University of Bristol United Kingdom

MSc Development and Security

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MSc Development and Security at the University of Bristol is designed for aspiring professionals and researchers seeking to understand the complex interplay between global development and security challenges. You will explore critical issues such as violent conflict, international responses, and evolving patterns of global governance, grounded in a comprehensive theoretical understanding of development and security studies. This postgraduate degree is ideal for those who wish to analyse contemporary issues through empirical case studies and contribute to informed policy and practice in a vital, interconnected world.

This full-time, on-campus Masters programme is studied over one year, offering a structured curriculum that includes mandatory units on theoretical approaches, conflict, security, and development, alongside a substantial 60-credit dissertation. You will have the opportunity to select optional units, allowing you to tailor your studies to specific interests such as global justice, European security, or climate crisis and international security. You will graduate with advanced analytical skills and a deep understanding of development and security dynamics, preparing you for careers in international organisations, NGOs, government, and research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program explores the intricate relationship between development and security, examining theoretical approaches to both fields. You will engage with core concepts such as conflict, security, and development, alongside optional modules that delve into specialized areas like European security, global justice, and climate crisis implications. The curriculum also offers a wide range of optional courses in research methods, political economy, and social justice, allowing for tailored study.

1 Year 1 (2025/26)

Dissertation Mandatory
Theoretical Approaches to Security Mandatory
Theories of Development Mandatory
Conflict, Security and Development Mandatory
Global Justice Optional
European Security Optional
China's International Relations Optional
The Politics of (Un)sustainability Optional
China’s Political Economy: Trade and Finance in China Optional
Transitional Justice in the Aftermath of Conflict Optional
Money, Finance & Power in the Global Political Economy Optional
Security Governance Optional
Gender and Development Optional
Managing and Evaluating Development Optional
Society, Politics and Climate Change Optional
Gender, Masculinity/ies and International Relations Optional
Foreign Policy Analysis Optional
International Human Rights Optional
Climate Crisis and International Security Optional
Researching Organisations, Institutions and Management Optional
Vulnerabilities, Capacities and Disasters Optional
Care, Labour and Gender Optional
Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences Optional
Philosophy and Research Design in the Social Sciences Optional
Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods in the Social Sciences Optional
Contemporary Identities and Inequalities Optional
Gender, Family and Migration Optional
Understanding Social Movements Optional
Digital Economy and Society Optional
Rationality and Absurdity Optional
Consumption, Environment and Sustainable Development Optional
Advanced Qualitative Research Optional
Further Quantitative Methods Optional
Sociological Theory and the Concept of Culture Optional
Advanced Quantitative Research Optional
Understanding Culture Optional
Contemporary Sociological Theory Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,686.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 40,686.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Agricultural Technology & Precision FarmingBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesClinical & Medical ServicesCrop Production & FarmingEdTech & E-LearningEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingFisheries & AquacultureRehabilitation & PhysiotherapyTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte

EY

Environment Agency

National Farmers'​ Union

United Nations

Why Study MSc Development and Security at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol 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 MSc Development and Security at University of Bristol

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 required for this level of study.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet the English language requirements: A TOEFL overall score of 88 or an IELTS score of 6.5 is needed. Other acceptable tests include PTE with a score of 67 across all sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue roles such as Policy Analyst, Security Consultant, Development Officer, or International Relations Specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This innovative program examines violent conflict and the international community's responses while providing a comprehensive understanding of development and security studies. Additionally, it utilizes contemporary case studies to explore relevant issues.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Development and Security program begins in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to secure your spot.
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