COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA in Poverty and Development offers a comprehensive program combining core modules, optional courses, and independent research to provide students with a deep understanding of poverty, inequality, and development policy. Core modules begin with Poverty and Inequality in the autumn, which introduces key theories, concepts, and analytical tools for understanding poverty in local and global contexts. In the spring, Debating Poverty and Vulnerability: Policy and Programming develops students’ ability to critically evaluate interventions and policies, while Research Design equips them with methodological skills for conducting rigorous research. The summer term is dedicated to the Dissertation in Poverty and Development, allowing students to undertake independent research under expert supervision. Optional modules enable students to tailor their learning to their interests, covering themes such as Economic Perspectives on Development, Power and Social Perspectives on Development, Aid and Poverty, Climate Change and Development, Competing in the Green Economy, Development in Cities, Governance of Violent Conflict and (In)security, Health and Development, Multisectoral Responses to Crises and Vulnerability, Nutrition, Public Finance, Reflective and Creative Practice for Social Change, Theory and Practice of Impact Evaluation, and Unruly Politics. Students may also opt for an IDS Placement-based Dissertation, gaining practical experience while conducting research linked to their dissertation. The program equips graduates with analytical, research, and professional skills, preparing them for careers in policy, research, advocacy, international development, and further academic study.