Taught course

International Development (Distance Learning)

Institution
University of Portsmouth · School of Area Studies, Sociology, History, Politics and Literature
Qualifications
MSc

Entry requirements

A minimum of a second-class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject. Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will be considered.

English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

Overview

Keep working toward a better world, and creating a vision of what a fairer, interconnected global community could be, with this interdisciplinary Master's in International Development.

You'll shape your existing passion and knowledge of the sector into the practical tools, strategies and techniques needed by organisations working in international development.
As well as exploring issues including colonialism and globalisation, you'll tailor the course to your interests by choosing topics that focus on the sustainable development goals closest to your heart - such as education, economics, migration and human insecurity, population health or transitional justice.
You'll be following a wholly-online distance learning programme, designed to give you control over the pace of your learning. All materials are available on demand as you study with us, with seminars organised around your availability rather than a rigid timetable.
You'll also be on a course that's popular with professionals in the field, so whether you're already working in international development or looking for a first role in the sector, you'll be in a position to build your network with fellow practitioners.

Course highlights
    • Combine sound theoretical learning and practical skills, from literature reviews to empirical research and quantitative data analysis, in a Master's focused on building a fairer world
    • Control your own study on a programme designed around distance learning, with your whole course available on-demand from day one
    • Engage with fellow students and practitioners through virtual learning tools, such as webinars and forums, and connect with expert lecturers in online video sessions
    • Take up placement opportunities to work with NGOs in countries such as Japan or Uganda, and network with professionals in the field taking the course with you
    • Focus your research project on particular sustainable development goals, such as ending hunger, promoting better health, creating inclusive societies, promoting gender equality or building sustainable economic growth

Career planning

During your course you'll have expert career support from your tutors and from our Careers and Employability Centre, which you can access for 5 years after you graduate.

Career support

You'll benefit from:

  • Networking events
  • 1-to-1 appointments
  • CV and cover letter advice
  • Interview preparation and practice
  • Workshops to enhance your employability skills
  • Recruitment events including the Student and Graduate Opportunities Fair
  • Support starting your own business

Careers and opportunities
You'll be enhancing your skills for roles in international development, whether that means working with a charitable organisation, NGO or, increasingly, a private sector partner in the field. As a graduate of this Master's, you'll be able to demonstrate your skills and commitment to the demanding employers in this competitive strand of international charity work.
You'll have built professional networks and the ability to identify career opportunities during your studies. Your lecturers, career advisors and peers can all offer advice and guidance about entering or progressing in your international development career.
You'll also be well placed for doctoral research in the field.
Graduates of this course have taken on roles such as:
  • Policy manager
  • Evaluation officer

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    full time
    12 months
    • Online learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    24 months
    • Online learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Admissions Team
Email
admissions@port.ac.uk
Phone
023 9284 5566