MSc International Development

Program Overview

The MSc International Development (Online) from SOAS University of London provides a solid interdisciplinary foundation in development studies, emphasizing climate crisis and its impact on inequality and change. Delivered online, the program equips students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness for careers in development-related fields. Graduates are highly sought after for their interdisciplinary knowledge, research abilities, and strong communication skills.

Program Outline

It welcomes both professionals and students without prior experience who demonstrate a strong interest and understanding of development issues. The program offers a solid interdisciplinary foundation in the political economy and sociology of development while enabling students to develop independent and critical analysis skills.

Objectives:

• Equip students with a deep understanding of the complex dynamics of international development.
• Develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness.
• Offer a rigorous interdisciplinary approach, combining political-economy, politics, anthropology, and history.
• Provide a solid foundation for further research or a career in development-related fields.

Program Description:

The program emphasizes the role of climate crisis and its interaction with inequality and change. It draws on expertise across various areas, including sustainability, climate change, migration, conflict, humanitarian action, labor, and aid.

Outline:

Structure:

• Duration: 2 years (maximum 3 years)
• Delivery mode: Online (part-time)
• Credits: 180
• Components:
• Core modules:
• The Political Economy and Sociology of Development
• Elective modules:
• Students choose a minimum of one from Group A, and a maximum of one from Open Options.
• Group A:
• Understanding Violence, Conflict and Development
• Critical Insights in Forced Migration
• Humanitarian Principles and Practice
• The Politics of Gender and Feminisms in Development
• Group B:
• Urban Sustainability
• Food Security and Social Protection
• Understanding Sustainable Development
• Climate Change and Development
• Dissertation:
• 60 credits
• Research proposal submitted in Stage 2
• Final dissertation of 10,000 words submitted at the end of Stage 4

Course Schedule:

• Two study sessions per year (October-February and April-August)
• Each subject module lasts 16 weeks, followed by a dissertation mini-module lasting 8 weeks.

Assessment:

• Each module is assessed through coursework via online written assessments ("e-tivities").
• E-tivities provide formative and summative feedback to monitor student progress and support improvement.
• Dissertation assessed by research proposal submission and final dissertation.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The program is delivered 100% online through the Virtual Learning Environment (BLE).
• BLE provides access to learning materials and resources anytime.
• Seminars and tutorials are scheduled to fit student schedules and time zones.

Faculty:

• The program benefits from a team of diverse faculty specializing in various development-related fields.
• The faculty create an intellectually stimulating and challenging learning environment.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a strong interdisciplinary approach, drawing on various social sciences perspectives.
• The focus on transferable analytical skills equips students for diverse career paths.
• The dedicated Associate Tutor provides support throughout the program.
• The emphasis on climate crisis and its interaction with development processes distinguishes this program.

Careers:

Career Paths:

• Graduates are equipped for careers in development-related fields, including:
• International organizations
• Government agencies
• Non-governmental organizations
• Research and academia
• Journalism and media
• Private sector organizations engaged in development-related work

Opportunities:

• The program prepares graduates for a wide range of opportunities, including:
• Policy analysis and research
• Project management
• Advocacy and campaigning
• Community development
• Humanitarian work
• Teaching and training

Outcomes:

• Graduates are highly sought after for their:
• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Interdisciplinary knowledge
• Research and writing abilities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Other:

• The program is ranked among the top in the world for Development Studies.
• The online delivery mode provides flexibility for professionals and students with other commitments.
• The program offers a pre-entry reading list for students to engage with introductory material.
• The program emphasizes a student-centered approach, providing support and guidance throughout the learning journey.

Summary:

The MSc International Development (Online) at SOAS offers a comprehensive and flexible learning experience for those seeking to make a positive impact in the field of international development.

MA/MSc: £12,000 PGDip/PGCert: available as exit awards.