Poverty and Development

Poverty reduction is the ultimate measure of development effectiveness. Gain the knowledge and skills to engage professionally with the design, implementation and assessment of national and international efforts to reduce poverty in this Masters in Poverty and Development.

Through an interdisciplinary lens, you’ll gain a sound understanding of the main theories of development and poverty reduction in development, and a solid grounding in the concepts and skills needed to engage in debates on poverty and development.

World-leaders in development studies The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) delivers world-class research, learning and teaching that transforms the knowledge, action and leadership needed for more equitable and sustainable development globally. IDS is ranked first in the world for development studies, in partnership with the University of Sussex.

Who is the degree for? We welcome applicants with a broad range of career trajectories. Successful applicants will have some practical experience in development alongside an interest in critical academic enquiry. Most MA Poverty and Development students are experienced professionals, having worked in government, NGOs, bilateral and multilateral donor and lending agencies, UN programmes, the private sector, or civil society organisations. Many students join the course after a period of voluntary work or an internship.