MSc Development Studies

Program Overview

The MSc Development Studies program at the University of Glasgow offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex social, economic, and political challenges of global development. The program combines theoretical insights from economics, politics, sociology, and geography with practical skills in development practice, research, and policy analysis. Students examine global development issues from a variety of perspectives, including poverty alleviation, social inclusion, gender equality, human rights, and climate change. Through a mix of lectures, seminars, and workshops, students gain both a deep understanding of development theories and practical strategies for implementing development programs in diverse contexts. The program culminates in a research project or dissertation, where students can explore a development topic of their interest in depth, applying their learning to real-world challenges.

Curriculum: The MSc Development Studies curriculum at the University of Glasgow is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of development issues while allowing for specialization in key areas of interest. Core modules include subjects such as Global Development Theory, Political Economy of Development, Research Methods for Development Studies, and Sustainable Development and Environmental Change. These core courses provide students with the foundational knowledge of development processes, as well as the tools to critically evaluate policies and practices. Additionally, students can choose from a range of elective modules that allow them to specialize in areas such as Development Economics, Social Policy and Inequality, Gender and Development, and Human Rights and International Development. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of both theory and practice, with a focus on evidence-based research and policy analysis. The program also includes opportunities for students to engage in internships and placements, giving them hands-on experience in development settings.

Research Focus: The MSc Development Studies program at the University of Glasgow is rooted in the university's strong research culture, which focuses on critical global challenges such as poverty, inequality, sustainable development, and social justice. The university is home to leading researchers in development studies, with expertise spanning across a wide range of areas, including environmental sustainability, economic development, conflict and peacebuilding, and global health. Research in the program is interdisciplinary, drawing on insights from economics, sociology, political science, anthropology, and geography. Faculty members are actively engaged in research that seeks to understand the drivers of global poverty and inequality, explore the impacts of climate change on development, and design innovative solutions to support sustainable development goals (SDGs). Students benefit from being part of a vibrant research community, where they can engage with ongoing projects, collaborate with faculty members, and contribute to cutting-edge development research through their own dissertations and independent studies.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Development Studies program at the University of Glasgow places a strong emphasis on industry engagement and real-world experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared to enter the development sector. The university has established strong links with a wide range of international development organizations, NGOs, policy think tanks, and government agencies. Students have access to a variety of opportunities for internships, placements, and fieldwork, allowing them to apply their academic learning in real-world development contexts. The program also hosts guest lectures and seminars from development professionals, providing students with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of working in the development sector. These industry connections help students build their professional networks, gain hands-on experience, and enhance their employability upon graduation. Additionally, the university’s career services offer tailored support for students pursuing careers in international development, humanitarian aid, research, policy-making, and non-profit organizations.

Global Perspective: The MSc Development Studies program at the University of Glasgow offers a global perspective, reflecting the interconnected nature of development challenges and solutions in today’s world. The program examines global issues such as climate change, migration, global health crises, and economic inequality, considering how these issues affect different regions and populations. Students explore development challenges in both the Global South and the Global North, gaining an understanding of the complex relationships between developed and developing countries. The program’s international focus is reinforced by the university’s diverse student body, with students from all over the world bringing their unique experiences and perspectives on development. Through this global network, students are exposed to a variety of development practices and policies, which helps them understand the complexities of development in different cultural and political contexts. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to work in a wide range of international development contexts, whether in global institutions, national governments, NGOs, or research organizations.