International Development Social Anthropology and Politics with Overseas Experience

International Development Social Anthropology and Politics with Overseas Experience at the University of East Anglia is a dynamic and comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of social, political, and cultural issues related to global development. This interdisciplinary course combines the study of social anthropology and politics, providing students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to analyze and engage with complex development challenges worldwide. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, ethnographic research, and policy analysis, preparing graduates for careers in international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions. Students will have the opportunity to gain practical experience through an integrated overseas placement, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world contexts and develop invaluable intercultural competencies. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including development theories, global governance, human rights, conflict resolution, and sustainable development, with an emphasis on understanding diverse cultural perspectives and social structures. The programme is designed to foster analytical skills, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to social justice, making it ideal for students passionate about making a positive impact globally. With access to dedicated faculty experts and extensive resources, students are supported throughout their academic journey, encouraging independent research, teamwork, and innovative thinking. Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for further postgraduate study or entry into careers focused on social development, policy analysis, humanitarian work, or international diplomacy. The University of East Anglia’s strong links with international development agencies and NGOs enhance the programme’s practical orientation and provide networking opportunities for students. Overall, this course offers a unique blend of academic rigour and real-world application, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to addressing the social and political challenges faced by communities around the world.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10550 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14400 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Students: £9,000. International Students: £12,300

• English

Course Content

A graduate of International Development is a rare but valued individual due to the many skills acquired through the degree that enable students to analyse, understand and explain diverse points of view; appreciate the complex dimensions of development problems; respect differences of opinion; and apply logic and objectivity in different situations. Many of our graduates are working with large Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), including Oxfam, Action Aid, Save the Children Fund, World Wildlife Fund, Water Aid, Global Vision and Concern.

Others decide to work for local or national government in the UK or overseas in a range of roles concerned with social and community care, economic development or urban regeneration, human rights and advocacy, environmental conservation, forestry and water resources. Our degrees can also be used as a qualification to enter journalism, management or teaching and a recent careers analysis of our International Development Undergraduates reflects this diversity, with alumni taking up a variety of posts. For example:

• Desk officer for DFID in the UK or overseas;
• Adviser in a think tank in London on social and economic issues;
• Community support officer in Wales, Kyrgyzstan or Nepal;
• Progress to study for a PhD;
• Researcher for senior academic or politician;
• Lecturer or school teacher;
• Scientist for an NGO such as WWF;
• Policy team for Education in an NGO such as Oxfam;
• Internship or overseas opportunities with ODI;
• Administrative officer for a development consultancy company leading to work overseas and career progression.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Candidates will be expected to have 3 A levels (see above for typical offer).
Candidates with equivalent qualifications to the A level requirement are encouraged to apply (eg International Baccalaureate; Access to Higher Education certificate). International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International section of our website.
Students should also have 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Mathematics.

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 18 in the Listening and Writing components; 19 in the Reading component; and 21 in the Speaking component)
• PTE: 62 overall with minimum 55 in all components

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

Funding

The University of East Anglia will be charging International students £11,700 for all full-time School of International Development undergraduate programmes which start in 2012.
The University offers around £1 million of Scholarships each year to support International students in their studies. Scholarships are normally awarded to students on the basis of academic merit and are usually for the duration of the period of study.

International Development Undergraduate Scholarships: All International undergraduate students who have applied to the School of International Development and have accepted their place by 31st May 2012 will be eligible to be considered for an International Development Scholarship on the basis of academic excellence. The awards which are available to those beginning the course in September 2012 will be:

• One Scholarship - £4,000 fees award per year for the duration of the course
• Two Scholarships - £3,000 fees award per year for the duration of the course
• Two Scholarships - £2,000 fees award per year for the duration of the course

Candidates do not need to complete a separate application form.

International Development Social Anthropology and Politics with Overseas Experience at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the social, political, and cultural dynamics that influence global development initiatives. This interdisciplinary programme combines theoretical approaches with practical skills, equipping graduates to analyze development issues critically and to contribute effectively to policy-making, research, and fieldwork in diverse international contexts. Throughout the course, students explore key topics such as social change, human rights, governance, and the impact of globalization on different communities worldwide. The programme emphasizes the importance of ethnographic research methods and encourages experiential learning through an overseas placement, allowing students to gain firsthand experience and develop a nuanced perspective on development challenges. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical thinking, intercultural competence, and a commitment to social justice, preparing students for careers in NGOs, government agencies, international organizations, and academic research. With faculty expertise spanning anthropology, politics, and development studies, students benefit from a multidisciplinary approach and access to a vibrant academic community. The programme also includes modules on political theory, development policies, and community engagement, ensuring that graduates have both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the field of international development. The overseas experience component is particularly valued, providing students with the opportunity to work in real-world settings, often in partnership with local organizations, NGOs, or government bodies, reinforcing the programme's focus on applied knowledge and cultural sensitivity. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking about development paradigms and to consider ethical implications and sustainability issues in their work. Upon completing this degree, graduates will be well-equipped to address complex development issues, fostering positive change and promoting social justice on a global scale.