Global Development, Politics and Sociology Postgraduate Study
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Global Development, Politics and Sociology Postgraduate Study
It used to be enough to understand the world, now we need to change it.
Our postgraduate courses in Global Development, Politics and Sociology are designed to be stimulating and thought-provoking. We aim to equip you with the necessary tools to address the complex challenges of human rights, poverty, forced migration, climate change, and more. We delve into the underlying factors driving these changes, exploring key concepts, theories, and approaches used in the field of social science and global studies. Through classroom learning and research projects, students are given many opportunities to develop their critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities.
You will also gain valuable hands-on experience through internships and placements, which allow you to take your theoretical knowledge out of the classroom and into a real-world setting. In addition to lectures and seminars, you will also benefit from the chance to attend and participate in workshops and conferences. These events provide a platform for our vibrant research community to broaden their knowledge, inspire one another, and present their ideas in a public forum.
Alumna inspiring the refugee community
Alumna Tamana Safi fights for girls and women to be able to access education. This International Women's Day, she reflects on receiving her own refugee status, exactly one year on following a three-year long wait after she fled Kabul with her family in 2018.
Read more about Tamana's storyAbout us
You will be taught by a team of highly accomplished academic staff who are not only renowned experts in their respective fields but actively involved in innovative research regarding the key issues of our increasingly globalised world and its challenges. We offer comprehensive guidance and support to our students throughout each module, providing them with constructive feedback and valuable advice on their ideas. Our courses are designed to prepare students to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields and make a positive impact on society, and graduates will be equipped with the necessary research skills and expertise to excel in their careers and tackle various scenarios in diverse sectors. This includes working with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to raise awareness about neglected aspects of society, as well as collaborating with local and national governments to help them understand the impact of policy decisions.
Why choose us?
Our graduates have gone on to secure positions with industry-leading organisations like Medecins Sans Frontieres, The Refugee Council, the World Health Organisation, and the British Red Cross. We also have an extensive network of alumni and professional contacts which allows us to facilitate placement opportunities in government, NGOs, and development agencies.
Docklands Library is home to the Refugee Council Archives — a valuable resource offering in-depth knowledge on the flight, exile, and displacement of refugees, as well as insight into the daily lives of their communities.
Our MSc in NGO and Development Management is accredited by The International Accreditation Council for Global Development Studies and Research — the gold standard for postgraduate training in Global Development.
What we're researching
We are actively researching prominent issues such as refugee rights, digital diasporas, fair trade and wellbeing, gender power dynamics in conflict, and more. Our goal is to drive positive social change in our areas of interest — and beyond — through our research initiatives. Our team of accomplished academics have established networks in key development regions across Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, Europe, and the Western Balkans, allowing us to offer regional expertise. Additionally, our research groups and centres regularly host seminars and events, creating opportunities for postgraduate students to participate and join our dynamic research community.
Career
Our graduates have spearheaded numerous initiatives that have transformed communities in the UK and around the world. From establishing their own NGOs to providing essential humanitarian aid to those in need and raising significant funds for charitable foundations, our graduates have made a meaningful impact on society.
Our people-centred approach to education will prepare you for a rewarding career in the fields of Global Development, Politics, and Sociology. We place a strong emphasis on human welfare and hands-on learning to prepare you for a diverse and fulfilling career with a variety of organisations including advisory firms, governmental bodies, local councils, and non-profit organisations.
Careers at UEL
Our dedicated Careers team works closely with employers to provide up-to-date information about the skills and experience they're looking for. They will support you during your studies and after you graduate.
At UEL, you'll have access to:
- Employability skills training such as interview techniques and CV writing.
- Career Assessment, allowing you to learn about yourself and Career Coach will help you to discover career suggestions based on your interests.
- UEL Skills Academy, where external professionals deliver sessions on the competencies most prized by graduate employers.
- Internships, placements and volunteering opportunities from our work placements team.
- Professional mentoring scheme, matching students with staff from major companies.
- Networking opportunities and annual careers fair.
- Support with setting up your own business.
Career coach
Use our online Career Coach to find out the different career paths your chosen subject area can lead you to. Get information on specific careers, job roles, potential wages and available jobs in the sector. Or take a quick quiz to find a career to match your personality type!
Our location
Our location in one of Europe's largest regeneration areas and our extensive links to local employers will also give you access to fantastic internships and placements. From heavy industry to high-tech, health and social care to the arts, there are so many opportunities right on our doorstep.
Our staff
Find out more about our staff by visiting our School of Education and Communities page.
Postgraduate courses
MSc NGO and Development Management
This course examines the central issues facing developing countries in today's globalised world, equipping you for a job in development and the wider sectors.
Read more about this course
MSc International Relations
Understand global politics, state and inter-state relations. Delve into international relations, global inequalities, power and environmental risks.
Study International Relations
MA Refugee Studies
Understand global refugee movements, the processes behind the search for protection and asylum and the global responses to forced displacement.
Study MA Refugee Studies
MA Conflict, Displacement and Human Security
We will help you develop skills and understanding to prepare for employment in conflict management and resolution, humanitarian assistance and development, human rights, and social justice.
Read more about this course