University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This programme delivers a balance of theoretical foundations and applied quantitative techniques used to analyse development problems. Core modules cover microeconomic and macroeconomic approaches to development, advanced econometrics, and impact evaluation methods. You will study topics such as poverty and inequality, labour and agricultural markets, health and education economics, migration and remittances, trade and development, and the design and evaluation of development interventions.

Teaching combines lectures, seminars and computer-based practical sessions. You will undertake a substantial independent research project (dissertation) that applies empirical methods to a policy-relevant question in development economics. Typical course components include:

• Microeconomics for development — household and firm behaviour, market failures and policy responses.
• Macroeconomics of developing economies — growth, fiscal and monetary policy, external shocks.
• Applied econometrics and programme evaluation — causal inference, randomized controlled trials, matching, difference-in-differences, instrumental variables and panel methods.
• Specialist development modules — poverty measurement, labour and agricultural economics, health and education policy, development finance and trade.
• Independent research dissertation — supervised empirical study culminating in a dissertation applying methods learned in taught modules.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a good undergraduate degree (typically an upper second-class honours, 2:1, or equivalent) in economics, econometrics, mathematics, or a closely related social science with a strong quantitative component. Prior training in mathematics and statistics is usually required because of the programme's emphasis on econometric methods. Relevant professional experience in development policy, research or related sectors may strengthen an application where academic background is less conventional.

Applications should include academic transcripts, a personal statement explaining your interest and suitability for the programme, and at least one academic reference. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements; scores from recognised tests or equivalent qualifications are accepted.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles in the development field. Typical destinations include:

• Economist or policy analyst roles in international organisations and development agencies (multilateral and bilateral).
• Research positions in think-tanks, policy institutes and university research centres focused on development issues.
• Monitoring and evaluation or impact-evaluation specialist roles in NGOs and charities.
• Advisory and consultancy work with governments, development consultancies and private-sector firms working in emerging markets.
• Further academic study, including PhD programmes in economics, development studies or related social sciences.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers an environment combining research-active academic staff with applied policy engagement and strong quantitative teaching. The School provides access to econometric computing facilities, data resources and supervision from staff working on empirical development projects. Students benefit from interdisciplinary links across social sciences and from careers and employability support tailored to postgraduate researchers.

Nottingham’s campus setting, organised research seminars and practitioner engagement give students opportunities to develop networks with peers, academics and external partners, supporting both academic progression and entry into development careers.