University of York

What you'll study

This programme brings together political science and development studies to examine how states, markets and non‑state actors shape development outcomes. Teaching typically combines core modules, a range of optional modules and an independent dissertation.

Core components

• Contemporary theories of development and underdevelopment—historical and theoretical perspectives on development policy and practice.
• Political economy of development—state formation, institutions, governance and the role of markets.
• Research design and methods—qualitative and quantitative methods for analysing development and political processes, including research ethics and data handling.
• Dissertation—an independent research project supervised by academic staff, allowing students to conduct fieldwork, case studies or comparative analysis.

Typical optional topics

• Conflict, security and post‑conflict reconstruction.
• Human rights, humanitarianism and development practice.
• Gender, development and social policy.
• Migration, cities and transnational governance.
• Environmental politics and sustainable development.
• Comparative public policy and development planning.

Teaching is delivered through seminars, lectures, research workshops and supervised independent study. Assessment methods commonly include essays, policy briefs, presentations, research reports and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in politics, international relations, development studies, economics, sociology or a closely related social science discipline. The typical academic standard is equivalent to a UK upper second class (2:1), though applicants with lower classification plus relevant professional experience may be considered.

• Relevant professional or voluntary experience in development, policy, or international organisations can strengthen an application.
• All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English; details are available from the university's admissions guidance.
• Applicants are usually asked to submit a personal statement outlining research interests and a CV; referees may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA Global Development & Politics move into a wide range of roles across the public, private and non‑profit sectors. The programme combines analytical and methodological skills valued by employers working on development and governance.

• Policy analyst, adviser or researcher in central or local government and public bodies.
• Programme officer, project manager or analyst in non‑governmental organisations and charities.
• Research roles in international organisations (UN agencies, regional organisations) and multilateral development banks.
• Consultancy positions specialising in development, governance, monitoring and evaluation.
• Advocacy, campaigning and communications roles with human rights and development organisations.
• Progression to doctoral study or academic careers in development and politics.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers an interdisciplinary environment where politics and development research are supported by a broad range of specialised centres and expertise. Students benefit from the Department of Politics' teaching and supervision alongside links to research groups focused on human rights, development practice and political economy.

• Research‑active staff who publish on development, governance, conflict and human rights, providing strong supervision for dissertation projects.
• Structured methods training and research workshops designed to prepare students for applied research or policy work.
• Opportunities to engage with visiting speakers, seminars and networks that connect students with practitioners and employers in the development field.
• Careers and employability services offering CV support, employer events and internship opportunities relevant to international development and public policy.