International Development MSc

at Northumbria University

This course examines a wide range of subjects such as conflict and security, civil society and non-government organisations (NGOs), the impacts of rising economic powers, gender, the environment and resource conflicts, advocacy and citizenship.

On graduation you will be able to understand and critically engage with key development theories, tools and techniques, including participatory methodologies, rights-based approaches and monitoring and evaluation strategies.

This course is delivered via interactive workshops, involving a mixture of small group discussion, lectures, and seminar activities, which are further supported by networking and placement opportunities.

The assessment methods utilised on this course have been specifically developed to prepare you for employment, and incorporate the writing of funding bids, policy briefs, and academic poster presentations. Traditional essays and a dissertation also form part of the assessment process.

If you choose to do a placement, you will have the opportunity to develop your own real-world research project together with a development organisation.

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one

• EF0126 -Academic Language Skills in FADSS Level 7 (Optional,0 Credits)
• KE7038 -Development Research, Management and Practice (Core,30 Credits)
• KE7039 -Critical Development Thinking (Core,30 Credits)
• KE7040 -Contemporary Development Challenges (Core,30 Credits)
• KE7041 -International Development Study Visit (Optional,30 Credits)
• KE7042 -Geopolitics of Development (Optional,30 Credits)
• KE7043 -International Development Postgraduate Dissertation (Core,60 Credits)

Entry Requirements 2022/23

Standard Entry

Applicants should normally have:

A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in any subject. Applicants with appropriate work experience and/or a relevant professional qualification will be considered.

International qualifications:

If you have studied a non UK qualification, you can see how your qualifications compare to the standard entry criteria, by selecting the country that you received the qualification in, from our country pages. 

English language requirements:

International applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

Fees and Funding 2022/23 Entry

Full UK Fee: £7,950

Full EU Fee: £16,500

Full International Fee: £16,500

This course has been designed to enhance your employability in international development practice, and you’ll be offered bespoke career support. 

Throughout your studies you will engage in real-world research and problem-solving, developing the practical skills required for a successful career in this sector. You’ll have the option to base your dissertation on field work, providing you with industry contacts and valuable experience of international development in a real-world environment.

Our graduates are able to work in a broad range organisations such as charities and third sector organisations, UK and international government agencies, NGOs and international organisations. They may also wish to pursue careers in research, consultancy or to launch their own NGO. Continuing on to doctoral study and a career in academia is also an option.

Former graduates have gone on to work for national and international organisations including Barnardo’s, Leprosy Mission, International Service, UTSAAH Initiative, the Barzani Charity Foundation, or they have set up their own NGOs, while others have taken up PhD studies.