Educational Planning Economics and International Development

The MSc in Educational Planning, Economics and International Development at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate programme designed for individuals interested in understanding the complex interactions between education systems, economic development, and global policy frameworks. The programme combines rigorous academic training with practical insights, equipping students with the analytical skills necessary to formulate effective policies and strategies aimed at improving educational outcomes and promoting sustainable development worldwide. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including economic theories related to development, the role of education in economic growth, the evaluation of educational policies, and the socio-economic factors influencing access to quality education. The curriculum also emphasizes quantitative methods, research design, and data analysis to enable evidence-based decision-making. Taught by leading experts in the fields of economics, education, and international development, the programme encourages a multidisciplinary approach, fostering critical thinking and innovative problem-solving abilities. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through case studies, project work, and internships, tailored to prepare them for careers in policy analysis, international organizations, government agencies, and NGOs. The university’s strong global network and partnerships provide students with valuable exposure to international development challenges and opportunities. The MSc aims to produce graduates who can contribute effectively to policy formulation, research, and implementation, fostering positive social change and equitable development across diverse contexts. With a flexible structure, the programme is accessible to students from various backgrounds, whether recent graduates or professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in educational economics and development. By the completion of the MSc in Educational Planning, Economics and International Development, students are equipped with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical perspective necessary to lead initiatives that address global educational and developmental issues in an increasingly interconnected world.

This programme provides students with an opportunity to identify the interconnections between society and the economy, and the implications for educational planning, whilst applying economic principles to educational planning issues. It will also provide the opportunity to critique the ways in which economic analysis and evidence are applied to education policy issues, giving students an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of various approaches to educational planning.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of three core modules (90 credits), one optional module (30 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits), or two optional modules (60 credits) and a report (30 credits).

Core modules

• Economic Perspectives on Education Policy (EPEP)
• Education and International Development: Concepts, Theories and Issues (CTI)
• Planning for Education and Development (PED)

Optional modules

Modules are chosen from a wide range across the UCL IOE Master's-level offering and include:

• Education and Development in Asia
• Education, Conflict and Fragility
• Educational Testing
• Impact Evaluation Methods
• Statistical Analysis

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in either a report of 10,000 words or a dissertation of 20,000 words.

Teaching and learning

This programme is delivered by lectures, participant-led presentations, discussions based on selected readings, inputs by guest speakers, group work and debates. Some modules are available through online learning and may be studied remotely. Assessment is through coursework assignments and the dissertation/report.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an equivalent overseas qualification is required. Relevant experience of a minimum of six months living/working in a low or middle-income context/country and relating to educational planning, economics of education and/or international development is normally required. Applicants who do not meet these criteria may occasionally be considered on the basis of an excellent personal statement.

The financing studies of the MSc in Educational Planning, Economics and International Development at University College London (UCL) encompass a comprehensive overview of the financial aspects involved in pursuing the program. The total tuition fee for international students is approximately £24,800 per annum, while domestic students are typically charged around £11,000 per year. These fees are subject to annual adjustments and do not include additional costs such as living expenses, books, supplies, insurance, or other personal expenditures. Funding sources available to students include university scholarships, bursaries, and external funding from government and private organizations. UCL offers a range of scholarships specifically aimed at international students, which may cover partial or full tuition fees depending on the applicant’s academic merit and financial needs. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding opportunities such as Commonwealth Scholarships, Chevening Scholarships, or country-specific grants that support students pursuing studies in development and economics.

Students are also advised to plan for living costs, which in London can range between £12,000 and £18,000 per year, covering accommodation, transportation, food, and personal expenses. UCL’s student support services provide guidance on budgeting, financial planning, and employment opportunities. Many students opt to work part-time during their studies, adhering to visa regulations that typically permit up to 20 hours of work per week during term time. The program's duration is one year full-time, making the total cost of attendance including tuition and living expenses approximately £35,800–£42,800 for international students.

Financial aid applications usually open a year in advance, and prospective students are advised to prepare their documentation early. Loan schemes, both from government and private lenders, are also accessible for eligible students to help cover the costs. UCL’s financial planning resources include detailed guides on scholarship applications, budgeting tips, and advice on managing finances during studies. The university aims to make education accessible through these various funding options, but students are responsible for securing their own financial resources to cover tuition, fees, and personal expenses. Overall, prospective students should consider both the direct educational costs and the broader financial implications of studying in London, ensuring they have a solid plan to finance their education and living expenses throughout the duration of the program.

The MSc in Educational Planning, Economics and International Development at University College London is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and address educational challenges within a global development context. The program emphasizes the intersection of education, economics, and policy, aiming to prepare graduates for careers in international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions focused on educational development.

Students in this program will explore theories and methodologies related to educational planning and policy analysis, with a strong emphasis on economic principles and their application to education systems. The curriculum covers a diverse range of topics, including the economics of education, education sector analysis, policy evaluation, and development strategies. The program also incorporates modules on international development issues, providing a broader context for understanding the role of education in socio-economic progress.

The program is delivered through a mixture of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical project work, encouraging analytical thinking and real-world problem solving. Students will have the opportunity to engage with current research and policy debates, as well as to undertake independent research projects. The faculty includes leading experts in the fields of development economics, education policy, and international development.

Graduates of this MSc program will have strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of the economic and policy issues affecting education in developing countries, and the ability to design effective interventions and policies. Many alumni have gone on to work in international agencies such as UNESCO, World Bank, and various NGOs, or to pursue further academic research. The program also offers networking opportunities through guest lectures, conferences, and collaborations with practitioners in the field.

Admission to the program typically requires a relevant undergraduate degree, a strong interest in development, and analytical skills. The program is usually completed in one year of full-time study, with part-time options available in some cases. Overall, the MSc in Educational Planning, Economics and International Development aims to foster a new generation of professionals dedicated to improving educational systems and outcomes worldwide through informed research, policy analysis, and innovative solutions.