Overview
You will explore theories of development in historical context from 1945 up to the present day in a single compulsory module. The theories are then applied to contemporary development approaches and issues. Throughout, the emphasis is on you developing a critical understanding of the evolution of development theories over the last half century and its implications for present day thinking about development.
You can then select the remaining five modules to suit your own needs and interests. You could, for example, take modules in rural and urban poverty reduction, on conflict and development or gender and development. You could also take modules on project management, disaster management or governance. Many other modules are also available to choose from.
Each programme is taught by a team of multi-disciplinary specialists who work closely with you to address individual interests and concerns. Every student is allocated an academic tutor to support you in your academic progress throughout the year. The department has a long history of teaching students from across the world, and recent students have come from 99 different countries and a wide variety of professional and academic backgrounds.
Why study this course?
The International Development programme from University of Birmingham is useful if you have not yet decided what specialist path to follow within the field. It will also give you the maximum possible flexibility in tailoring the programme to your own particular interests, by allowing you to choose five of the six courses that form part of the taught part of the programme.
The programme does not assume any prior knowledge of international development and we welcome applications from candidates who meet the admissions criteria.
Programme Structure
By the end of your study you will gain:
- An in-depth understanding of competing development theories – their origins, their continuities and their differences – and the ability to critically evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
- An understanding and ability to critique the distinctions between economic, social and political approaches to development.
- An understanding of the role of international institutions (such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organisation) in the processes of development and an ability to critique the theoretical underpinnings of these institutions.
- The ability to critically appraise the role of the state in the governance of developing countries.
- Writing skills to produce well structured and coherent essays and reports, making good use of references.
- Oral presentation skills.
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 12 months
- Part-time
- 24 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before , National
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- Starting
- Apply before , International
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Language
Credits
Delivered
Disciplines
International Relations International Development View 550 other Masters in International Relations in United KingdomAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
- An upper second-class Honours degree or equivalent from an approved university or an equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field (the equivalent US Grade Point Average is 3.2) or
- A lower second-class Honours degree from an approved university with excellent work experience.
- Adequate capacity in written and spoken English. Find out more about on international entry requirements
- Degrees from all disciplines are considered and a candidate's work experience can also be taken into consideration.
Tuition Fee
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International
21060 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 21060 GBP for the full programme during 12 months. -
National
10260 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 10260 GBP for the full programme during 12 months.
- £5,130PT (Home students)
Living costs for Birmingham
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.