Development Practice

Overview

The last thirty years have seen major changes in our understanding of social and economic change, transition and development. These complex processes are situated in a system of global interconnections and influences and require considerable attention to the specifics of local situations and circumstances. On the MA Development Practice course, you will gain critical perspectives on these changes, and learn how to effectively contribute to future developments.

Because of this tension between the global and the local, subtle understanding of the interplay of social, cultural, political and economic variables is required, involving various actors and agents including states, international organisations (UN, FAO, WHO, ILO, IFAD, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNRISD, WIDER, WFP), the multilateral and bilateral aid agencies (World Bank, DFID, SIDA), NGOs (Oxfam, Action Aid, Transparency International and others), social movements (World Economic Forum, World Summit on Social Development) and the private sector in any particular context. The course curriculum includes intensive treatment of all these issues.

Opportunities

Over the year, and across two central Critical Issues modules, you’ll develop a rigorous and deep critique of the ways NGOs and other agencies work, and the political contexts of development.

Practical issues are at the heart of this MA in Development Practice at University of East Anglia. For that reason you’ll also focus on the issues and challenges raised during project planning, management and implementation. You’ll work as part of a team with your fellow students to propose innovative solutions to classic development problems.

You will benefit from research-led teaching, ensuring you encounter the latest thinking in the field. Research in UEA’s School of International Development is focused on addressing contemporary challenges in developing and transition economies via disciplinary and multi-interdisciplinary approaches.