Digital Development The University of Manchester

Overview

The Digital Development programme offered at The University of Manchester is a cutting-edge programme designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become a digital development champion. In an era of rapid digital expansion across the Global South, there is a growing demand for professionals who understand not only the technology itself, but also its role in delivering meaningful socio-economic change.

Delivered by The University of Manchester’s world-leading Centre for Digital Development, the course blends theory and practice in a way that few others do. You’ll explore key conceptual frameworks that unpack how digital tools such as mobile health (m-health), e-government platforms, ICT-enabled enterprises, MOOCs and more can be harnessed in pursuit of development goals. At the same time, you’ll gain the technical, managerial, and strategic skills needed to turn ideas into sustainable, impactful digital initiatives.

Career opportunities

• NGOs and third-sector organisations

The teaching and research aims are suited to work in non-government and civil society organisations where you take on a range of roles from policy advisors, project managers, HR and communications staff. 

The alumni can be found at large international NGOs like Oxfam as well as in many smaller organisations. 

• Government and policy 

Graduates can be found in national governments, multilateral organisations and policy influencing positions around the world, in organisations including FCDO, the World Bank, African Union, United Nations and as civil servants around the world. 

• Private sector 

The focus on how businesses and the private sector can play a role in development enables you to gain employment in multinational organisations, private sector firms or to start your own organisations addressing some of the biggest global challenges. 

• Research and teaching 

The Master's courses provide you with a strong theoretical foundation for further study. 

Alumni find employment in research and teaching positions at universities and research institutes around the world. Top employers include: 

• African Union; 

• Oxfam; 

• Inter-American Development Bank; 

• Care; 

• Mercy Corps; 

• The British Council; 

• the World Bank; 

• the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office; 

• United Nations; 

• USAID.