MSc Food Security and Development

Program Overview

The MSc Food Security and Development program at the University of Reading equips students with the knowledge and skills to address global food insecurity and poverty. Through multidisciplinary coursework, students gain expertise in food systems analysis, food security interventions, and development policies. Graduates are prepared for careers in international food security, community development, and related fields. The program fosters a diverse and inclusive community with access to research opportunities, internships, and support for personal and career growth.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Food Security and Development program at the University of Reading aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address global food insecurity and poverty. The program provides a multidisciplinary understanding of food systems in developing countries and explores the drivers of food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty.

Objectives:

• Join the highest-ranking UK university for Agriculture and Forestry (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023).
• Develop knowledge of how food systems interact with human development policies at international, national, and local levels.
• Gain conceptual and practical skills for analyzing and developing food security interventions.

Outline:

Compulsory Modules:

• Theories and Practices of Development
• Research for Development
• Dissertation
• Food Security and Development

Optional Modules:

• Rethinking Agricultural Systems
• Poverty, Inequalities, and Gender in Development
• Concepts and Practices of Communication
• Global Environmental Change, Justice, and Development
• Climate Smart Agriculture
• Traditional Ecological Knowledge
• Agricultural Project Planning and Rural Development Projects

Teaching:

• Students learn from academics conducting world-class research in global development, applied economics, and marketing.
• Current research, policy, and practice examples are incorporated throughout the course.
• External seminar speakers are invited for many modules.
• A series of department and research division talks and events are organized.
• Students choose from a diverse range of modules to gain knowledge and skills for impact and global change.
• An optional placement during semester 2 is available.
• Class sizes vary by module, but emphasis is placed on good contact with lecturers.
• Learning occurs through interactive methods, seminars, lectures, tutorials, classroom participation, and field trips.
• Opportunities for research, networking, and personal development are provided.
• Study skills support tailored to master's students is offered.

Careers:

Graduates of the MSc Food Security and Development program are prepared for careers in:

• International food security
• Community development
• International development
• Roles at the intersection of food, nutrition, and agriculture

Other:

• The program is part of the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture, and Economics (GIIDAE).
• GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master's students from over 40 countries.
• GIIDAE holds diversity, equality, and high-quality teaching and learning as core values.
• GIIDAE has an active scholarship program.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students:

£10,800

New international students:

£22,350