MSc Financial Economics
The MSc Financial Economics program at the University of Birmingham is a rigorous and r...
MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development
Birmingham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development program at the University of Birmingham offers a rigorous academic curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills. It delves into the underlying causes of poverty, social exclusion, and inequality, with a focus on understanding their impact on marginalized groups and developing policies and strategies for addressing these issues. The program covers a range of development theories, strategies, and approaches, enabling students to critically evaluate current development practices. In addition to taught modules, students have the opportunity to engage in a research project, allowing them to apply their learning to real-world issues in development.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of development issues. Core modules include Theories of Poverty and Inequality, where students explore key concepts and frameworks related to poverty and inequality, and Global Development and Social Change, which focuses on the historical and contemporary processes of development. Other modules address themes such as International Human Rights, Social Protection Systems, and Development Policy. The program also offers optional modules that allow students to tailor their learning to specific areas of interest, such as Gender and Development, Environmental Sustainability, and Global Health. Students are encouraged to engage in critical debates about development and its implications for policy-making and practice.
Research Focus: The University of Birmingham has a strong research focus on development studies, with particular emphasis on poverty reduction, social justice, and sustainable development. The research environment encourages students to explore the complexities of poverty and inequality in both local and global contexts. Faculty members at the university conduct cutting-edge research on a range of development issues, including global health, human rights, and economic inequality. Students have the opportunity to work with experts in the field, conducting independent research on topics such as poverty alleviation strategies, education and development, and the role of international organizations in tackling global inequalities. The university’s research institutes and centers, such as the International Development Department, provide a collaborative platform for students to engage with ongoing research projects.
Industry Engagement: The MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development program at the University of Birmingham has strong links with industry, development organizations, and policy-makers. The program’s connections to international NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions provide students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in development practice. Through guest lectures, field trips, and internships, students gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the development sector. The university also collaborates with a wide range of organizations working on poverty reduction, humanitarian aid, and international development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for careers in the field.
Global Perspective: The MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development program is designed with a global outlook, addressing development challenges faced by both low-income countries and developed nations. The program examines how global processes, such as globalization, climate change, and conflict, influence poverty and inequality, and it explores how international organizations, governments, and civil society can work together to foster inclusive development. With a diverse student body representing countries from all over the world, students benefit from a rich exchange of perspectives on global development issues. The program’s international focus is further enhanced by the university’s global network of academic partners, providing students with opportunities to engage with development challenges in a variety of geographical and cultural contexts.
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 Poverty, Inequality and Development program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to pursue diverse and rewarding careers in the field of international development and poverty reduction.
Development Consultant: Graduates can work as development consultants, providing expert advice to governments, NGOs, and international organizations on poverty reduction strategies.
Policy Analyst: Graduates may pursue roles as policy analysts, researching and evaluating poverty alleviation policies and making recommendations for improvements.
Project Manager: Graduates can work as project managers, overseeing development projects aimed at addressing poverty and inequality in specific regions.
Research Analyst: Graduates may work as research analysts, conducting studies on poverty and inequality issues and contributing to evidence-based policymaking.
Social Impact Analyst: Graduates can work in the social impact sector, assessing the effectiveness of development initiatives and measuring their impact on vulnerable communities.
Advocacy Officer: Graduates may pursue roles as advocacy officers, advocating for policy changes and social reforms to address poverty and inequality.
Academic Researcher: Graduates can pursue academic careers, conducting research and publishing scholarly articles on poverty, inequality, and development topics.
