University of Reading United Kingdom

BSc International Development

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc International Development at the University of Reading offers you a comprehensive understanding of the complex global challenges that define our era, from climate change and biodiversity loss to poverty and inequality. This undergraduate degree is designed for students eager to explore the intricate relationships between economic, social, and environmental issues across different societies. You will delve into critical topics such as global sustainability, economic environments, and the diverse realities of international development, preparing you to analyse and address pressing world issues with informed perspectives.

This full-time, three-year on-campus programme equips you with essential research methodologies for international development, enabling you to analyse both qualitative and quantitative data. You will engage with theoretical approaches to development, gain practical experience through a professional practice placement, and develop your critical thinking skills. In your final year, you will complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice, culminating in a degree that prepares you for impactful careers in NGOs, governmental bodies, and international organisations focused on global change and sustainability.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of international development, spanning global challenges, economic principles, and diverse cultural perspectives. Students will engage with core concepts in sustainability, global justice, and contemporary world issues, complemented by optional modules in social anthropology, political ideas, and management. The curriculum progresses to research methodologies, professional practice placements, and advanced topics such as environment and development, global politics, and data analysis. The final year culminates in a dissertation and compulsory modules on power, digital development, and consumption, alongside a range of specialized optional subjects.

1 YEAR 1

Global Sustainability: Challenges and Prospects Compulsory
The Economic Environment Compulsory
International Development: Global and Local Issues Compulsory
Alternative Voices: Changing Perspectives of International Development Compulsory
Contemporary World Cultures: An Introduction to Social Anthropology Optional
Global Justice Optional
Introduction to Political Ideas Optional
The Fundamentals of Management and Marketing Optional
Inequality Optional
War and Warfare Optional
Geographical Imaginaries Optional
Human Geographies – Concepts, Theory and Practice Optional

2 YEAR 2

Research Methods for International Development Compulsory
Approaches to International Development Compulsory
Professional Practice Placement for International Development Compulsory
Global Politics and History Optional
Environment and Development Optional
Energy Resources Optional
Analysing Social Data: Techniques and Applications Optional
Development of Transferable Skills through a School Placement Optional
Optional Language or University Wide Module Optional
Corporate Social Responsibility Consultancy Optional
Living with Each Other: Social and Cultural Geography Optional
Modern International Relations Optional

3 YEAR 3

Dissertation Compulsory
Power and Development Compulsory
Digital For Development Compulsory
Consumption, Politics and Space Optional
Politics and International Relations of the Middle East Optional
International Political Economy Optional
War, Peace and International Ethics Optional
International Organisations in Global Politics Optional
Global Justice, Labour and Development Optional
Feminism and Political Theory Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 104,824.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,126.00 - USD 18,832.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on WhiteKnights Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Architecture & Urban PlanningBanking & Financial ServicesBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringElectrical & Mechanical InstallationEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingReal Estate DevelopmentRetail & GrocerySupply Chain & Food Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

FAO

Manchester City Council

Savillis

Tesco

atkinsréalis

Why Study BSc International Development at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc International Development at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree students.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can choose from several tests. For example, an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 88 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Development Consultant, Policy Analyst, Project Manager, Researcher, and NGO Coordinator.

What will I actually study in this course?

Study at the UK’s leading university for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 1st in the People and Planet University League, 2023/24).

The study of international development has never been more relevant or important. Complex global problems affect all our lives, as the world experiences rapid and uneven change. More people are moving out of poverty but inequalities are also growing.

Through this course you will explore critical issues

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start your BSc in International Development in September. Be sure to check application deadlines to secure your spot.
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