MSc in
International Development MSc (Online Learning) The University of Edinburgh
Introduction
The MSc in International Development programme offers you an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your understanding and engagement with the most pressing challenges confronting people, communities and institutions in the Global South:
- What are the processes that have shaped poverty and inequality across the world – as well as the responses to them?
- How do they differ across international, national, and local contexts?
How will I learn?
This programme builds and strengthens critical skills for analysing these development processes and inequities, exploring development issues in a range of different social, historical and political contexts.
It is multidisciplinary in nature and it aims to provide you with a rigorous grounding in major debates, theories and critical concepts as well as proficiency in applying these to investigate contemporary development challenges, policy processes, and initiatives.
Online learning
Recognising the need for flexibility, our online programmes are an excellent way for those with professional or family commitments to gain further qualifications with minimum interruption, or to introduce students to a virtual learning environment.
Our award-winning online learning technology is fully interactive, enabling you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.
You will learn through a mix of online methods, including:
- video lectures
- study guides
- self-directed and guided reading
- a range of interactive online reflection and discussion activities
Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources but also become part of a vibrant and supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.
Rankings
The University of Edinburgh is currently ranked 15th in the World in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
Career Opportunities
With a solid background in international development study and practice, our graduates pursue current and future careers in a range of institutions including:
- United Nations agencies
- charities
- non-governmental organisations
- government ministries
- private sector
- research institutions (including further study)
- journalism
Curriculum
Programme structure
The MSc International Development is a part-time online learning programme which can be pursued over two or three years.
All courses are taught through a combination of:
- independent study
- online group activities
This will allow you to continue your life and career uninterrupted whilst returning to university study.
Core courses
There are four core courses:
- Politics and Theories of International Development
- Analysing Development
- Global Development Challenges
- Researching International Development
The first three core courses will equip you with a solid grasp of the key theories, issues, and actors of International Development, providing an optimum balance between policy and academic approaches.
In the fourth course (Researching International Development) you will acquire tools and knowledge to undertake research in the field of international development.
Option courses
You will then further your interests in specific areas of international development. Option courses change year-on-year and may be chosen from across the University, drawing on the expertise of a wide range of faculty members in other Schools.
Courses may cover issues of:
- migration and displacement
- global health
- key tools and methods for applied development
- dynamics of development in Africa
- many more topics
Research training
Research training is provided via a core course:
- Researching International Development
This introduces you to relevant research skills whilst preparing for your dissertation – be it a research or applied project.
Dissertation
In your final year, you will complete a standard research dissertation or either a placement-based project. This will be under the supervision of an academic member of staff.
Placements consist of eight weeks of on-location research with a host organisation in Africa, South and South East Asia, the Middle East, Latin America as well as in the UK.
Our extensive network of partners includes NGOs, charities, social enterprise, think-tanks and government bodies.