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MSc
Development Studies

Location
Southwark

Duration
1 year (full-time)
2 years (part-time)

Start date
September

Number of places
Up to 40 full-time and 20 part-time

Simple timetable info
Full-time: Monday and Wednesday afternoons and evenings Part-time: Monday and Wednesday evenings

How to apply
Direct to LSBU

LSBU code
Full-time code: 1037
Part-time code: 484

Course contact
Professor John G. Taylor
taylorjb@lsbu.ac.uk – 020 7815 5769

Course units

Year 1

– Images of Development

– International Trade and Developing Countries

– Gender and Development

– Research Methods

Year 2

– Strategies for Industrialisation

– Forced Migration and Resettlement

– Human Rights

– Agrarian Policies

– Dissertation


Course description

Through the use of case studies, the course analyses a number of recurring themes including: The possibilities for different types of development within the global context, the role of international institutions and agencies, social provision in developing countries, the relations between the urban and rural sectors, sustainable development, environmental policies, social divisions and gender issues, empowerment and participation, and migration.

The MSc also develops the skills required to undertake research into development issues, focusing on appropriate methodologies, data collection, policy design and recommendations. In addition, the course enhances the effectiveness of professionals to work in the development field by providing them with the capacity for critical analysis, evaluation and policy implementation.

The units combine lectures, seminars and personal tutorials. A seminar series on contemporary development topics is held each year and PhD students give presentations on their research. Assessment involves written work and examinations, with a strong emphasis on research. Staff offer supervision and assist in formulating dissertation proposals directed to your particular interests.

Research and teaching in Development Studies draws on staff with a wide range of expertise in development policy and practice. Recent and current research includes projects funded by the World Health Organisation, the World Bank, the United Nations Children’s Fund, the United Nations Development Programme, the UK Department for International Development, and the Economic and Social Research Council.


Career opportunities

Previous students have entered careers in many fields — working for international organisations such as the United Nations and its constituent organisations, the World Bank, the International Labour Organisation and the World Health Organisation. Many take up important posts in their home countries within government, non-government and civil society organisations or non-governmental development organisations in the UK, such as Christian Aid and Oxfam, in addition to teaching posts in universities and colleges specialising in development research and practice.

Typical background of applicant

Some students have worked in the development field with governments, NGO, civil society organisations and agencies. Others wish to move into a new career. Students have received scholarships from the European Union, the Africa Educational Trust, and British Council Chevening Scholarships.

Professional contacts/industry links

The MSc has excellent relations with Development Agencies and NGO working in the development field. Students from these organisations are regularly enrolled on the course and members of these organisations gave regular presentations to MSc students.