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International Development (Distance Learning) at University of Portsmouth - UCAS

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2024 - 20252025 - 2026
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There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

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. You'll explore issues such as colonialism and globalisation, and tailor the course to your interests by choosing modules that focus on the sustainable development goal closest to your heart. 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. What you'll experience On this course you'll:

  • Combine sound theoretical learning and practical skills, from literature reviews to empirical research, 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 Senegal or Uganda, and network with professionals in the field taking the course with you
  • Access our virtual learning facilities which include webinars, discussion forums, one-to-one online tutorials with lecturers, and Skype meetings
  • Focus your research project on particular sustainable development goals, such as ending hunger, creating inclusive societies, promoting gender equality or building sustainable economic growth
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 the course of 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. What can you do with an International Development degree? Once you've graduated, you can pursue a career in:
  • Policy managment
  • Evaluation

Modules

Core modules currently include:

  • Applied Research Methods for Development
  • Dissertation
  • Theory and Practice of Development
Optional modules currently include:
  • Education and Development
  • Gender for Development Cooperation
  • Migration and Human Insecurity
  • Population Health and Development
Please see our website for full module information and part-time module schedule. We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies. Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.

Assessment method

How you're assessed You'll be assessed through: essays discussion forums blogs portfolios policy brief

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 requirements

TestGradeAdditional details
IELTS (Academic)English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.
Cambridge English AdvancedCambridge English: Advanced (CAE) taken after January 2015. An overall score of 176 with no component score less than 169.
Cambridge English ProficiencyCambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) taken after January 2015. An overall score of 176 with no component score less than 169.
TOEFL (iBT)91 with a minimum of 20 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 20 in Writing.
PTE AcademicAn overall score of 61 with a minimum of 54 in each skill.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

EU £9400 Year 1
International £9400 Year 1
England £9400 Year 1
Northern Ireland £9400 Year 1
Scotland £9400 Year 1
Wales £9400 Year 1
Channel Islands £9400 Year 1
Republic of Ireland £9400 Year 1

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Fees are accurate at the time of publishing and are subject to change at any time without notice. For further fee information please see the corresponding University of Portsmouth course page or visit https://www.port.ac.uk/study/masters-and-postgraduate-taught/fees-and-funding
International Development (Distance Learning) at University of Portsmouth - UCAS