MSc Economic Development

Program Overview

The MSc Economic Development program at the University of Glasgow is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of economic development theories, practices, and policies. The program focuses on the economic challenges faced by both developed and developing nations, particularly issues such as poverty alleviation, economic inequality, and sustainable growth. Students are exposed to cutting-edge research and practical strategies aimed at fostering economic resilience, enhancing social equity, and promoting environmental sustainability. The curriculum offers a blend of theoretical foundations and practical learning, preparing graduates to analyze and address complex economic problems in real-world contexts. Students also have the opportunity to engage in a research project or dissertation, allowing them to apply their academic learning to practical issues and contribute to the field of economic development.

Curriculum: The MSc Economic Development curriculum at the University of Glasgow is designed to offer both broad and specialized knowledge, with core modules focusing on key areas of economic development. Core modules include subjects such as Development Economics, Globalization and Economic Development, Poverty, Inequality and Social Justice, and Economic Policy Analysis. These modules allow students to critically analyze global economic systems, the role of institutions, and the impact of global challenges like climate change, financial crises, and migration. In addition to the core modules, students can choose from a range of electives that allow them to specialize in specific areas of interest, such as International Trade and Development, Labour Markets and Development, and Environmental Economics. The curriculum also incorporates quantitative methods, econometrics, and policy evaluation techniques, ensuring that students are equipped with the tools to assess the effectiveness of economic policies. Students benefit from a highly interactive learning environment that includes lectures, seminars, and group discussions, as well as opportunities for hands-on research through data analysis and case studies.

Research Focus: The MSc Economic Development program at the University of Glasgow is rooted in the university's globally recognized research in economic development. Research within the program spans a wide range of topics, with faculty members leading innovative projects that address critical global issues. Areas of research include poverty alleviation, economic inequality, sustainable development, climate change economics, and international trade. The university has a strong focus on evidence-based development, with research often conducted in collaboration with international organizations, government agencies, and NGOs. Students benefit from being part of a dynamic research community, engaging with faculty on cutting-edge research, and contributing to projects that aim to inform and influence economic policies around the world. Through their dissertations or research projects, students have the opportunity to conduct original research that directly addresses issues of economic development, providing them with a platform to make a meaningful contribution to the field.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Economic Development program at the University of Glasgow is designed with a strong emphasis on industry engagement and practical experience. The university has established partnerships with a wide range of international organizations, including development agencies, financial institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and policy think tanks. These partnerships provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through internships, field placements, and collaborative research projects. Students also benefit from networking opportunities through guest lectures, seminars, and workshops delivered by experts in the field of economic development. These engagements help students understand the complexities of economic development policy, from a practical and organizational standpoint, and prepare them for careers in global institutions, national governments, NGOs, and private sector firms. The program also offers career support services tailored to the needs of students pursuing careers in international development, policy-making, and economic consulting.

Global Perspective: The MSc Economic Development program at the University of Glasgow is designed with a global perspective, reflecting the interconnected nature of the world’s economies and the need for comprehensive solutions to global economic challenges. Students examine how development issues manifest differently across various regions, from emerging markets to developed economies, and explore how policies can address local needs within a global context. The program provides students with a thorough understanding of the global economic landscape, including the roles of international financial institutions, development aid organizations, and multinational corporations. The diverse student body, coming from various backgrounds and regions, creates an international learning environment where different perspectives on economic development are shared and discussed. By fostering a global outlook, the program prepares students to work in diverse settings and collaborate on international development initiatives, ensuring that they are well-equipped to tackle the complex, interconnected issues that affect economic development worldwide.