Applied International Development

Entry requirements

Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (high 2:2 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK. Applicants who have relevant career experience are also welcome to apply.

Evidence of prior experience in the sector may also be taken into consideration for all international development degrees.

Students may join immediately after their undergraduate degree, or after some years of employment to enhance their career prospects by acquiring further skills.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Study the theory and practice of international and community development with our MSc Applied International Development master’s degree.

Study at one of the UK’s leading universities for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 4th in the People and Planet University League, 2024/25).

This programme will develop your understanding of the theoretical frameworks needed for analysis of social change brought about by planned development interventions.

Choose MSc Applied International Development at the University of Reading

You will:

• join the highest placed UK university for Agriculture and Forestry at 20th in the world (QS World Rankings by Subject, Agriculture and Forestry, 2025), with its own farms and specialist facilities
• develop an interdisciplinary understanding of the complex factors that influence effective planned interventions for positive development outcomes – a requirement for working within the international development sector.
• explore development issues at international and community levels.
• apply the analysis of development through policy and practice.

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics, based in the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

MSc Applied International Development pathways

This degree is suitable for graduates from any discipline and allows you to design your own programme based on your personal and professional interests.

Study pathways include:

• Social Development and Agriculture
• Development Policy and Planning
• Economic Development
• Law and Development.

Information for international students

For a list of requirements by country, please visit our Country-Specific Information page.

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent)