Who we are

Message from our Head of School

We are the School of Global Development (DEV).

For over 50 years, we have been working for a better future for all, through rigorous and ethical research, education and practice that address critical global development and sustainability challenges.

We are extremely proud to have been ranked 1^st for overall research quality, impact, environment and outputs in Development Studies (Times Higher REF Analysis 2021). 91 percent of our research was judged to be either ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.

Our range of undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD and foundation year programmes are designed to equip students with the practical skills, critical thinking, and global perspectives needed to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.

We prioritise equality, diversity and inclusion and are at the forefront of promoting ethically rigorous research and UEA’s missions to decolonise, decarbonise and disinvest from unethical business concerns.

In 2009 we were awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize, the UK’s most prestigious higher education award, in recognition of our sustained contribution to alleviating poverty and promoting environmental sustainability around the world.

In 2023, to celebrate our 50th year anniversary, we changed our name from the School of ‘International’ to ‘Global’ Development - to acknowledge the local relevance of development studies in addressing all the subjects we research and teach.

Through their research, our staff produce actionable knowledge that addresses major societal challenges including inequality, poverty, sustainability, gender equality, peace, food security and climate change. We seek to influence policy in all the fields we work.

Our staff regularly engage in consultancies, providing specialist advice to a wide range of clients.

We also serve society through effective and equitable partnerships, including with the Norwich Institute for Sustainable Development, the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, the UNESCO Chair in Adult Literacy, the University of Sanctuary and UEACivic.

Our new advisory board provides valuable external expertise and guidance to ensure our research and teaching stay aligned with industry trends. We enhance our student’s employability through placement opportunities, regular professional skills workshops and annual Development Employability Week.

Please get in touch if you want to find out more about our courses, research or consultancy activities - or follow us on our social media accounts.

You can also keep up to date with what’s happening in the School via our news and events page and our annual newsletter.

John McDonagh, Head of the School of Global Development (DEV)