Course summary
This course offers you a transformative approach to international development rooted in social justice. It examines the structures, institutions and theories which have shaped international development, the unequal global relationships which underpin it, and the social and political movements which challenge and redefine development in an era of rising global inequalities and climate crisis. It is ideal if you are planning a career in international development or with international organisations and NGOs. The compulsory modules for this interdisciplinary course introduce you to key debates that have shaped thinking about international development and social justice, and about research in development and how it is conducted. You will also choose from a range of thematic option modules, allowing you to tailor the course according to your personal or career interests. You will develop transferable skills including research skills, team-working, written and oral communication, and qualitative and quantitative data analysis. You will be taught by academics who draw on their own research to explore themes including:
- childhood and international development
- cities in the Global South
- climate justice
- development as colonialism
- gender, sexualities and development
- global health
- political economy of development
- racism and international development
- revolutions.
- We can offer you multiple approaches to the study of societies and cultures, human geography, and sustainability, poverty and development, as well as community and citizenship, at local, regional and global levels.
- We have strong links with the London International Development Centre, which can enhance your employability.
- One of our unique strengths is the breadth of research interests of our staff. Subsequently, we offer a very wide range of courses that reflect the disciplinary breadth of development and globalisation, while also allowing you to engage with other disciplines, such as anthropology and sociology.
- Ours is a vibrant research culture, powered by a shared passion for learning and intellectual engagement among our academics and students. We have a strong commitment to social justice, which informs and shapes much of our cutting-edge research.
- If you are taking this course part time, you may be eligible for a Bonnart Trust Master’s Studentship which will cover the cost of your tuition fees.
- policy researcher
- journalist
- development practitioner
- communications officer.
Modules
For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.
Assessment method
Coursework, including essays, critical surveys of relevant literature and a reflective journal.
How to apply
International applicants
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, the requirement for this course is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.
Entry requirements
A second-class honours degree (2:2) or above in social sciences or humanities. Other applicants will also be considered. Previous experience or study of development issues may be an advantage. Two references: preferably both academic references, but employer references may be considered. An entrance task may be required. Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £3690 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £3690 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £3690 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £3690 | Year 1 |
| International | £6780 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases.
Provider information
Birkbeck, University of London
Malet Street
Bloomsbury
London
WC1E 7HX
Course contact details
Visit our course pageBirkbeck Student Advice Service
0203 907 0700