Learning, teaching and assessment
The programme uses a range of learning and teaching methods including short lectures, group work, group and individual presentations, individual study and exercises. Each module is assessed differently using assessments that include 2,000–3,000 word essays, group projects, presentations, exercises and exams. A 10,000–12,000 word dissertation is also required for the MSc award.
By the end of your study you will gain:
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An understanding and application of key concepts, frameworks and methods of social analysis in development interventions
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The application of analystical frameworks, such as the livelihoods framework from the Department for International Development, plus new tools for participatory and gender analysis of inequality. These are applied to different social sectors (including health, education, and infrastructure).
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An in-depth understanding of poverty and inequality and how they relate to: ethnicity and citizenship; social movements; and the politics of caste, religion and development, and gender and development
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Writing skills to produce well structured and coherent essays and reports, making good use of references
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Oral presentation skills
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Ability to access material from different sources including policy documents and other publications from governments and international organisations, documents from the internet, and from books and academic journals
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The capacity to interpret and make use of material from the above sources
Fieldwork
Gain first-hand experience of development concepts plus valuable work experience without additional costs. This Masters degree enable students either to carry out individual fieldwork in a country and on a topic of their choice or to take part in an organised study visit. Funding for this overseas study is included in the programme fee.
Enhancing your Student Experience
In the School of Government and Society we offer much more than a degree. As a student here, whether undergraduate or postgraduate, you have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of events, with some or all of the costs paid for by the School.
Some of these are targeted to help you build skills and experience for your CV, others are more open events designed to expose you to high-level speakers on current debates relevant to all Government and Society students.
Georgiana Chiriac, Harvard Model United Nations (February 2013), "Overall, This opportunity was excellent for me and for the entire delegation in terms of gaining knowledge and expertise at the highest level, as well as with regards to personal growth and development."
Joseph Bergson, Postgraduate Study trip to Delhi (2012)
I found that in both class discussions and group work the level of knowledge from everyone on the course was very high and it felt really great to be among outspoken and clever people! The additional parts of the course also set it above others classes I have taken.
Read more of our student experiences and profiles on the school website.