Explore and assess how international development programmes, projects and policies are managed and organised across the government, private, and NGO sectors.
Throughout this course, you’ll analyse the ways in which organisations navigate the rapidly changing landscape of international development, with a focus on how and why certain development interventions are made.
You’ll explore key debates in the theory and practice of development management to improve your understanding of the practical challenges faced by institutions and professionals when designing and implementing change. This will give you the foundation to critically analyse these challenges and design improved interventions.
You’ll also learn about the management of development projects and programmes.
This degree benefits from a mixture of teaching from Bath's Department of Social & Policy Sciences and School of Management. This will allow you to assess contemporary international development challenges holistically, taking into consideration the social and business factors that influence policy making.
Watch our webinar about MSc International Development and its pathways
Different course pathways to specialise your skills
You have the choice of taking this specialist MSc in International Development Management course or one of five other course pathways:
The selection of a specialist pathway allows you the flexibility to pursue areas that interest you and are relevant to your career aspirations.
Switching pathways
Full-time students: If you choose one of the specialist pathways, you can switch to the general MSc International Development pathway after Year 1 Semester 1. If you choose the general MSc International Development pathway, you can switch to a specialist pathway in Year 1 Semester 2 if you choose that pathway’s core Semester 1 unit. You can not switch between specialist pathways.
Part-time students: You can choose to switch between specialist pathways, or either way between a specialist pathway and the general MSc International Development pathway, at the end of Year 1.
Learn from experts in their field
You’ll learn from experts in international development, and business and management studies; as well as staff in the wider Department of Social & Policy Sciences and School of Management communities. Their passion, knowledge, experience, and research shape their teaching to enhance your learning experience.
Gain important career skills
Upon successful completion of this course, you'll leave with:
- a critical understanding of the concepts and approaches used in international development management
- the interdisciplinary research and interpersonal skills needed to navigate the changing landscape of development practice, where new actors are emerging and traditional approaches to management need adapting
- practical skills in research, analysis and communication; and an understanding of how these can be applied when working in both the ‘Global North and South’
- the ability to analyse the complex interaction of social, economic, political or environmental factors in shaping problems and proposed solutions
- a rich experience of working with people from a wide range of disciplines, cultures and professional backgrounds
Graduate prospects
This course provides an excellent background for those wishing to pursue careers in fields that aim to improve people’s lives. These include the international development, sustainability, humanitarian and peacebuilding sectors.
You will be qualified to work in a wide variety of roles, including social research, public policy, public information and campaigning.
Graduates from our suite of International Development master's courses have gone on to secure the following roles:
- Senior Program Officer, Hashoo Foundation
- Relief Support Worker, United Response
- Analyst, Start Fund Bangladesh
- Programme Assistant, The Advocacy Team
- Fundraising Assistant, Refugee Cafe
- Director of Programmes for North West Syria, Mercy Corps
- Programme Specialist, African World Heritage Fund
- Operations and Finance Officer, The Washing Machine Project
- Local Ambassador to the World Trade Organisation
Other graduates have chosen to work for themselves and set up their own charities, while others have gone on to complete doctoral studies.
'The knowledge and skills gained from the programme have profoundly impacted my approach to work. I now consider social and environmental justice aspects when designing projects, ensuring a holistic and collaborative approach.’
Mantsebeng Suzan Maepe graduated from MSc International Development, Social Justice and Sustainability In 2023.
Read more about how the course has helped her progress in her career.