International Development MA

Entry requirements

A 2:2 honours degree with a minimum of 55% (or equivalent international qualification), in social science, humanities or associated subject.

Months of entry

January, October

Course content

Do you have a drive to work at the forefront of global development and social change? Deepen your expertise and engage with relevant and vital perspectives on our MA International Development.

Global society is facing a web of challenges, including poverty and inequality, the climate crisis, pandemics and conflicts. To date, progress towards the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals has been slow. There’s a growing need for organisations and people who can apply solution-oriented, critically-informed thinking to bring change at local and global levels.

On this course, you’ll explore critical perspectives to major traditions, theories and frameworks while developing work-ready skills. So you’re well equipped to make a difference in a field of changing global agendas and dynamics.

Develop critical awareness through practice-based learning

This programme has a particular focus on the Global South, while recognising the interconnectedness of world development. You’ll apply critical perspectives to enhance your understanding of topics like communication and development, entrepreneurship and emerging economies, corporate social responsibility and more.

At the same time, build a sector-specific skillset spanning programme management, fieldwork and research methods, through industry-led projects and an optional international field trip. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners from organisations like UNICEF, Refugee Councils, the Commonwealth Secretariat, Community Based and Consultancy Organisations for deeper insights into current programmes and issues.

Loughborough London is part of the SHIFT innovation district and based near the UNICEF UK offices on East Bank. It’s the ideal place to network and find partners for the collaborative elements of the course.

A career focused on positive change

This master’s is ideal preparation if you have your sights set on development work with community-based groups, government and intergovernmental departments or global development agencies such as the UN. You could also apply it in multinational and national firms with corporate social responsibility agendas, consultancies, foundations, academia or think tanks.

Whatever area you want to focus on, you’ll be equipped to work as an empathetic practitioner in the movement towards social justice and social change.

Why you should choose this degree

• Develop a critical perspective to traditions, theories and frameworks of development so you’re equipped to work in an ever-changing sector.
• Gain key professional skills in programme management, fieldwork and research.
• Experience sustainable development projects first-hand on an optional international field trip.
• Learn from leading academics and experienced practitioners from organisations like UNICEF, Refugee Councils, the Commonwealth Secretariat, Community Based and Consultancy Organisations.
• Study full or part time on our vibrant campus in East London, part of the SHIFT innovation district and close to the UNICEF UK offices.
• Full immersion in each topic area through block teaching.

Fees and funding

Please see our website for further information on funding.