Explore global poverty solutions with our MSc in International Development. Combine theoretical and practical teaching, gain critical insights, and receive personalised support from expert faculty in a supportive and diverse academic community.
Position yourself to drive positive, sustainable change and make a significant impact on global poverty reduction, advancing your career and shaping the future.
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis for Home students.
Students will study one 20-credit core module focused on development theories, their historical and contemporary applications in economic, social, and political contexts as well as case studies. The remaining 100 credits are chosen from our list of International Development optional modules. Examinations will take place throughout the term as courseworks, written exams and/or presentations.
Combine theory and practical skills to address global poverty with our MSc International Development. Tailor your learning with diverse optional modules and receive dedicated support from experienced multi-disciplinary specialists and gain practical experience through overseas fieldwork opportunities. Benefit from our esteemed global reputation and diverse student body from all backgrounds, resulting in fostering a range of perspectives. Develop essential skills for careers in government, NGOs, and more, within an inclusive academic setting that promotes collaboration and networking.
International Development Department in the UK for research which impacts on society (REF 2021)
Teaching will utilise a range of learning methods, including short lectures, problem solving, role play and group work.
The programme is composed of one 20-credit core modules completed by 100 credits to choose across a range of optional International Development modules. To complete this and graduate with the 180 credits that will award you the MSc, you will have to undertake a 60-credit dissertation.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
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Year: 1 The following must be taken:
Choose 100 credits of optional modules. At least 40 credits must be selected from IDD optional modules. Up to 40 credits can be selected from College of Social Sciences or other University M level modules, subject to availability, timetabling constraints and the approval of the Programme Director and relevant module convenors.
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To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
Or Lower 2:1 Honours degree with excellent work experience
Standard Entry Requirements:
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Full-time
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
Application Fee
For international applicants this programme is subject to a £50 non-refundable application fee. At the end of the application form, before you can submit it to us, you will be required to pay, or indicate how you will pay the required fee in order for us to process your application. Please complete and submit your application before paying your application fee.
Personal Statement
Entry to this programme is highly competitive and as a result your application and personal statement will be closely scrutinised by our Admissions Tutors. Please ensure that you spend some time familiarising yourself with the programme modules and outcomes. Personal Statements should be relevant to the programme and how you believe it will enable you to achieve your career goals.
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Our MSc in International Development will equip you to tackle global poverty with a deep understanding of development theories and practical approaches. Whether you aim for roles in international organisations, government, NGOs, or consultancy, our programme offers flexibility and expert support to tailor your studies. Benefit from hands-on fieldwork experiences, a diverse academic community, and comprehensive skills in critical analysis, governance, and effective communication—essential for shaping the future of policies and initiatives worldwide.
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
