University of Reading United Kingdom

MSc Food Security and Development

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 Food Security and Development at the University of Reading equips you to address critical global challenges at the intersection of food systems, development, and sustainability. This postgraduate degree is designed for individuals driven to understand and tackle the complex drivers of food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty. You will explore contemporary theories and practices in international development, gaining a comprehensive understanding of efforts to achieve social justice and reduce poverty worldwide. This programme is ideal if you seek to develop a multidisciplinary perspective on how food systems interact with human development policies.

You will study this programme on campus full-time over one year, engaging deeply with compulsory modules such as Research for Development and Dissertation, alongside optional subjects like Rethinking Agricultural Systems or Climate Smart Agriculture. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, preparing you to design and undertake meaningful research. Through guided study and independent investigation, you will develop the conceptual and practical skills necessary for analysing and developing effective food security interventions. Graduates are prepared for impactful careers in international development agencies, NGOs, policy-making bodies, and research institutions focused on sustainable food systems.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program explores the complex interplay between food security and development. You will engage with core theories and practices of development, alongside essential research methodologies. The curriculum further examines food security within a broader development context, allowing for specialization through a range of optional modules. These optional areas delve into topics such as agricultural systems, poverty and inequality, environmental change, climate-smart agriculture, and consumer behavior, enabling a tailored understanding of global food challenges.

1 Compulsory modules

Theories and practices of development
Research for development
Dissertation
Food security and development

2 Optional modules

Rethinking agricultural systems
Poverty, inequalities and gender in development
Concepts and practices of communication
Global environmental change, justice and development
Climate smart agriculture
Traditional ecological knowledge
Agricultural project planning and rural development projects
Contemporary issues in consumer behaviour

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 35,752.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 35,752.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 467.00 - USD 1,787.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on London Road Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAgribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Agricultural Marketing & SalesAgricultural Research & DevelopmentArchitecture & Urban PlanningEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesLivestock & Animal HusbandrySupply Chain & Food Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

FAO

PepsiCo

Savillis

Syngenta

Tesco

Why Study MSc Food Security and 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 MSc Food Security and Development at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need an IELTS score with a minimum overall of 6.5 and at least 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Meeting these requirements ensures you can engage effectively in the program.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Food Security Analysts, Development Managers, Policy Advisors, Nutritionists, and Agricultural Consultants.

What will I actually study in this course?

This master's degree focuses on the challenges of global food insecurity and poverty. You will study food systems in developing countries and learn about the main drivers of malnutrition.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Food Security and Development program has an intake in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to join this important field.
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