International Development with a Year Abroad

International development is the study of how and why living standards, economic opportunities, and political freedoms differ so dramatically between and within countries, and what processes of change might address those inequalities. It draws on economics, political science, sociology, history, and geography to examine the forces that shape development trajectories: colonial legacies, trade regimes, governance, aid, migration, climate change, and the decisions of both governments and international institutions. It is a field that engages directly with some of the most important moral and political questions of our time.

At King's College London, this four-year full-time programme focuses in particular on middle-income and emerging economies, examining how countries that have achieved significant economic growth continue to grapple with profound challenges in equality, governance, social services and political stability. A year abroad is built into the programme, giving you the opportunity to study in a relevant country and to observe development processes directly from within the societies you have been studying. King's position in London, close to international organisations, policy institutions, NGOs and financial bodies engaged with development, provides exceptional access to the professional world of international development.

Graduates of International Development programmes work in international organisations such as the United Nations, World Bank and IMF, in bilateral and multilateral aid programmes, in NGOs and civil society organisations, in government and the civil service, in research and policy institutes, in journalism, and in international business and finance. Many pursue postgraduate study in development studies, international relations, economics, public policy, or law. The analytical breadth and global perspective that the degree develops are highly valued in any career with an international dimension.