The MSc in Poverty, Inequality and Development will enable students to study development with a specific focus on poverty and inequality, which are both key aspects of the current development policy discourse.
On this degree, students will explore theories of development in historical context from 1945 up to the present day in a core compulsory module. The theories are then applied to contemporary development approaches and issues. Throughout, the emphasis is on students developing a critical understanding of the evolution of development theories over the last half century and its implications for present day thinking about development.
The relevance of sociological categories of class, religion, ethnicity and gender in both disaggregating levels of poverty and inequality, and in understanding the processes which foster poverty and inequality in development will be explored in one of the two modules which give this programme its particular identity and focus.
Issues examined include:
- definitions and indicators of poverty
- inequality and development
- causes of poverty and inequality
- poverty reduction strategies
- cross-cutting issues such as gender and conflict
- practical policy, programme and research skills.
Each programme is taught by a team of multi-disciplinary specialists who work closely with students to address individual interests and concerns. Every student is allocated an academic tutor to support them in their academic progress throughout the year. The department has a long history of teaching students from across the world, and recent students have come from 99 different countries and a wide variety of professional and academic backgrounds.
The International Development Department is well-regarded internationally by sponsors, donor agencies, governments and NGOs. Study with the University of Birmingham to benefit from:
- Expertise in key issues and skills valued by employers
- A vibrant, welcoming community
- Individual overseas fieldwork or study visit included in fees (on-campus programmes)
- Flexible programmes and a wide choice of modules (part-time students also welcome)
- A diverse and international student body
- Strong support in study and English language skills
