International Development, MA, University of Exeter

the United Kingdom

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The award	How you will study	Study duration	Course start	Domestic course fees	International course fees
MA	Full-time	1 year	September	find out	find out

About International Development, MA - at University of Exeter

You will acquire theoretical and analytical skills to address critical challenges developing and emerging economies, including poverty, inequality, climate change, migration and displacement, health, and violence and conflict.
Learn from world-leading experts with extensive hands-on experience in development management and consulting.
Benefit from practice-oriented training that provides the skills and experience needed for a career in international development, including roles in governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Enjoy the flexibility to choose between a rigorous academic-oriented dissertation or a career-focused, consultancy-based research project.
Join our global network of research partnerships, international development and policy organisations.

Learn more about International Development, MA - at University of Exeter

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Entry requirements

We will consider applicants with a 2:2 Honours degree or above in a relevant social science* or humanities subject area, including education, the social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, arts or business/management. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and every application will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

While we normally only accept applicants who meet this criteria, if you are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level or have relevant work experience, particularly in the International Development sector, we would welcome your application.

*Accepted social science subjects include:

Anthropology
Archaeology
Area and Development Studies
Criminology
Demography
Development Studies
Economics
Economic and Social History
Education
Environmental Planning
Human Geography
International Relations
Law
Linguistics
Management and Business Studies
Media and Communication Studies
Philosophy
Politics and International Studies
Psychology
Science and Technology Studies
Social Policy
Social Statistics, Methods, and Computing
Social Work
Socio Legal Studies
Sociology

We would encourage applicants to use their personal statement to indicate their interests in International Development and any relevant work experience.

Please note, if we receive an application which we deem more suitable for one of our other programmes, we may make an offer for that alternative programme instead.

Please also see our guidance on essential documentation required for an initial decision on taught programme applications.

Entry requirements for international students

Please visit our entry requirements section for equivalencies from your country and further information on English language requirements.

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships at University of Exeter

The University of Exeter invests heavily in scholarships to support top international students. These include the Exeter Excellence Scholarships, which are awarded to academically gifted and ambitious students from around the world, as well as country-specific scholarships for students applying from certain regions.

More information on the University’s international scholarships can be found here.

To search all available scholarships, please use the University’s funding database.

Student reviews of University of Exeter

Find out what students say about University of Exeter

Ernest, from Ghana, studying MSc Sustainable Business Management

“The student support provided by the University is exceptional and most importantly the campus in Penryn is beautiful and blessed with many green spaces. My decision to study here was further solidified when I was awarded the Green Futures scholarship. This scholarship has played a major role in supporting my academic journey, by offering me stability to focus on my studies in order to achieve my goals.

“Since arriving on campus, it has been nothing but an incredible experience. I have had the opportunity to interact and work in teams with students from diverse backgrounds with a variety of goals. Academic staff are always willing to lend a helping hand when needed and the career services have been invaluable, offering great advice on job applications.”

Erica, from the Philippines, studying LLM Law

“I am currently the Vice President of the Filipino Society and I am proud that I am able to represent my background and heritage at the University. Exeter offers numerous opportunities for us to share our culture, such as the popular Spring Festival celebrations and the ASEAN Spring Ball, which I believe is incredibly important. There is a strong sense of community at Exeter and it is something I truly appreciate while being here.

“In my first year I lived on campus and shared a flat with six people. I wasn't extremely keen on the nightlife scene so I was a bit worried about what my new flatmates would be like in terms of partying/drinking. Luckily though, my accommodation was a ‘quiet flat’ and a lot of us had similar personalities, which allowed me to settle in quickly and feel more at ease. My entire block only consisted of six flats and we were all really sociable and ended up being very close, and I am still friends with a lot of them now.”

Sandeep, from India, studying MSc Data Science

“I did struggle with a few assignments at first. Once, I got completely stuck and so reached out to Dr. Phill after a lecture. He was helpful and even sent me more tips via email afterward.

“One of the biggest things that surprised me here is how different the teaching style is compared to India. Back home, it’s mostly theoretical, with classes from morning till evening and exams twice a year. Here, it’s so much more flexible. Lectures aren’t every day, and they’re more like discussions or seminars. The assignments and quizzes are more frequent and keep you on your toes, which really helps with self-learning.

“For anyone planning to come here, my advice is simple: if you’re curious and have a mindset of learning every day, Exeter is a fantastic place. Every day here feels like an opportunity to grow and challenge yourself.”