BA (Hons) Global Development with Politics with a Year Abroad

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of East Anglia

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Global Development with Politics with a Year Abroad at UEA gives you a unique chance to understand the world’s biggest challenges, from poverty and inequality to conflict and climate change. It’s perfect for curious students who want to explore how politics shapes societies globally and make a real-world impact through thoughtful analysis and action.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations

In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the basics of global development and political systems. Core modules like Understanding Politics Today and Power, (Dis)Order & Security: Understanding Global Politics 1 introduce how governments and global institutions operate, while Rights & Wrongs: An Introduction to Social and Political Theory helps you think critically about justice, rights, and ethics.

Year 2: Developing Skills

Year two focuses on building analytical and research skills. You’ll explore theories of international relations in Analysing International Relations: From Realism to Postcolonialism, learn essential quantitative skills in Introduction to Data Analysis for Politics and International Relations, and examine relationships between states and citizens in States, Institutions and Citizens. Optional modules let you focus on areas that spark your interest.

Year 3: Year Abroad

The third year is your chance to study at one of UEA’s partner universities around the world. Living and learning in a new country gives you a fresh perspective, strengthens your independence, and enhances your academic and cultural experience. You’ll take relevant modules abroad to continue developing your expertise.

Year 4: Specialization & Dissertation

In your final year, you’ll dive deeper into topics that interest you through advanced modules like Politics and Popular Culture and Better Worlds? Utopias and Dystopias. You’ll also complete a dissertation or research project, allowing you to carry out independent research and showcase your critical thinking skills.


Focus Areas

Global development, politics, international relations, social justice, conflict resolution, research methods, and cultural perspectives.


Learning Outcomes

Graduates leave with a solid understanding of global issues and political structures, along with strong analytical, research, and communication skills. You’ll be able to assess complex challenges critically and contribute to solutions in both local and international contexts.


Professional Alignment

This degree prepares you for careers in NGOs, government bodies, international organizations, or further academic study. With practical skills and a global outlook, you’ll be ready to make an impact in fields related to politics, development, and policy.


Reputation

UEA is highly regarded for global development studies and consistently ranks among the top UK universities. You’ll benefit from excellent teaching, research-led learning, and strong support to prepare you for success in the real world.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UEA, studying Global Development with Politics isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—you’ll gain hands-on experience that prepares you for the real world. From your first year, you’ll get opportunities to work on collaborative projects, conduct research, and explore political and development issues through practical activities. The program’s facilities, digital tools, and connections make sure you can turn theory into practice while building skills that employers value.

Here’s how you’ll put your learning into action:

  • Study Abroad: Spend your third year at a partner university anywhere in the world, gaining international experience and a broader perspective on global issues.

  • Internships and Work Placements: Get real-world experience in NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations, helping you apply classroom learning to practical situations.

  • Group Projects: Collaborate with fellow students on projects that mirror real-world challenges, building teamwork and problem-solving skills.

  • Research Opportunities: Work in UEA’s research centers and access dedicated resources to carry out your own independent or guided research projects.

  • Field Trips and Site Visits: Visit organizations, community initiatives, and development projects to see theory in action.

  • Specialized Software and Tools: Use industry-standard digital tools to analyze data, evaluate policies, and conduct research effectively.

These experiences are designed to make you confident, skilled, and ready to step straight into a career in global development, politics, or further study.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from UEA’s BA (Hons) Global Development with Politics with a Year Abroad are equipped to tackle global challenges and make a real-world impact. With a strong understanding of development issues and political systems, alumni often move into careers such as:

  • Policy Analyst

  • International Development Consultant

  • Humanitarian Program Officer

  • Advocacy and Campaign Manager

These roles can be found in top organizations including the United Nations, Oxfam, the British Red Cross, and a variety of government and NGO agencies.

Support from UEA to Boost Your Employability:

  • Careers and Employability Service: Receive tailored guidance on CVs, applications, and interviews.

  • Global Development Placement Year: Gain 9–12 months of hands-on experience in a real-world organization during your third year.

  • Study Abroad Opportunities: Expand your global perspective and strengthen your professional profile through international study.

Employment & Outcomes:

  • 95% of UEA graduates secure employment or further study within 15 months of finishing their course (Graduate Outcome Survey 2020).

  • Skills gained in research, policy analysis, and practical placements are highly valued in the development and political sectors.

Industry Connections:

  • Internships and projects with international NGOs, government agencies, and research institutes provide practical experience and networking opportunities.

Reputation & Accreditation:

  • UEA is ranked 1st in the UK for Development Studies (Times Higher Education REF 2021) and 11th worldwide (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023), highlighting the global recognition and credibility of your degree.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BA, you can continue to:

  • Master’s Degrees in International Development, Global Studies, or Political Science

  • PhD Programs for advanced research in development or politics

  • Professional Certifications to enhance specialist skills for your chosen career path

This program not only equips you with knowledge but also the practical experience, global exposure, and support network to step confidently into a meaningful career in global development or politics.

Program Key Stats

£23,100
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


79 %

Eligibility Criteria

AAB
3.5
33
70

NA
NA
6.0
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Policy Analyst
  •  International Development Consultant
  •  Humanitarian Program Officer
  •  Advocacy and Campaign Manager
  •  Research Associate
  •  Community Development Officer
  •  International Relations Officer

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