BA (Hons) Global Development with Economics with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
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Why you should choose us
UEA is ranked 1st overall for research quality in Development Studies
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Course Overview
Have you ever wondered why some countries are richer than others? Why being born in one country can mean you are likely to earn 70 times more than someone born in another? Why some have managed to grow rapidly, whilst others have been left behind? Have you thought about what poverty looks like in different contexts, or why some groups in society are worse off than others? How do inequalities arise? How effective are anti-poverty efforts? How should we distribute aid? What is the impact of the global economy on developing countries? What policies can improve health, education and happiness in developing countries? Essentially, how do we improve the fiscal, economic, and social conditions for the world’s poorest and create a more just world?
Learn to tackle these big questions – and many more – in our BA International Development with Economics with a Placement Year.
Please note we are changing our name to the School of Global Development from 1 August 2023, as we mark our 50th Anniversary.
This innovative course combines a strong interdisciplinary foundation with a specialist economics lens in the study of international development. You’ll take core modules that seek to understand critical contemporary issues from an economics perspective – including poverty, exclusion, deprivation, foreign aid, the environment, trade and globalisation – focusing specifically on how economic and social inequalities arise, and exploring the policies and processes that can reduce them. You’ll develop practical skills in economic methods and statistics, learning basic data analysis techniques and exploring specialist statistical software, in order to think systematically about important macroeconomics and microeconomics questions.
In addition to this economics focus, you’ll gain a broad grounding in the key issues, organisations and practices of development, fusing insights from anthropology with those from across the social sciences, including economics, environmental sciences, geography, media, and politics. You can develop your understanding of particular regions in the world, through area modules relating to sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, or Latin America, and you can pursue your emerging interests in other aspects and perspectives of development.
In your third year, you’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a Placement Year.
The result is an extremely flexible degree programme that you can tailor to suit your particular interests, and that allows you to combine an interdisciplinary foundation with your niche specialism.
By studying with us, you’ll join our close-knit academic community, made up of experts from across multiple disciplines, all housed within the School of International Development. As such, you will not only learn from our world-renowned economists within the school, but you can benefit from a truly vibrant, interdisciplinary environment.
We are amongst the best in the world for researching, teaching, and practicing development. Come and study with us and help us to create a fairer world.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
If you choose the placement year option, you’ll spend 9-12 months in a full-time development placement in your third year before returning to your studies in the final year. This placement will allow you to gain invaluable working experience and employability skills in a relevant area of your choice. You are expected to source your placement yourself, but support is available from the School staff and the Careers Service. Please note we cannot guarantee any student a work placement, as this decision rests with potential employers. If you have not successfully secured a work placement by the end of your second year, you will be transferred onto one of the three-year programmes.
Study and Modules
Structure
The core modules of your first year will provide you with a strong grounding in the study of development, before being introduced to the key development economics theories and the economic dimensions of key development challenges. You’ll also have the opportunity to extend your understanding of broader social, cultural, political, and geographical perspectives.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)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.
Teaching and Learning
When you come to the School, you’ll join a close-knit community where you can share your passion for creating a fairer planet with staff and students from around the world. Our teaching staff are actively researching real-world issues and bringing their experiences directly into the classroom. In your first year, teaching and learning takes place through a mixture of lectures, seminars and independent study. In your lectures our expert academics set out the state-of-the-art in their field; seminars are conducted in smaller groups that will allow you to engage in in-depth discussion with our academics and other students in the School. Independent study is a key element of learning on all the School’s degrees and you’ll be supported to learn how to do this effectively through your first year.
Assessment
In year 1, you’ll take a variety of assessments including essays, exams and presentations. Exactly what assessments you undertake will depend on the optional modules you select. In your first year and throughout your degree, you’ll get feedback on your assessments to help you develop your skills and improve your work.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll be introduced to the basic principles of both macroeconomics and microeconomics, combining theory and evidence to understand economic policy issues. You’ll also gain practical quantitative research skills, engaging with modern statistical software to analyse and present empirical data and statistical trends. You’ll also broaden your understanding of international development through optional regional, thematic, or disciplinary modules.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 40, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)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.
Teaching and Learning
In Year Two, you’ll learn through the same core activities as in year one, whilst also engaging in more applied learning. The School offers a range of methods modules that allow you to gain experience of conducting your own research projects. Most of these are offered in the second year of your degree. There are also a variety of field trips and courses offered on modules in the School.
Assessment
In year 2, you’ll continue to undertake a variety of assessments, the exact mix of which will depend on the optional modules you choose.
Structure
In your third year, you’ll have the chance to put what you’ve learned into practice and get hands-on professional experience through a 9-12 month work placement in a development organization, before returning to UEA for your final year. This placement will allow you to gain invaluable working experience and employability skills in a relevant area of your choice. You’re expected to source your placement yourself, but support is available from the School staff and the Careers Service.
Compulsory Modules
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.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll learn through practical experience with your placement organisation.
Assessment
During your placement year, you will not take any assessments at UEA.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll be able to choose from a range of more specialised modules, allowing you to deepen your understanding of critical development issues in a flexible manner, and you understand current debates about the role of globalisation in economic development. This year also places greater emphasis on employability and independent study. You have the opportunity to choose our dissertation option, enabling you to engage in independent research around your own particular interests.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 100)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)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.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, you’ll continue to learn through lectures, seminars and practical work. You’ll have the option to research and write a dissertation, a large individual project that requires you to exercise the independent learning skills that you will have developed over your time in the School. If you would prefer to not write a dissertation, then you can take other modules based on lectures and seminars.
Assessment
In year 4, you’ll have the option to write a dissertation, alongside taking other assessments. The dissertation is a large project that assesses a student’s ability to conduct independent research. The dissertation is optional, and you can choose to take other modules with other assessments should you wish.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB - If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism.
- BTEC
- DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration See below for accepted subjects and combinations
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BBC
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DMM
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 points
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English 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):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
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:
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- 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.
- Deferred Entry
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.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM
Diploma: DD plus B at A-level
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A-level
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
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
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)
International Year One in Global Development with Media (for Year 2 entry to UEA)
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of additional course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate with knowledge and skills valued by a vast range of organisations related to global development and many of our graduates go on to work in this sector. These include government agencies, the United Nations, private sector companies, consultancy firms, and the many hundreds of large and small non-government organisations that focus on development and humanitarian work.
Alternatively, you could use the academic and transferable skills gained from our degrees for careers in business, the voluntary and public sector, education, and academia.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Example of careers that you could enter include:
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Multilateral organisations
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British Government, including in the Department for International Development, the Department for Health and the Department for Communities
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Local Government
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NGOs
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Universities
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Consultancy firms
Discover more on our Careers webpages.