Global Development BA

Course overview

Get the skills to fight for a more equal, just and fairer society by tackling the most critical issues threatening our world.

With climate change, poverty, inequality and global conflict compromising our way of life, our world dangles precariously on a knife-edge.

However, global development specialists have the expertise and passion to address our planet’s most urgent concerns. Skilled in project management, cross-cultural communication and data analysis, they design sustainable solutions, facilitate humanitarian aid and advocate for a better tomorrow.

This course immerses you in the complex but fulfilling role of global development and how it drives positive change. You’ll delve into the politics of inequality, poverty, economic and social development, while learning how this industry works to help manage them.

The core of this programme builds your understanding of global development practices. You’ll also engage with how current global initiatives, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), came into being. You’ll then develop your understanding of how global development agencies design and deliver their programmes.

By the end of your course, you’ll have the confidence and skills to better understand how the world works and to help ensure a better way of life for all.

All staff in the development modules are really friendly, and you feel like they really want to see you do well, because they love what they do and want to see students succeed.

Luke Humphrey, BA International Development

Why study at Leeds?

• Excellent prospects: 86% of students surveyed on this course are in work or doing further study 15 months after graduating (Discover Uni).
• A world-ranked School: Build your global development expertise in our highly-regarded School of Politics and International Studies.
• Engage with expert tutors: Learn from influential academics who are helping shape policy and hear from inspiring guest speakers.
• Level up your research skills: Add an analytical focus to your degree with the chance to apply for a Quantitative Research Methods pathway, helping you develop advanced analytical skills in high demand by employers worldwide.
• Study abroad: Enhance your skillset and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with a year studying abroad.
• Gain real-world experience: Enhance your career prospects and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate by applying for a paid industrial work placement year. 

Video transcript
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Course details and modules

Each year of your degree features compulsory modules that provide the foundation of your studies. These will teach you about the political dynamics of global development and international development practice we focus on the connection between theory and practice through engagement with case studies and empirical research.

In addition to these compulsory modules, you can choose from a range of discovery modules. These are taken from across the University, allowing you to broaden your knowledge in different ways.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Global Development BA in the course catalogue

Year 1

In Year 1 you’ll gain the foundational skills needed to study the topic. You’ll learn about the causes of, and factors influencing, contemporary ideas and expressions of development, the effects of colonialism and the legacy of colonial rule in Africa, Asia and the Americas. You’ll also consider what you’ve learned in the context of political theory and international politics.

Year 2

In Year 2 you’ll build upon this knowledge, through core modules in the politics of development, and international development theory and practice. You will engage with real world case studies on issues such as water security, poverty reduction and social protection, and rights to food and basic services. You will study how different institutions design policy and programmes to address these challenges. You’ll also improve your research skills, learn how we create new insights and, via optional modules, explore related topics like public policy, security studies and international relations.

If you spend a semester abroad during this year, you’ll study modules at your host institution that replace some of those you would be expected to take in Leeds. See ‘Study abroad and work placements’ section for details.

Final Year

Most of your final year is dedicated to your dissertation. This is on a topic of your choice, requires independent research and lets you demonstrate your interdisciplinary, critical research skills.

In your final year you’ll complete your studies with your dissertation, alongside optional modules from a range of international and global development topics, although you can also choose modules from across the School of Politics and International Studies.

Quantitative Research Methods Pathway

At the end of Year 1, you'll have the opportunity to apply for our Quantitative Research Methods Pathway. This will help you develop advanced analytical skills, which are in high demand across the public, private and third sectors.

You will learn statistical analysis techniques and their application to real data (e.g. survey data, countries’ statistical data) using statistical software. You will also write a dissertation in which you will analyse quantitative data to examine questions about politics, development or international relations.

You are not required to have studied Mathematics at A level for this pathway. You will need to attain an overall grade of 2:1 in first year to qualify for the pathway.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Year 1 compulsory modules

The Politics of Global Challenges: Becoming an Independent Researcher (40 credits) - This module will introduce students to key themes and topics when studying politics and international studies (POLIS). You’ll understand how you collaborate in an academic community and gain key skills for academic work, research, and scholarly independence. You’ll also be introduced to the main themes and questions surrounding the politics of global challenges.

The Making of the Modern World (20 credits)

In this part of the course you’ll understand how our world became increasingly integrated and connected, approaching the concept from economic, political, military and social perspectives. You’ll examine the concept of modernity through major historical events including the Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution and the French Revolution, while also challenging their dominant narratives. Later, you’ll learn how colonialism has impacted land, health and the climate catastrophe, how colonialism has been resisted, and colonialism’s more persistent features.

Global Development Challenges (20 credits)

In this module you’ll learn about the dynamics of global development such as poverty, health, hunger, education, work and environmental sustainability. The module will also teach you how to analyse, synthesise and communicate ideas and information in different formats.

International Politics (20 credits)

You'll start this module with a brief historical context, covering some of the key developments in world politics to date. You’ll be introduced to many of International Politics’ most important concepts including the international system, war, peace, sovereignty, collective security, inequality, and international organisations. You’ll also be introduced to regionalism in international affairs, and in particular to the international politics of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.

Year 1 discovery modules

You will be able to take 20 credits of discovery modules.

Year 2 compulsory modules

Approaches to Analysis (20 credits) 

You will learn here about the different ways we approach research, with a showcase of the latest research in POLIS. This helps introduce you to key ideas like designing and implementing a research project, along with key methods in politics, international development and international relations. You’ll gain practical experience of gathering evidence, while many of your other skills developed will transfer well to employment.

International Development Theory and Practice (20 credits)

This module provides you with an understanding of the international development industry as it has evolved since the end of the second world war. You will learn about competing ideas of development and analyse how agencies of international development operate in practice.

The Politics of Development (20 credits)

In this module in-depth case studies are used to introduce you to the complex politics of ‘development’. For example, in learning about the informal settlements of Nairobi, you gain understanding of state capability to deliver services, and how citizens attempt to improve their access to employment, water and sanitation. We teach you multi-dimensional contextual analysis which is a vital skill for many policy and practice roles.

Year 2 optional modules

You will choose 40 credits of optional modules from a range of related topics, typically including:

State and Politics in Africa (20 credits)

This module investigates the concept of the ‘African renaissance’, brought about by the continent’s positive GDP growth and increasing election frequency after the instability of the 1980s. You’ll consider if such a narrative is credible, particularly in light of post-covid political dynamics, and learn more about the continent’s various social, political and developmental challenges.

Politics of Contemporary China (20 credits)

If you’re looking for a thorough understanding of contemporary Chinese politics, this module is an essential choice. It discusses the structure of the state, the evolving role of the Chinese Communist Party and how Chinese society is affected by economic and political reforms. You’ll also explore political struggles and development strategies in regions such as Xinjiang, and critically engage with relevant literature and policy debates.

Analysing Data in Politics, International Development and International Relations (20 credits)

The focus of this module is basic statistical analysis, which allows us to answer complex questions around human behaviour. Combining mathematics with a hands-on applied approach, you’ll learn how to use and apply numerical data and explain the results of your analysis. The skills learned here will greatly expand your dissertation topics and approaches and are highly valued by employers as well.

The Political Economy of North-South Linkages (20 credits)

This module explores the principal forms of the political-economic relationship and interaction between the industrialised Global North and the newly industrialised/developing Global South. It analyses the key drivers, characteristics, and repercussions of this relationship, including how and in whose interests this structure operates. The roles of international organisations that mediate relations between North and South – for instance the World Bank – will be studied. Structures and processes of global production, trade, regulation and standards will be discussed, analysing their properties and identifying points of tensions and conflicts between Northern and Southern agendas and interests.

Year 2 discovery modules

You will be able to take 20 credits of discovery modules.

Year 3 compulsory modules

POLIS Final Year Project (40 credits) - Your dissertation is a piece of written work that’s 10,000 words long. It’s an opportunity to further investigate a topic you’re interested in but haven’t had the chance to research. You can also use it to further explore second and third-year modules in greater detail.

Final Year optional modules

You will choose 60 credits of optional modules from a range of related topics, typically including:

Global Development and Social Policy (20 credits)

In this module, you’ll look at the relationship between social policy (designed to promote human welfare and social development) and the global South’s diverse development challenges. The module uses case studies to explore topics like disability, hunger, education, employment, health, housing, gender and inequality. You’ll consider how we design and implement social policy to achieve better development outcomes, as well as who designs it in the first place.

Violence and Reconciliation in Africa (20 credits) 

The focus of this module is the causes, nature and consequences of violence in Africa. Touching upon race, class, ethnicity, gender, religion and resources, you’ll learn about African statehood, ‘warlord politics’, resource wars and state collapse. You’ll also evaluate current approaches to peace building and justice, as well as international intervention, peacekeeping and the International Criminal Court.

Gender, Violence and Security in Global Politics (20 credits)

This module offers a feminist, decolonised and intersectional perspective on security, violence and war. You’ll come to understand the key concepts around gender, sex and race in international security, explore gender-based violence, and learn how the intersection of gender, sex and race shapes our response to violence and war.

Rethinking resistance (20 credits)

This is an opportunity to explore some of politics’ more radical ideas, challenging received ways of thinking. You’ll discuss the meaning of politics and what it means to be a political subject, as well as ideas of inclusion, identity, the self and freedom. Other topics for your consideration include what political subjects we give power, as well as what is made marginal or prohibited.

British Foreign Policy (20 credits) 

This module focuses primarily on British Foreign Policy after the Second World War. It begins with the theory of foreign policy analysis, with later weeks focussing on regions, relationships and events crucial to the policy. Examples include the Anglo-American relationship, former colonial nations like India and Australia, the Post-War Settlement in Europe and the Cold War.

Global Political Economy (20 credits)

In this module you’ll receive a thorough grounding in the global political economy, as well as the tools to critically analyse it. It focuses on both global and regional institutions including the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund and the European Union. You’ll be guided in each case by core political economy issues, as well as the everyday and lived experience of capitalism.

Final year discovery modules

You will be able to take 20 credits of discovery modules.

Learning and teaching

We use a variety of teaching and learning methods on this course, including lectures, seminars and workshops. You’ll study independently as well, which helps you develop your research and critical skills. This will prepare you for taught sessions, where participation, presentation skills and group work are essential.

While encouraging you to become a self-motivated learner, we will guide you through your studies and help you to develop the skills you need to become an independent thinker.

You’ll also be assigned a personal tutor, who you’ll meet with regularly. They’ll offer guidance and support, helping with your academic and personal development and making sure you get the most out of your time at university.

Join our powerful learning network

You’ll engage with our Centre for Global Development, which brings together our Global Development teaching team, comprising academics who are leaders in their fields. Many have advised governments, NGOs and international organisations in their specialist areas, and have experience of living, researching and conducting fieldwork in the Global South.

You’ll have the chance to forge strong connections to active research centres across the University that are involved in teaching, researching and debating international development topics. You’ll could also engage with research bodies such as the Leeds Social Science Institute (LSSI) and the Leeds University Centre for African Studies (LUCAS).

Programme team

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Modules will use a variety of assessment methods. As well as traditional exams, you could also be asked to complete essays, projects based on case studies, policy briefs, group presentations, work logs, research briefs, project proposals or development agency reviews. In your final year you’ll also submit a dissertation.

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB

We do not require A-level Politics for courses in the School of Politics and International Studies.

We welcome applicants with a broad range of A-level subjects, including non-traditional subjects.

When an applicant is taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) this can be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A Levels, this would be BBB at A-level including grade A in the EPQ.

Alternative qualifications

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer:

• BBC at A level. Applicants must also meet the University’s GCSE matriculation standard and pass the Access to Leeds module.
• For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, we offer a foundation year for UK students who meet specific widening participation criteria. Learn more about the BA Social Science (foundation year).

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Students

If you are a mature applicant (over 21) and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Contact the Lifelong Learning Centre for more information. lifelonglearning@leeds.ac.uk

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information contact the School of Politics and International Studies admissions team.

International foundation year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications .

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: £27,300 (per year)

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2027/28 are £10,050.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement years on our tuition fees page.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Learn more about undergraduate funding.  

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below: 

 

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

Read our admissions guidance for common queries, information on how we will process your application, and advice on personal statements.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2027

This course is taught by

School of Politics and International Studies

Contact us

School of Politics and International Studies Admissions Team

Email: ugpolis@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

With this course, you’ll develop your in-depth knowledge of debates, approaches, strategies, politics and programmes in the field of global development.

You will also enhance your understanding of project design and management in the global development context, and hone your skills in research, analysis, qualitative and quantitative data, communication and decision-making in complex situations.

You’ll be well set up for a range of career paths, including:

• international development agencies
• international organisations
• governments
• political organisations
• non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
• research organisations
• policy-making organisations
• private companies
• the media
• academia

Our graduates have gone on to work in:

• UK or overseas NGOs
• research and consultancy firms
• international organisations such as the UN
• the Civil Service
• the media

Other graduates have also gone to pursue further study.

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.

Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go well beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change. 

• Dedicated Employability Team: Meet with our qualified careers consultants and specialist employability and placements officers, on hand to help you choose the right path and develop the skills to get there. They can support with CV and cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile building, mock interviews and navigating AI: get confident with tailored advice and techniques.  
• Employability and networking events: Get involved in a full range of events, including careers fairs and specialist industry talks with employers who are actively recruiting. You’ll also benefit from mentoring and a supportive careers community, helping you make connections, build your network, and shape your journey as a future professional. 
• Skills training: We embed transferable skills training in all our programmes to support your transition to the workplace. Gain expertise employers value, such as communication, problem-solving and research and data analysis. 
• MyCareer system: Access a dedicated portal where you can book careers appointments, view helpful resources and browse vacancies and events. Access digital tools, including LinkedIn support, video interview preparation, plus global job market and visa guidance. We also offer pre‑arrival support to help you prepare for career planning in the UK and make the most of your time with us. 
• Exclusive opportunities: Bring your enterprise to market with our award-winning business advice service, Spark. Apply for vacancies only available to our students. And hone your skills further with Leeds University Union, home to volunteering opportunities and over 300 clubs and societies. 

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world while gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects.

Semester abroad – exclusive to BA Global Development

You have the opportunity to spend a semester studying at one of our chosen partner universities in a developing country, as long as you achieve a minimum grade in Year 1. The modules you enrol on during this semester count towards your degree, meaning you don’t have to catch up on the modules you would have otherwise taken at Leeds.

While on the semester abroad, you could also get involved with volunteering and learn from local charitable organisations and NGOs to see first-hand the daily work and challenges that are part of running such organisations. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain experience of another culture and gain a new perspective to inform the rest of your studies.

Please note: the opportunity to spend a semester abroad is subject to availability at the time. On occasion, circumstances outside of the control of the University may require us to adapt our provision.

Optional study abroad year

From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, you can spend a year studying at one of our many University partners worldwide, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.

This programme offers you the option to spend time abroad as an extra academic year and will extend your studies by 12 months.

Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title upon completion, demonstrating your added experience to future employers.

Work placements

Make connections, practice skills and build confidence in your future with an industrial placement year as part of your course.

A work placement can be a great investment in your future:

• Choose from 100+ organisations in the UK and overseas.
• Build industry contacts within your chosen field.
• Be in direct contact with potential employers thanks to our close industry links.
• Advance your experience and skills by putting course teachings into practice.
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in your chosen industry.
• Improve your employability.
• All placements sourced by the University are paid positions.
• We also offer shorter-term placement opportunities.

Our Employability Team are here to help you every step of the way. They run several placement sessions to answer your questions, discuss available opportunities and support you with CV writing and interview preparation.

If you decide to undertake a placement year, your period of study will be extended by 12 months.

If your application is successful, during placement, you'll be supported by an industrial supervisor from within the company, plus an academic supervisor who will keep in touch throughout.

On successful completion of your placement year, you'll be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

Students in the Faculty of Social Sciences have recently completed placements at:

• The Walt Disney Company
• Just Rights for Children Nepal
• UK Parliament
• Volkswagen Group UK
• EDF
• Department for Work and Pensions
• Disney/National Geographic
• Pfizer UK

We can’t guarantee a work placement. The job market is competitive – and there may be competition for the placement you want. You’ll have to apply the same way you would for any job post, with your CV and, if successful, attend an interview with the organisation. That said, we encourage everyone to apply.