Course summary
The world is at a turning point. In these times of uncertainty and change, this postgraduate diploma provides you with an advanced grounding in the key theories, approaches and issues that are shaping contemporary global development and the global challenges we face. Drawing on important social science ideas, it introduces a conceptual framework for making sense of development. It employs this framework to examine six major issues: migration, socio-economic security, environmental sustainability, technological innovation, the global politics of development, and the politics of doing development. You’ll also have the opportunity to deepen your knowledge and understanding of the issue or issues of most interest to you by exploring them through four cross-cutting global challenges: conflict, governance, justice, and transformation. The diploma enables you to identify and pursue your own interests in development while also enhancing your skills of critical thinking and independent learning and investigation. Key features of the course
- Explore the global context and nature of contemporary development issues.
- Gain an understanding of key concepts for critically examining development theories, approaches and issues.
- Study with cutting-edge course materials that draw on the internationally-recognised development teaching and research of our academics.
- Tailor your learning around development issues of particular interest to you.
- Build essential skills for a career in development and related areas.
Modules
There are two routes to this postgraduate diploma with a choice of modules at Stage 1. Route 1 begins with 'Understanding global development' (DD870) which critically interrogates global approaches to contemporary development and sets these in the context of the evolution of development thinking and practice. Route 2 begins with 'Global development in practice (D890)' presented on the award-winning Futurelearn platform. With an emphasis on development as practice, you'll discover, critically analyse, evaluate, and apply the key tools and techniques needed by a development manager or practitioner Both routes continue with 'Key challenges in global development' in Stage 2.
Entry requirements
We recommend that you hold a UK bachelors degree (or equivalent), or have had experience of working in a development-related agency (international or local), in either a paid or voluntary capacity, prior to starting this qualification. However, these requirements are not compulsory and you will not be required to provide any supporting documentary evidence. Your spoken and written English must be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum overall score of 6 and minimum score of 5.5 in each of the four components: reading, writing, speaking and listening under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
As fees for individual modules can vary, the total cost you pay for your qualification depends on the modules you choose to study. For further information about fees, please refer to the course description on The Open University website.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ