BA International Development with Economics with a Placement Year

Key details

BA INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH ECONOMICS WITH A PLACEMENT YEAR

Start Year

2022

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Arts

UCAS course code

LL2P

Entry Requirements

ABB

There are incredible differences between outcomes in rich and poor countries. Being born in one of the richest nations can increase your life expectancy by up to 30 years and your earning potential up to 100 times compared to someone born in one of the poorest.

On this degree you’ll learn to contribute effectively to development policy and practice, particularly where economics is the dominant specialty. You’ll explore how these inequalities arise, as well as discovering the policies and processes that can reduce them.

By choosing the School of International Development, you’ll learn in an interdisciplinary environment. You’ll be exposed to perspectives from subjects like anthropology, politics, geography and natural resources. Guided by lecturers with first-hand experience, you will gain deeper and more rounded understanding of contemporary global trends.

About

On this course you’ll examine international development while establishing strong foundations in micro and macro economics. You’ll acquire the ability to think like an economist about important world issues, using data and becoming familiar with models of how the world works. You’ll study microeconomics and macroeconomics. You’ll also explore definitions of economic development, and investigate the relationship between poverty, economic development and trade theories, exclusion and deprivation.

You’ll address economic and broader socio-political processes. You'll explore the relationship between economy and the environment in different world regions, examining globalisation and its effects.

Our BA International Development with Economics with a Placement Year is ranked 8th for Economics by 'The Guardian 2021', and in the top 30 for Geography and Environmental Science by 'The Complete University Guide 2022'.

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Message from the Course Director

Hello, let me welcome you and introduce you to our BA in International Development with Economics! By studying with us you will become knowledgeable in all aspects of development economics (micro, macro and behavioural) and gain an in-depth understanding of the economic issues affecting the developing world.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

Your progress will be assessed across a combination of coursework and exams. Coursework gives you the ability to explore ideas that interest you and demonstrate a depth of understanding of an issue. Exams allow you to show how much you understand of a broader subject area. Your dissertation has twice the weight of a standard module. This element of the course allows you to develop and demonstrate your skills in interdisciplinary analysis in an extended study on a topic of your choice.

Structure

You’ll discover the key topics in international development from a range of perspectives. This overview will provide a taste of different disciplines, allowing you to make an informed choice about where you want to specialise during your degree and career. You’ll also learn basic data analysis skills, and discover how to think systematically about important macroeconomics and microeconomics questions. In addition, you’ll be able to choose optional modules to tailor the course to your own interests.

Teaching and Learning

You’ll learn through a combination of lectures and seminars, where you’ll critically engage with the ideas discussed.

You’ll spend time reading academic papers that influence policy and academic debates. This will help you understand the different viewpoints on issues and the strength of relevant evidence. Much of this study is informed by questions, which you’ll answer in seminars discussions, in your own essays, and through doing your own research. Through this process, and the feedback you’ll receive, you’ll develop your critical skills, including the ability to construct convincing arguments and weigh evidence.

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Open Days

Assessment for Year 2

Beginners' Language Modules

You can select from a wide range of language modules. For more information, and for a full list of available module options, please visit our Language Options page.

Structure

In your second year, you’ll go into much more depth, with specific modules dedicated to microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. You’ll study these topics in the context of development, with examples, trends and evidence taken from around the world. You’ll also have flexibility to deepen your understanding of one or two other disciplines through your optional modules. You can choose from specialist modules as well as ‘area modules’ where you will consider contemporary issues within specific regions of the world. These will allow you to discover connections between different disciplinary approaches.

Teaching and Learning

You’ll learn from leading development economists, with firsthand experience of a variety of developing countries. Throughout your time at UEA you’ll benefit from their range of experience, gained from years of research, consultancy, and policy advice. You’ll learn through a combination of lectures and seminars, where you’ll critically engage with the ideas discussed.

In Quantitative Methods for Development you’ll explore the use of specialist statistical software through a series of computer workshops. You’ll then produce your own original data analysis research. You’ll spend time reading academic papers that influence policy and academic debates. This will help you understand the different viewpoints on issues and the strength of relevant evidence. Much of this study is informed by questions, which you’ll answer in seminars discussions, in your own essays, and through doing your own research. Through this process, and the feedback you’ll receive, you’ll develop your critical skills, including the ability to construct convincing arguments and weigh evidence.

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Open Days

Assessment for Year 4

Beginners' Language Modules

You can select from a wide range of language modules. For more information, and for a full list of available module options, please visit our Language Options page.

Structure

The final year is a time to explore intellectually an area of you own choosing in the dissertation module. You’ll receive help, supervision and guidance from one of our academics as you apply your skills to a question that interests you. Your economic skills will be further enhanced in the module Globalisation and Economic Development module. Other optional modules will expand your understanding of topics such as civil war and public policy.

Teaching and Learning

Admissions Live Chat

Open Days

Assessment for Year 1

Compulsory Modules

INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMICS OF DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-4003B

Credits 20

The module introduces you to key development economics theories and empirical evidence. Topics include the economics of poverty and inequality, economic growth, the balance between states and markets, agriculture and internal migration, population growth, health, human capital, the environment, international trade, and development aid. All of these are discussed within the context of development.

INTRODUCTION TO DEVELOPMENT STUDIES

Code DEV-4001A

Credits 40

This module provides an introduction to International Development Studies. Themes of poverty, inequality, culture, economic growth and sustainability are explored from the perspectives of development economics, social development, human geography and environment and natural resource management. A range of contemporary development issues are examined including globalisation, environmental degradation, gender, the state, aid, property rights, knowledge and progress.

EVIDENCE IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND GEOGRAPHY

Code DEV-4002A

Credits 20

The Evidence in International Development and Geography (EIDG) module is closely linked to the DEV-4001A Introduction to Development Studies (IDS) module. This module focuses on the role of evidence in understanding the themes introduced in IDS, with the following aims: - to provide a basic introduction to quantitative and qualitative research methods; - to introduce key concepts in maths and statistics relevant to the study of international development and human geography; - to provide training in use of important software used in the analysis of evidence; and - to provide a foundation in the key academic skills expected at university including writing, reading and thinking critically, using UEA Library services and computing systems and developing effective teamwork skills. Learning by doing is the central teaching approach and throughout the semester you will apply ideas from classes to address a research question of your choice. There are few conventional lectures; most sessions are interactive workshops, complemented by IT lab sessions.

Optional A Modules

(40 credits)

INTRODUCTION TO NATURAL RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT: PRINCIPLES AND CONCEPTS

Code DEV-4004B

Credits 20

This module explores the biological and physical basis for primary production within the main natural resource systems providing food, fuel and fibre to human populations. The module has an integrated biophysical core and deals with resource demand, supply and exploitation issues. There will be a particular emphasis on the important processes in production and a number of key issues in natural resource systems will be introduced here e.g. global resource cycles, diversity, productivity and stability of natural resource systems. There is an important field-based, practical element throughout this course.

INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN GEOGRAPHY

Code DEV-4007B

Credits 20

This module introduces geographical approaches to the key processes of change that shape our world and its societies. You will examine how people and places are connected and transformed as a result of processes such as colonialism, globalisation, industrialisation, migration, urbanisation and development, and explore how differences and inequalities emerge. A central theme will be why space matters, as people’s lives are influenced by the places that surround them - both near and far - and as they in turn change those places. You will explore these issues through a range of contemporary geographical topics, from sweatshops to climate change, through which you will be introduced to core geographical concepts, ideas and approaches, emphasising on critical thinking and practice. You will discover key methods for geographical research, including Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and will include field-based practical work in the local area.

HUMANITARIAN COMMUNICATION

Code DEV-4008B

Credits 20

This module will critically explore changing trends in humanitarian communication by both the international news media and international development actors, such as Non-Governmental Organisations. This will include a critical review of media representations of development in the Global South and the role and responsibility of journalists reporting about humanitarian crises and poverty. We will also explore conventional strategies of humanitarian communication, such as ‘pornography of poverty’, as well as more contemporary issues such as the role of celebrities, social media and the rise of ‘post-humanitarian’ communication. With case studies ranging from Live Aid to Kony 2012, you will be introduced to key concepts and theoretical approaches cutting across a range of disciplines. This module also contains an integral practical skills component. Speakers from leading NGOs and experienced practitioners will share their insights about the everyday complexities of humanitarian communication and a number of workshops will focus on a relevant hands-on skills such blogging and the basics of development photography.

INTRODUCTION TO THE POLITICS OF DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-4009B

Credits 20

This module provides an introduction to political concepts and frameworks that are central to the study of international development. Through studying theoretical approaches you will gain the foundations required to critically evaluate contemporary development debates and development policy and practice.

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Open Days

Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.

Assessment for Year 2

Beginners' Language Modules

You can select from a wide range of language modules. For more information, and for a full list of available module options, please visit our Language Options page.

Compulsory Modules

QUANTITATIVE EVIDENCE IN DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5002A

Credits 20

Throughout the study of International Development as in all areas of the social and natural sciences, it is important to weigh our theoretical ideas and policy recommendations against the available evidence. This module deals with the use of quantitative evidence. The aim is to enable students to understand quantitative analysis encountered in other modules, to become critical readers of published quantitative data analysis and to manage, analyse and interpret quantitative evidence themselves. The module deals with research design, a review of descriptive statistics and a number of inferential methods. Techniques taught include simple tests for group differences such as the t-test, analysis of variance and multiple regression.

ECONOMICS FOR DEVELOPMENT 2: Microeconomics

Code DEV-5016A

Credits 20

You’ll be introduced to the basic concepts of microeconomics and its application to development problems. Microeconomic theories of consumption, production, externalities, public goods, common property resources, market structures, land and labour markets and households are covered with an emphasis on issues relevant to developing countries. In addition to conventional microeconomic principles, insights from behavioural and institutional economics on development problems are also covered.

ECONOMICS FOR DEVELOPMENT 3: Macroeconomics

Code DEV-5017B

Credits 20

The module will introduce you to the main macroeconomic issues of development. You will cover long-run macroeconomics, with a particular focus on economic growth, and short-run macroeconomics, including fiscal, monetary and exchange rate policy. The module combines theory and evidence, relating theoretical arguments to recent macroeconomic phenomena. You will look at specific topics including the government budget and fiscal policy, inflation and monetary policy, trade and the balance of payments, exchange rates and capital flows, and the relationships between gender, institutions, and capital (physical, human and natural) and economic growth.

Optional A Modules

(40-60 credits)

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5001A

Credits 20

This interdisciplinary module will begin by exploring the various approaches to understanding gender and development, then introduces and explains a range of key concepts as the foundations of gender analyses. The module then applies these concepts in examining a selection of important relevant debates: gender analysis of economic growth, divisions of labour and incomes, land and property rights, environmental change, education and health policies, voice and empowerment, violence and religion.

EDUCATION AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5003A

Credits 20

This module provides you with an understanding of key theories and current debates linking education to development and relating these to international and national education strategies, policies and educational practices. The module will begin by introducing you to some key policy themes in education and international development, and some established theories such as human capital, human development and capabilities, and theory on education as social reproduction. The module then goes into more depth with thematic content on themes such as early childhood development, conflict, gender and difference.

SOCIAL ANTHROPOLOGY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5004A

Credits 20

On this module you’ll learn the concepts and debates that are fundamental to social anthropology, and their relationships with development and change. The teaching methods on this module include formal lectures, guided discussions of key readings, small-group seminars, and ethnographic films. Topics you’ll cover include economic anthropology, ecological anthropology, personhood, embodiment, the anthropology of talk, identity and gender, cultural rights, technical change and the anthropology of development.

LATIN AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5005B

Credits 20

This is a regional studies module which covers economic, social and political aspects of development in Latin America. It situates the region in its historical and international context, and gives an overview of major development debates in the region. The module also includes country case studies of contrasting development strategies.

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5006B

Credits 20

Sub-Saharan Africa Development aims to provide students with a historical, political, social and economic analysis of key issues relating to development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Students will develop a historically grounded understanding of political, social and economic change in Sub-Saharan Africa through a critical engagement with a range of scholarship from political science, sociology, anthropology, education and economics. Through an exploration of issues such as colonialism and the post-colonial experience, the state in Africa, reasons for Africa’s poor economic performance and aid effectiveness, conflict and ethnicity, migration and urban development students will develop understandings of the dynamics and agendas of change.

SOUTH ASIAN DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5007B

Credits 20

This module begins with an overview of the region's history before analysing recent and contemporary social, political and economic development processes. Topics include economic growth, social difference, democracy, land and food security, the environment, health and education. The module draws heavily on India, but also considers Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in relation to the various topics.

GEOGRAPHIES OF DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5010B

Credits 20

What is uneven development and why should we care about it? How did uneven development emerge, and what can we do about it? This module focuses on how geographers have engaged with these questions from different perspectives, including economic, environmental and social. You will explore how economic geographers (and geographical economists) have sought to explain the spatiality and unevenness of economic activity, including examining the evidence for ‘natural advantage’. You will engage with geographical work on urban restructuring and environmental governance which have seen uneven development as a product of capitalism, and consider the influence of Marxist theory on geographical thought. You will also consider how both ordinary people and civil society have tried to address, contest and resist spatial difference and uneven development. Questions of scale emerge in various forms through the module, which demonstrates how understanding ‘uneven development’ is a fundamentally geographical endeavour by exploring some of the key geographies of development.

NATURAL RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT 2

Code DEV-5012A

Credits 20

This module builds on the key issues and themes introduced in Introduction To Natural Resources And Development, i.e. diversity, productivity, sustainability, variability and stability, change and degradation etc. It broadly addresses the major challenges encountered when trying to achieve sustainable management of natural resources. It aims to give students a working understanding of scientific principles behind natural processes, as well as how these relate to broader contexts in development. The module also develops students' understanding of and experience in using a range of quantitative tools and approaches for measuring and describing natural resources.

NATURAL RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT 3

Code DEV-5013B

Credits 20

In this module, you will focus on the governance of natural resources in the global South. In particular you will investigate some important and contested environment and development issues involving biodiversity conservation, agricultural technology, fisheries and fire. These contests will include problems of human-wildlife conflict arising from protected areas, conflicts over genetically modified crops and debates about how to achieve food security, and different views of the use of fire to manage lands. By focusing on these contested areas of policy and practice, you will gain insight into the challenges facing governance in the real world. Understanding of these challenges is supported by using different frameworks for analysing the underlying contexts, including an ecosystem services approach, political ecology and environmental justice

METHODS IN HUMAN GEOGRAPHY

Code DEV-5014A

Credits 20

This module will introduce students to the theory and practice of research methods in human geography. It will provide a preparation for undertaking research within and beyond the university context i.e. both for the Dissertation and Field course modules and equipping students with key employability attributes for professional careers. In doing so, the module will introduce students to a range of qualitative, quantitative and spatial methods that human geographers use in research including research design, data collection and data analysis skills that are transferable to the workplace. The module will be taught using lecture-based classes and computer labs. The module is organised based on three research methods that use different approaches to data collection, analysis and presentation. The quantitative method focuses on building statistical skills to analyses secondary survey data as well as interpreting quantitative research findings. The GIS method focuses on data visualisation skills, mapping skills and basic GIS analysis. The qualitative method focuses on analysing and presenting qualitative data.

COMMUNICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5015A

Credits 20

What role can media and communications play within development? How can media – both ‘old’ and ‘new’ - help mobilise citizens, change policy, modify behaviours and promote democracy, good governance and economic growth? You will address these and other questions by providing a critical introduction to the field of ‘Communication for Development’ (C4D). Key topics will include behaviour change communication, participatory communication, press freedom, media literacy, media and conflict and access to new communication technologies. This module is accessible to International Development students who have not studied media before and to students on degrees relevant to media, with no previous experience of studying international development.

GLOBAL HEALTH AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5017A

Credits 20

The module is about the social determinants of health / ill-health. It is an inter-disciplinary module which examines the relationships between the social environment in different places and people’s health (or more usually ill-health). It draws on theories and evidence from mainly social science disciplines such as geography, sociology, anthropology and development studies, and also public health, demography and epidemiology. Health and ill-health are a significant part of the human experience, at individual, community and societal levels. Health is also a very important outcome and indicator of numerous social development processes. Moreover, health is not just a product of community or international development processes, it is an important input and asset for development, for people’s livelihoods, work and wellbeing. Ill-health and health inequalities are linked to socio-economic inequalities, poverty and marginalisation. So a key conceptual framework for this module is the social determinants of health (SDH). This include analysis of the risk environment for ill-health, influenced by the social relations (such as gender) in a particular setting, economic relations (such as class), how people make a living (their livelihoods), environmental change and the nature of health policy and the health services available to people. We are therefore also interested in the interventions which can help deal with risk environments, to make people less susceptible to disease and less vulnerable when they become ill.

POLITICS AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2: RESEARCH METHODS AND TOOLS

Code DEV-5018A

Credits 20

This module introduces you to the fundamentals of research design in the social sciences, emphasising the ways in which assumptions, paradigms, and objectives affect methodological choices, and reflecting on the differences and commonalities between qualitative and quantitative approaches. Over the course of the semester these methodological considerations are applied to central themes in contemporary politics and development. You will have the opportunity to design your own political research project based upon your individual interests, and to apply the methodological issues addressed. The module thus enhances your understanding of contemporary political challenges, as well as introducing you to the basic principles of social science research.

POLITICS, DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIETY

Code DEV-5019B

Credits 20

This module critically analyses the role of key development actors, and the contexts that they work within. It emphasises how actual interventions play out in society - where they become concrete and have real effects. What changes because of these interventions, and what stays the same, and why? What are the actors’ intentions, who shaped them, and why are outcomes often unintended and contradictory? The module considers a range of actors from social movements to international organisations. It exposes students to the complexities of policy implementation and social change, and provides a strong grounding in understanding the politics of development policy. Although open to all students it is useful if you have taken Introduction to the Politics of Development (DEV-4009B). If you have not you may have to do some additional work in the opening weeks of the semester in order to familiarise yourselves with key concepts. Lecturers will assist you in doing so.

DEV FIELD COURSE

Code DEV-5024B

Credits 20

DEV FIELD COURSE

Optional B Modules

(0-20 credits)

THE ECONOMICS OF SOCIETY

Code ECO-4002A

Credits 20

This module emphasises the application of economics to real-world dilemmas. It focuses on how applied economics can be used to study ‘wicked problems’. Such problems, sometimes referred to as ‘social messes’, are often highly confrontational: How can we control problems of crime? Why do societies suffer significant complications arising from drug addiction? How can we reduce deaths from terrorism and war? Exploring the value of the economic approach in transforming policy recommendations, you’ll consider how economics can play a crucial part in such debates.

THE EUROPEAN ECONOMY

Code ECO-5006B

Credits 20

Have you been wondering about how the European Union is dealing with the euro crisis, Brexit or refugee flows? This module will provide you with the analytical tools to explore these challenges within the framework of European economic integration. You’ll learn why economic integration has been pursued around the world and how it could be reversed through the introduction of barriers to trade or factor mobility. The challenges of integration will be explored through individual and group research and presentations. You’ll develop your debating and argumentation skills in Q&A sessions, and encouraged to extend communication on the topic through online tools and networking. A reflection on your team work and interaction in the module will complement your understanding of underlying theories of economic integration. You’ll ultimately gain a critical appreciation of the challenges lying ahead in European economies and be able to communicate these to both economists and a wider audience.

HISTORY OF ECONOMIC THOUGHT

Code ECO-5009B

Credits 20

In the aftermath of the recent financial crisis and the Great Recession, the Economics discipline is under scrutiny. How can we criticise, re-invent, and develop economic thinking for the future? This module will explore this important question discussing lessons learnt from the past. In this module you will build knowledge of different economic theories established in the past. Moreover, you will learn how to compare and contrast alternative theories, developing an appreciation for the assumptions, the methods, and the solutions offered by different schools of thought to economic problems that are still affecting society nowadays. You will embark on a journey of discovery, studying the evolution of economic thought over the past four centuries, from Adam Smith’s concept of natural order to the current days’ debate on the Re-thinking Economics Movement. We will discuss how Economics has become the discipline that we know today, and what we can do to shape economic thinking for the future. Assessment tasks will address this debate, and they will focus on interaction and collaboration amongst students in partnership with your lecturer. By the end of the module you will have developed your critical thinking skills and your ability to identify strengths and flaws in different economic arguments and methodologies. Your ability to construct informed economic judgements will support you in further studies. It will represent an essential skill to establish as an experienced professional in the job market.

CLIMATE CHANGE: SCIENCE AND POLICY

Code ENV-5003A

Credits 20

You will develop your skills and understanding in the integrated analysis of global climate change, using perspectives from both the natural sciences and the social sciences. You will gain a grounding in the basics of climate change science, impacts, adaptation, mitigation and their influence on and by policy decisions. This module also offers you a historical perspective on how climate policy has developed, culminating in the December 2015 Paris Agreement. Finally, it considers what will be required to meet the goal of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels.

LEVEL 4 BEGINNERS LANGUAGE MODULES

Code PPLB4

Credits 20

There are a broad range of Beginners Language Modules for you to choose from. To explore all our available modules, please follow the link at the top of this page to see a full list of Level 4 Options.

LEVEL 5 BEGINNERS LANGUAGE MODULES

Code PPLB5

Credits 20

INTRODUCTION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION

Code PPLI5044A

Credits 20

Who rules the EU? What does it do concretely for EU citizens? How democratic is it? How serious are the challenges it is currently facing, from the reform of its economic governance to Brexit? To explore these questions, and more, you'll examine the development, structure, nature and functions of the European Union. You'll look at the history and theories of European integration from the 1940s to the present day. You'll explore the institutions and processes which run the EU, and demystify its main policies. The aim of the module is not only to ensure that you understand the ‘nuts and bolts’ of what the EU is and how it works. You'll also examine critically and articulate contending arguments on key issues such as the role of the member-states in the European system of governance; the EU's democratic credentials; the causes and consequences of Brexit; or the influence of the EU in the world. The EU is an integral part of its member states' structures of governance and it influences their domestic political, social and cultural life, as well as EU neighbouring countries. Understanding how the European Union works is important in many jobs at local, national or international levels in the public, private and third (community and voluntary) sectors. This module is recommended if you intend to progress to the 'European Studies with Brussels Internship’ module in Year 3.

POWER, WEALTH AND NATIONS: GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY

Code PPLI5161B

Credits 20

This course provides students with an introduction to the global political economy. The world is made up of flows: goods, services, capital, people, cultures, and ideas which continuously cross borders and move across oceans. And so it has been for hundreds of years, An array of international regimes, national authorities, nongovernmental organisations, companies, and social movements exist to promote, prohibit, or regulate these exchanges and flows. There are, just as importantly, the processes of the ‘everyday’, the social reproduction of society, that reveal how gendered the global political economy actually is. And one of the biggest challenges is thinking how to manage the fragile environmental equilibrium and economics’ obsession with growth on a finite planet. All this is taking place in a world moving East, to Asia, and in the process of decolonising from the long shadow of Western extractive imperialism in the global South.

Admissions Live Chat

Open Days

Important Information

Assessment for Year 4

Beginners' Language Modules

You can select from a wide range of language modules. For more information, and for a full list of available module options, please visit our Language Options page.

Compulsory Modules

GLOBALISATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-6006B

Credits 20

The causes and consequences of globalisation are controversial and this module will present alternative theoretical perspectives that lie behind these debates. It extends the analysis of trade and international finance in Economics of Development 3. Specific areas that are examined include global production and transnational corporations, global trade and liberalisation, global finance and debt crises, aid and migration, as well as several cross-cutting issues such as the impacts of globalisation on the environment and on poverty and inequality.

DISSERTATION

Code DEV-6007Y

Credits 40

The dissertation will provide you with an opportunity to undertake a research project on a topic within development studies in consultation with your supervisor. It is intended to complement the more conventional methods of coursework and examination assessment, allowing you to investigate and consider themes and issues of importance to you in more depth. The dissertation is not an extended essay; rather it is a (social) scientific piece of research that sets out a clear question and methods, and develops a coherent argument based on a review of existing and/or interpretation of fresh evidence, and application to theory. Please note, the dissertation is restricted to International Development and Environmental Geography & International Development students.

DISSERTATION (WINTER SUBMISSION)

Code DEV-6017A

Credits 40

Optional A Modules

(40-60 credits)

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5001A

Credits 20

EDUCATION AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5003A

Credits 20

LATIN AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5005B

Credits 20

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5006B

Credits 20

SOUTH ASIAN DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5007B

Credits 20

COMMUNICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-5015A

Credits 20

POLITICS, DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIETY

Code DEV-5019B

Credits 20

WARS AND HUMANITARIAN CRISES

Code DEV-6003A

Credits 20

Since the late 1950s, far more wars have been fought within the boundaries of single states than between different countries. The occurrence of these violent intrastate conflicts poses significant challenges to the development agenda, as they have often devastating social, political and economic consequences that can lead to severe humanitarian crises. Grounded in the acknowledgment that it is extremely difficult to meet international development targets in states experiencing violent civil conflict, the aim of Wars & Humanitarian Crises is to critically assess the (contested) causes and possible solutions of protracted civil wars. Key themes in the module include competing explanations for the incidence of civil war; the humanitarian implications of civil wars; the role of the media in reporting wars and humanitarian action; terrorism as another form of political violence that is distinct from but in many cases related to violent intrastate conflicts; and strategies and challenges of peace-building.

DEVELOPMENT WORK PLACEMENT

Code DEV-6005A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with the opportunity to work overseas or in the UK, for example working in education, conservation, agriculture, working with vulnerable groups, administration or journalism. You are expected to fund your own project, which must be approved by the module convenor. The School has a database of projects to assist you with your project selection. The work placement can be between 2 - 5 months duration, over a period stretching from the summer (July) at the end of year two through to the end of the autumn semester of year three (November/December). You are expected to work for a minimum of two months and complete 150 hours of work as a minimum requirement. There are two pieces of assessment: an initial reflective piece of writing about the placement, and an essay related to the placement or project work.

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT & CONSERVATION

Code DEV-6005B

Credits 20

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT & CONSERVATION is a hands-on module that uses recent research and practical experience to analyse the challenges for more just development and conservation policies in the developing world. You will be examining themes such as the relationship between science and policy, and the implications of increased participation and local control in the use of natural resources through an environmental justice lens, bringing together theory and the use of case studies, in order to learn how people across the world are trying to put in to practice different types of just transformations for sustainability. Each year these themes will be explored within two selected contexts such as; African pastoralism, savannah-forest mosaics, water resources and irrigated agriculture, forestry, biodiversity, indigenous territories, fisheries and aquatic resources, environment and conservation, etc.

DEVELOPMENT IN PRACTICE

Code DEV-6009B

Credits 20

This module offers you the opportunity to explore how development ideas and aims are reflected in contemporary and emerging development practice. The module content is geared towards giving you tools with which to approach working in development, exploring the process of defining and developing development projects. We explore the history of different approaches to aid enterprises, and how they have been shaped by different geo-political and ideological forces. You will learn the difference between a log frame and a theory of change, how to create both, and how they may be useful to defining your endeavours. You will work in a team to develop your own project, with a justification of the need, an evidence-based approach and a strong analysis of the social and political context in which it is going to operate. This will also need a communications strategy and a fully costed budget, all of which you will be supported to learn how to do. However we will also encourage you to think critically about these processes, looking at how these tools have been developed and why, and being aware of their limitations and benefits.

URBAN GEOGRAPHIES

Code DEV-6010B

Credits 20

This module will examine the historical and contemporary development and governance of urban centres around the globe. In order to understand these processes, we will explore the key spaces and nodes of the city, and the multiple relationships and processes that shape and reshape urban spaces. We will examine the changing environmental, political, social, and economic dynamics of cities and smaller urban centres, drawing on case studies from the global north and the global south. The module will cover a range of concepts and topics which have preoccupied urban geographers, including but not limited to: decolonizing urban planning; social housing and housing justice; urban economic restructuring and neoliberalism; urban infrastructure; eviction and displacement; informality; migration; race and sexuality in the city; citizenship; and urban nature. A one-day field trip focusing on urban planning and regeneration is an integral part of the module.

POLITICS, POLICY AND PRACTICE

Code DEV-6011B

Credits 20

This module builds upon key themes in the politics of development that recur throughout the politics-related modules in DEV: distributions of power and resources, geographies of poverty and inequality, and dynamics of social and political change. The module mixes lectures with student led sessions that are intended to provide space for students to draw out their experiences of development in practice, and to think through concrete strategies for making human society a little less unequal, violent, and destructive. Students are encouraged to approach ‘development’ as a ‘relational whole’, and to think critically about the complex and often contradictory nature of change. The module culminates in a workshop in which groups of students will present strategies for fostering more equitable processes of social change.

MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-6014A

Credits 20

This module will address different forms of migration (e.g. internal, international, circular, return, seasonal, irregular) and reasons why people migrate (e.g. economic, political, social and environmental), and will critically explore the different ways in which these are related to development and change in societies of origin and destination. We will start by exploring migration from a historical perspective, and addressing different theoretical approaches with a multidisciplinary angle (including different methods of researching migration – both quantitative and qualitative), as well as regional differences and heterogeneity in migration trends and patterns across the globe. We will then look at key issues in migration studies including: types of migrants; networks and community organisations that link home and host societies; migrants’ integration into the host society; the impact of climate change on people’s movement; policies, citizenship and human rights; and the refugee crisis. Within these topics, we will also discuss inequalities across population subgroups (e.g. by age, gender, education and ethnicity) in terms of migration opportunities, access, networks and integration. These topics will be discussed through the analysis of case studies in various parts of the world and the participation of local community practitioners or migrants themselves in one or more seminar sessions. The module will also include one visit to a local museum to learn about the long and complex history of migration to Norfolk from the museum curators. With this comprehensive approach to migration this module will move beyond a narrow and casual view of the relationship between migration and development, and contribute to understanding the myriad ways in which global forces influence people’s movements, and how these movements, in turn, have historically been transforming societies and communities.

Optional B Modules

(0-20 credits)

THE EUROPEAN ECONOMY

Code ECO-5006B

Credits 20

HISTORY OF ECONOMIC THOUGHT

Code ECO-5009B

Credits 20

DEVELOPMENT ECONOMICS

Code ECO-6002A

Credits 20

In this module you’ll explore central issues in the economics of development, along the following themes: 1) Perspectives on development: Examine trends in development thinking, development initiatives and critiques. Also discuss various notions of development. 2) Explaining underdevelopment and development policies: Focus on key models of development. You’ll also study some specific aspects in detail, such as inequality, poverty, labour, and agriculture, stressing the various inter-linkages and relationships between these topics. 3) Applied development economics: Consider implementation issues in contemporary development economics and examine the role of development agencies in aiding development.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY MAKING

Code ENV-5002B

Credits 20

The most significant obstacles to problem solving are often political, not scientific or technological. This module examines the emergence and processes of environmental politics. It analyses these from different theoretical perspectives, particularly theories of power and public policy making. The module is focused on contemporary examples of politics and policy making at UK, EU and international levels. The module supports student-led learning by enabling students to select (and develop their own theoretical interpretations of) ‘real world’ examples of politics. Assessment is via seminar slides and a case study essay. The module assumes no prior knowledge of politics.

CLIMATE CHANGE: SCIENCE AND POLICY

Code ENV-5003A

Credits 20

NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS

Code ENV-6012B

Credits 20

Environmental economics provides a set of tools and principles which can be useful in understanding natural resource management issues. This module introduces you to key principles and tools of environmental economics for students who have not studied the subject previously. It then explores how these principles can be applied to address a number of complex economy-environment problems including climate change, over-fishing and water resources management. In this module you will have the opportunity to practically apply cost-benefit analysis as a framework for decision-making and will gain knowledge on the key non-market valuation techniques that are used to monetarily value environmental goods and services. At the end of the module you will have gained insights into how environmental economics is used in developing natural resource management policy as well as some of the challenges in using environmental economics in policy-making.

ENERGY AND PEOPLE

Code ENV-6026B

Credits 20

Modern everyday life rests fundamentally on the availability of energy. Since the 1970s, however, serious concerns have been raised about the sustainability of current energy systems. Traditionally, these problems have been analysed (and solutions proposed) from within the engineering and physical sciences. Understanding, managing and attempting to solve energy problems, however, demands a thorough appreciation of how people, at a range of scales, engage with energy in the course of their daily lives. This is a critical challenge for the social sciences, and will be the core focus of this module. Through this module, you will discover and explore a range of social science perspectives on the inter-relationships between energy and people. You will learn how to apply these ideas to contemporary energy problems and use them to generate your own visions for a sustainable energy future. You’ll also be given the chance to work as part of a team and to communicate your ideas through both written and oral presentation. You’ll begin by tracing the history and development of energy intensive societies and everyday lives as a means of understanding how energy has emerged as a key sustainability problem. You’ll then go into more depth around different theories of social and technical change before exploring how these can be used to critically analyse a range of people-based solutions to energy problems that are currently being tried and tested around the world. You’ll learn through a combination of lectures and seminars involving interactive group projects, class debates, practical exercises and student-led learning. At the end of the module, you will have developed the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to allow you to apply theories of social and technical change to a range of real-world energy problems. You’ll be able to develop and critically analyse your own (and already existing) visions of a sustainable energy future, and you’ll be able to creatively communicate these ideas to a range of different audiences.

LEVEL 5 BEGINNERS LANGUAGE MODULES

Code PPLB5

Credits 20

INTRODUCTION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION

Code PPLI5044A

Credits 20

POWER, WEALTH AND NATIONS: GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY

Code PPLI5161B

Credits 20

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

ABB or BBB with an A in the Extended Project

BTEC

DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration

Scottish highers

AAABB

Scottish highers advanced

BCC

Irish leaving certificate

3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3

Access course

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3

European Baccalaureate

75%

International Baccalaureate

32 points

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as:

BA Geography and International Development with a Foundation Year

BA International Development with a Foundation Year

INTO UNIVERSITY OF EAST ANGLIA 

If you do not meet the academic and/or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree: 

International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science (for Year 1 entry to UEA) 

International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences (for Year 1 entry to UEA) 

International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering (for Year 1 entry to UEA) 

International Foundation in Business Economics Society and Culture (for Year 1 entry to UEA) 

International Foundation in Humanities and Law (for Year 1 entry to UEA) 

Alternative Entry Requirements

UEA recognises that some students take a mixture of International Baccalaureate IB or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme IBCP study rather than the full diploma, taking Higher levels in addition to A levels and/or BTEC qualifications. At UEA we do consider a combination of qualifications for entry, provided a minimum of three qualifications are taken at a higher Level. In addition some degree programmes require specific subjects at a higher level. 

Students for whom english is a foreign language

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading): 

IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Please click here to see our full list. 

INTO University of East Anglia  

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study: 

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time. 

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.  We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application. 

Intakes

This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.

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Course Reference Number: 4479414

BA INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH ECONOMICS WITH A PLACEMENT YEAR