Course summary
Poverty reduction is the ultimate measure of development effectiveness. Gain the knowledge and skills to engage professionally with the design, implementation and assessment of national and international efforts to reduce poverty in this Masters in Poverty and Development. Through an interdisciplinary lens, you’ll gain a sound understanding of the main theories of development and poverty reduction in development, and a solid grounding in the concepts and skills needed to engage in debates on poverty and development. World-leaders in development studies The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) delivers world-class research, learning and teaching that transforms the knowledge, action and leadership needed for more equitable and sustainable development globally. IDS is ranked first in the world for development studies, in partnership with the University of Sussex. Who is the degree for? We welcome applicants with a broad range of career trajectories. Successful applicants will have some practical experience in development alongside an interest in critical academic enquiry. Most MA Poverty and Development students are experienced professionals, having worked in government, NGOs, bilateral and multilateral donor and lending agencies, UN programmes, the private sector, or civil society organisations. Many students join the course after a period of voluntary work or an internship.
Modules
Autumn Poverty and Inequality (core) Economic Perspectives on Development Power and Social Perspectives on Development Spring Debating Poverty and Vulnerability: Policy and Programming (core) Aid and Poverty: the Political Economy of International Development Assistance Climate Change and Development Competing in the Green Economy Development in Cities Governance of Violent Conflict and (In)security Health and Development Nutrition Poverty, Violence and Conflict Public Financial Management Reflective and Creative Practice for Social Change The Politics of Gender Theory and Practice of Impact Evaluation Unruly Politics Spring and summer Research Design (core) Summer Dissertation Poverty and Development (core)
Assessment method
You’ll be assessed through term papers, coursework assignments, presentations, exams, practical exercises, and a 10,000 word dissertation.
Entry requirements
Successful applicants will have a first or upper second-class (2.1) undergraduate honours degree in the social sciences or a related subject, and preferably one year of policy or development-related work experience. Applications must be accompanied by a CV and detailed two-page personal statement, explaining why you are applying for the degree and the relevance of your previous experience. The course is taught in English. To derive the maximum benefit from the course, participants should be proficient in English and able to take an active part in discussions. The minimum requirement is, for example, an IELTS grade of 7.0 overall and no less than 6.5 in each section of the IELTS test. For detailed information on English language requirements for international students please see the University of Sussex website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
If you study part time over two years, you’ll be charged 50% of the equivalent full-time fee in each year of study. Your second-year fee – if you continue your studies without a break – will be subject to a 3% increase (subject to rounding).
Provider information
Institute of Development Studies
University of Sussex
Library Road
Falmer
Brighton
BN1 9RE