BA International Development and Politics

One of the best things about studying International Development and Politics at Birmingham is that you won’t just sit in lectures — you’ll actually get to put your learning into practice. From overseas research opportunities to working with NGOs and development specialists, this degree is designed to give you the kind of hands-on experience that employers in this field really value. You’ll be encouraged to step outside the classroom, test ideas in real-world settings, and build skills that translate directly into your career.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Work placements and projects – In your second year, you can take on a professional placement, giving you a taste of how development and political organisations operate day to day. Many modules also use live case studies and project-based learning.

• Fieldwork abroad – For your dissertation, you’ll have the chance to carry out fieldwork overseas with financial support, collecting your own data and learning how to conduct real development research.

• Direct input from NGOs and experts – Modules are often co-delivered with practitioners; for example, Islamic Relief leads on disaster management, and Responding to Conflict contributes to teaching on humanitarian aid and reconstruction.

• Guest talks and seminar series – Regular events bring in professionals from major NGOs, giving you first-hand insight into current debates and challenges in the sector.

• Study visits – You’ll take part in visits that connect your classroom knowledge to real political and development contexts.

• World-class resources – From Birmingham’s libraries (over 2 million resources) to modern teaching and learning spaces, you’ll have access to facilities that support in-depth research and collaboration.

• Research-driven teaching – You’ll benefit from being taught in one of the UK’s leading Development Studies departments, ranked 3rd in the country for research impact (REF 2021).

All of this means that by the time you graduate, you’ll have more than just academic knowledge — you’ll have the practical skills, professional insight, and international perspective that make you stand out.

Graduates from this programme step into a wide range of exciting careers where they can make a real difference. Many move into roles like Policy Analyst, International Development Consultant, Diplomatic Service Officer, or Programme Coordinator with NGOs, charities, and government organisations. Employers value Birmingham graduates because the degree blends academic depth with hands-on experience, making you stand out in a competitive job market.

Here’s what supports your career journey at Birmingham:

• Dedicated Careers Network – You’ll have access to one-to-one career coaching, CV reviews, mock interviews, internships, and volunteering opportunities to help you secure roles in development, politics, and beyond.

• Employment Success – More than 90% of Birmingham graduates go into work or further study within six months. Politics and International Relations graduates report average starting salaries of around £28,000, with strong growth in the years that follow.

• Employer Connections – Birmingham is the #1 most targeted university by top UK graduate employers, so you’ll regularly meet recruiters through career fairs, networking sessions, and on-campus events.

• Practical Experience Built In – Your course includes opportunities for study visits, field projects, and optional work placements, connecting you directly with development agencies and policy organisations.

• Strong Global Reputation – As a Russell Group university ranked #3 in the UK for Development Studies research impact, your degree carries international recognition and long-term professional value.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re keen to keep building your expertise, many graduates continue to postgraduate study. Popular routes include an MSc in International Development, MA in Development Studies, or research degrees like an MPhil/PhD in Politics or Development. With Birmingham’s world-class research centres and global partnerships, you’ll be well supported to take your studies to the next level.