MSc Financial Economics
The MSc Financial Economics program at the University of Birmingham is a rigorous and r...
MSc International Development
Birmingham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc International Development program at the University of Birmingham is ideal for students who are passionate about addressing global inequalities and making a positive impact on the world. The program offers a blend of theoretical foundations and practical insights into development policies, interventions, and global issues. Students will engage with topics such as global poverty, human rights, gender equality, and sustainable development while gaining valuable skills in research, policy analysis, and project management. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the global, national, and local dimensions of development, with a focus on the interconnections between social, political, and economic processes.
Curriculum: The MSc International Development curriculum provides a well-rounded education in international development theory, practice, and policy. Core modules include Global Development which explores the history and key debates surrounding international development, Research Methods where students develop critical skills to conduct academic and field research, and Development Policy and Practice which examines the role of institutions and actors in shaping development interventions. Optional modules allow students to specialize in areas of interest, such as Climate Change and Development, Gender and Development, and Humanitarian Action and Crisis Response. Students also complete a dissertation project, providing an opportunity to engage in independent research and address a real-world development challenge.
Research Focus: The University of Birmingham has a strong research focus in the field of international development, with an emphasis on sustainable development, social justice, and the analysis of power dynamics in global development processes. The research conducted within the program draws on cutting-edge theoretical and empirical work and offers students the chance to engage in contemporary debates. Students are encouraged to pursue research in topics such as global governance, economic development, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian intervention, working alongside experienced researchers and contributing to the ongoing development of the field. The university’s research institutes and centers provide ample opportunities for students to collaborate on impactful projects and gain insights into the latest academic advancements.
Industry Engagement: The MSc International Development program benefits from the University of Birmingham’s strong links with a wide range of organizations involved in international development, including international NGOs, government agencies, and global development consultancies. Through placements, internships, and collaboration with development practitioners, students can apply their learning in real-world contexts. The program also offers students access to development-related events, such as workshops, seminars, and conferences, where they can network with professionals and gain exposure to current issues and innovative solutions. These connections to the industry provide students with the opportunity to develop practical skills and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities within the international development sector.
Global Perspective: The MSc International Development program at the University of Birmingham offers a global perspective on development issues, encouraging students to critically engage with development challenges from around the world. The program’s curriculum is designed to explore the diverse experiences of development in various regions, from the Global South to the Global North, and highlights the importance of understanding local contexts in international development. The university’s international partnerships, global research initiatives, and diverse student body ensure that students are exposed to a variety of perspectives and approaches to development. This global perspective is essential for developing the knowledge and skills needed to work in international development organizations and contribute to solving global challenges.
Location
Birmingham
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 28220
Postgraduate Entry Requirements:
- Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 50%-60% or equivalent.
- English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88, with at least 20 in Listening, 21 in Reading, 22 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67 with no individual score below 64.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of Birmingham offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies.
Academic Scholarships: These are awarded to students who achieve outstanding academic results. The scholarship amount varies depending on the course and level of study.
Sports Scholarships: These are awarded to students who excel in sports. The scholarship covers the cost of tuition fees and accommodation.
International Scholarships: These are awarded to international students who demonstrate academic excellence. The scholarship covers the cost of tuition fees and provides a maintenance allowance.
Subject-specific Scholarships: These are awarded to students studying certain subjects. The scholarship amount and eligibility criteria vary depending on the subject.
The University of Birmingham provides excellent facilities, is highly ranked, and offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students.
The MSc International Development program opens up diverse and rewarding career paths for graduates with a passion for making a positive impact on global development.
Development Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants for international development organizations, providing expertise and recommendations for development projects.
Policy Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers as policy analysts, advising governments and NGOs on development policies and strategies.
Project Manager: Graduates can work as project managers, overseeing development initiatives and ensuring their successful implementation.
Humanitarian Aid Worker: Graduates with a focus on disaster and humanitarian response can work for organizations providing aid and support in crisis-affected regions.
Research and Academia: The program prepares students for research-oriented roles in academia, think tanks, and research organizations, contributing to the development discourse.
Social Enterprise Manager: Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit can lead social enterprises that address development challenges while promoting sustainable solutions.
