MSc Global Development at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

Explores the challenges people, states and corporations face in meeting demands for growth, citizenship and wellbeing in the Global South, and the actors and policies seeking better development outcomes. It draws on global development studies, international relations, politics, economic and social history, sociology and social policy, with a focus on employability skills.

Department: School of Social & Political Sciences | Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time | Intake: September | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Three core courses (Contemporary Global Challenges; Data for Development; Paying for Development: Politics and Policy in a Post-aid World) and three options such as China and the Global South, Global Development and Human Rights and Latin American Development, followed by a dissertation or independent research project.

Career pathways

Civil and diplomatic services, international organisations such as the UN and EU, NGOs, development and rights consultancies, media, think-tanks, corporate social responsibility and social enterprises.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2.1 Honours (or non-UK equivalent) in Social Sciences, Humanities, Law or Economics; Business and Health Sciences degrees may also be accepted, and 2.2 degrees sometimes. Relevant development-sector work experience is considered to support qualifications outside the standard requirements. A CV and personal statement are required. International applicants: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0 (other tests accepted, e.g. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Duolingo, at stated minimums). Application deadlines for September 2027 entry: international applicants apply in rounds, the final round closing 8 July 2027; UK applicants 24 August 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 12,063 a year (2027/28). Full-time; Home & RUK Source

International applicants: GBP 30,390 a year (2027/28). Full-time; International & EU Source

Intake: September

Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

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