Education and International Development MA

UCL (University College London)

The Education and International Development MA is an interdisciplinary course that critically examines the politics of development and the role of education in fostering social justice and sustainable futures, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. Ideal for those from education, international relations, and social science backgrounds, the course equips you with the tools to understand policy, lead change, and critically engage with the evolving meanings and practices of development. This course equips you with the critical tools to understand and respond to the evolving role of education in a rapidly changing global landscape. As international development faces new challenges, from shifting geopolitical alliances and security concerns to funding realignments and climate-related crises; education remains a vital site of both contestation and transformation. The course enables you to explore how education intersects with global policy, diplomacy, humanitarian response, and peacebuilding. It offers a rigorous foundation in theory, policy, and practice, alongside training in research methods and analysis - skills that are increasingly valued across sectors including international organisations, NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions. There will be opportunities for you to be introduced to a number of key international development organisations involved in education and learn more about the nature of their work, as well as to find out about professional development opportunities. In previous years, students have organised career development events and benefited from volunteering opportunities via the Students' Union UCL Volunteering Service. In a time of uncertainty and transformation in international development, this course prepares you not only to adapt, but to lead with critical insight, ethical awareness, and a commitment to social justice. The course can be taken on campus, online (distance), or a combination of both (mixed mode). Please select the relevant mode of study at point of application. Note that distance and mixed mode options are not available to students applying for a student visa. This course is suited to professionals working in the formal and non-formal sectors in education and international development who would like to reflect and build on their experience in these areas, as well as to those looking to move into this area of work. It is also suited to those interested in carrying out research or future doctoral study. This programme is also available on a modular (flexible) basis, with a duration of 5 calendar years.