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International Development Courses

BSc International Development with Environment and Society (L2F7)

  • Course Code UNU1L2F7302
  • Attendance Full Time
  • Award Degree of Bachelor of Science
  • Overview
  • Why Choose Us
  • Requirements
  • Course Profile
  • Fees and Funding
  • Apply
Overview
BSc International Development with Environment and SocietyThe BSc International Development with Environment and Society degree is for students primarily interested in understanding the inter-relationships between natural resources, environment and humans. 

Development can be defined as positive change and the School of International Development applies social and natural sciences to study of processes of change in developing countries. The foundation of the School is its commitment to social development, more sustainable use of the environment and natural resources and a more equitable distribution of access to resources, services, opportunities, human rights and other elements that collectively determine the well-being of individuals and communities.

Uniquely in the UK, this programme integrates social and natural science perspectives in a broad interdisciplinary approach to studying development issues. This is consistent with analysing and trying to understand the world in a plurality of ways. At the core of the BSc programme is an exploration and analysis of the key themes in environmental and natural resource management that facilitate our understanding of change and the requirements for sustainable resource management. The programme aims to produce graduates equipped to enter employment and work effectively in Development, particularly in the area of natural resource management and environment sustainability where ‘people’ are recognised to be the core determining factor in how resources are utilised. The degree also provides graduates with a strong portfolio of transferable key skills that allow them to seek employment in a large number of different areas.


Teaching, Assessment and Feedback

Our degree programmes maximise the range of modules available to students with flexibility being a key element of the modular undergraduate teaching structure. With the subject of International Development tending to be relatively new to the majority of our students, the first semester is designed to provide general background information through the module Introduction to Development Studies which follows historical and contemporary themes linked to global change: environmental, political, social and economic. Please click to access the three-year course outline for the BA International Development with Environment and Society degree.

Designed to inspire as well as to educate, we aim to enhance and inform your interest in development studies by providing skills, knowledge, understanding and practical experience. Teaching methods incorporate lectures, seminars, and e-learning sessions and student participation is actively encouraged through the use of discussion, debate, video, role-playing and problem-solving techniques. Assessment takes place throughout the period of study, with the majority of modules being assessed by a combination of course/project work, group assignments, seminar presentations and examination. 

Your independent research skills will be developed throughout your degree, culminating in a final year project (Dissertation). All students are assigned an academic adviser to oversee their progress and to guide them through their wide range of module choices.


Career Opportunities

Many opportunities now exist in the broad field of international development. Large numbers of governments and organisations are creating positions, budgets and policies designed to address many pressing issues (for example: effecting climate change policy; mitigating infectious diseases; delivering child education; building appropriate infrastructure; achieving sustainable agriculture and food security; managing conflict over resources). These require remarkable individuals with remarkable skills. 

A graduate of International Development is a rare but valued individual due to the many skills acquired through the degree that enable students to analyse, understand and explain diverse points of view; appreciate the complex dimensions of development problems; respect differences of opinion; and apply logic and objectivity in different situations. Many of our graduates are working with large Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), including Oxfam, Action Aid, Save the Children Fund, World Wildlife Fund, Water Aid, Global Vision and Concern. Others decide to work for local or national government in the UK or overseas in a range of roles concerned with social and community care, economic development or urban regeneration, human rights and advocacy, environmental conservation, forestry and water resources. Our degrees can also be used as a qualification to enter journalism, management or teaching and a recent careers analysis of our International Development Undergraduates reflects this diversity, with alumni taking up a variety of posts. For example: 

  • Desk officer for DFID in the UK or overseas;
  • Adviser in a think tank in London on social and economic issues;
  • Community support officer in Wales, Kyrgyzstan or Nepal;
  • Progress to study for a PhD;
  • Researcher for senior academic or politician;
  • Lecturer or school teacher;
  • Scientist for an NGO such as WWF;
  • Policy team for Education in an NGO such as Oxfam;
  • Internship or overseas opportunities with ODI;
  • Administrative officer for a development consultancy company leading to work overseas and career progression.

The School of International Development also works very closely with the University Careers Centre which, together with the School's Academic Careers Adviser, will help students to seek out various opportunities towards supporting their career development. Please click to view the career profiles of some of our recent graduates.


Course Organiser
Dr John Mcdonagh    
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