Course summary

This MA equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the complex relationship between education, international development and social justice within global contexts. This degree will help to prepare you for careers in international development, humanitarian assistance, social work and consultancy with governments, NGOs, bilateral and multilateral organisations, research institutions and charities. Why study Education, International Development and Social Justice? Access to quality education is a fundamental human right. However, many young people around the world are unable to access it or complete the full education cycle due to social, cultural, economic and political barriers. This is particularly the case for girls, the poor and young people from rural and marginalised communities living in developing countries or societies affected by conflict. Even when education opportunities are available in these contexts, they often do not meet the needs of young people or those of their communities. At best, education that is ill-conceived is of limited value. At worst, it can promote economic stagnation, socio-economic inequality, social exclusion and conflict. The MA Education, International Development and Social Justice explores the sociology and political economy of education and learning within development, humanitarian and transnational contexts globally. In particular, you will learn about:

• the social, political, cultural and economic contexts in which young people live their lives and education and learning take place around the world

• current theories, policies, practices and approaches to education and learning within these contexts

• approaches to policy and practice regarding social and educational inclusion, educational quality, outcomes and mobility, resilience and sustainable development

• challenges faced by governmental and non-governmental organisations in relation to planning and providing quality education for all (such as poverty, gender inequality, humanitarian emergencies, modern slavery, human trafficking)

• education policy and practice with reference to particular marginalised communities (such as working children, nomads, young people who have been trafficked, former child soldiers, refugees)

• the complex relationship between education, wellbeing, employment and economic development