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2023/24
2024/25

BSc International Development with a Placement Year

  • UCAS code
    L901
  • A level offer
    ABB
  • Year of entry
    2024/25 See 2023/24 entry
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  4 Years

Do you want to make a difference and understand how people and the planet are changing? Our BSc International Development course is a unique degree that offers expertise from across the University; you can specialise in the key areas that match your interests and work in careers with impact on a global scale.

The study of international development has never been more relevant or important. Complex global problems affect all our lives, as the world experiences rapid and uneven change. More people are moving out of poverty, but inequalities are also growing.

Through this course you will explore critical issues relating to poverty and unequal development, the sustainability of the planet’s resources, the politics of aid, and the future of our food systems. Optional modules from across the University allow you to tailor the course to your interests and preferred career path.

You will be taught by experts from departments across the University. In addition to social scientists in the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, these include experts from Geography, Economics, Politics and the Henley Business School. Many of our lecturers are members of the Global Development Division and research associates of the internationally renowned Walker Institute for Climate System Research and the Centre for Food Security.

Many students are keen volunteers and take the Reading Experience and Development (RED) Award scheme. You also have the opportunity to study a language as part of your course.

If you are interested in promoting causes related to international development it will definitely be worth joining the International Development society. Run by our students, it’s a place to discuss issues, watch documentaries and actually put your ideas into practise.

Placement

This degree includes an integrated, year-long work placement between your second and final year.

You could spend this year at an aid agency, charity, non-governmental organisation or relevant government department at home or abroad. The placement year provides first-hand experience in these fields, as well as transferable skills that will give you a competitive advantage in your future career.

You are also encouraged to consider a study abroad experience as part of your degree. The University has a wide range of exchange partners in Europe and across the world in Australia, Canada and the USA (subject to availability).

For more information about securing and completing a placement for your placement year, please visit our Important Information page.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250

New international students: £22,350

*UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Placement year fees

If you spend a full year on placement, you will only pay 15% of your usual tuition fee for that year. For more information, please see our fees and funding pages or contact placements@reading.ac.uk.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

This degree, and its placement year, provide an excellent starting point for a career in international development or wider opportunities.

The combination of natural and social sciences, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and experience of challenges in international development is highly relevant to careers in business, charities, aid agencies, government departments, and research institutions.

For those working in the international development sector it is typical to build up a portfolio of work experience and volunteering in the UK and overseas, in order to enhance your employability and career options. We therefore encourage students to engage with a range of opportunities at the University, such as the Undergraduate Research Programme scheme (UROP), student volunteering and placements. You can also write your research dissertation based on a real world practical or policy issue.