MSc International Development Management

at University of Westminster

Course structure

The course is designed to give you the theory and practical tools to design, implement and deliver self-sustaining and collaborative development interventions at an international level, looking at past initiatives to gain a better understanding as to why some succeed while others fail. During the course, you will take eight core modules and one option module. If you're interested in learning a new language or developing one of your current languages, our Polylang programme offers eight major languages to choose from.
 

Semester 1

You will examine a wide range of public policy issues in the context of socioeconomic development, for example, in the areas of finance, trade, investment, human resources development, environment, sustainable development, and urban and regional development. You will also consider the role and influence of global development stakeholders and how to engage constructively and best access their regional and global expertise at various stages and levels of a development intervention, building outcomes that are inclusive and deliverable. With a focus on practical development, you will learn how to put together compelling funding proposals, a skill that will be required throughout your career.
 

Semester 2

Since we attract students from a range of different backgrounds and disciplines, such as law, accountancy, business and economics, the project enables you to develop specialist expertise in a particular aspect of international development management and focus on a subject that interests you. Conducting research and analysis, you will explore a practical development issue focused on a region (or regions) of your choice. For example, past themes included disaster risk management in the Philippines, a maternal health programme in Columbia and rural finance in Ghana.

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). Relevant degree disciplines include business studies, economics, geography, management, and operations research. However, students with qualifications in other disciplines such as engineering, environmental sciences, the humanities and languages are also encouraged to apply. Alternative professional qualifications with at least three years’ relevant professional experience will also be considered. Applicants from different academic backgrounds are welcome.
 

If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.
 

Applicants are required to submit one reference.

International tuition fee: £13,000 (Price per academic year)

The course will particularly suit those seeking to work within NGOs and the international development community (including the World Bank, IMF, central and development banks, and government economic planning directorates), as self-employed development specialists, consultants or as a trade attaché in foreign diplomatic offices. Should you wish to complete the PRINCE2® project management qualification, this will also enable you to work with multinational corporations where, alongside good technical skills, an awareness of global development issues and challenges and the ability to think critically about the world are highly valued.
 

Graduates from this programme have worked as specialist advisers with top NGOs across the globe and as advisers with trade and economic departments in government offices. Others are currently working as development consultants, microfinance specialists and as advisors on UN-sponsored projects. Some have also set up their own development charities or proceeded to PhD research and teaching.