseeing implementation, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure effectiveness and sustainability.​

Researcher in Development Studies: Engaging in academic or applied research, graduates contribute to the body of knowledge in development studies, informing practice and policy.​

Development Program Officer in International Agencies: Working with international agencies, graduates can design and implement development programs that address global challenges.