MSc Local Economic Development

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

This program equips students with the analytical tools and policy frameworks needed to design and implement local development strategies. It’s ideal for future urban planners, development consultants, policy advisors, and professionals working in government, NGOs, or international organisations.

Curriculum Structure

Michaelmas Term (Autumn)
Students begin with core theoretical and policy foundations. Modules like Local Economic Development and Planning and Economic Development Policy introduce key concepts in urban and regional development, governance, and institutional frameworks. You’ll also take Applied Quantitative Methods for Local Economic Development, which builds essential data analysis skills.

Lent Term (Spring)
The focus shifts to applied strategies and sectoral dynamics. Students explore modules such as Urbanisation and Economic Development and Cities and the Global Economy, examining the role of cities in global production networks and the challenges of urbanisation in developing contexts. Optional courses allow students to tailor their learning to specific interests, such as infrastructure, entrepreneurship, or sustainability.

Summer Term (Final)
Students complete a 6,000-word policy report or a 10,000-word dissertation, applying their learning to a real-world development challenge. This capstone project is supported by faculty supervision and draws on empirical data, policy analysis, and field insights.

Focus areas

Urban development, regional planning, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, global production networks, development policy

Learning outcomes

Students will design and evaluate local development strategies, apply quantitative and qualitative methods, and understand the institutional and spatial dimensions of economic development.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by LSE’s Department of Geography and Environment, the program is not professionally accredited but is highly respected by international organisations, development agencies, and consulting firms.

Reputation (employability rankings)

LSE ranks #2 globally for Geography (QS World University Rankings 2025) and consistently leads UK graduate employability rankings in the social sciences.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is designed for students who want to work directly on development strategies in cities, regions, and emerging economies. From policy labs to field-based research, students gain practical skills in planning, data analysis, and policy evaluation. LSE’s facilities and partnerships provide a dynamic environment for hands-on learning and applied development work.

Here’s how the program supports experiential learning throughout the year:

Applied Quantitative Methods for Local Economic Development: This core module trains students in using statistical software and data analysis techniques to evaluate development policies
Policy Report or Dissertation: Students choose between a 6,000-word policy report or a 10,000-word dissertation, applying their learning to a real-world development issue with faculty supervision
Group Seminars and Workshops: Modules such as Local Economic Development and Planning and Urbanisation and Economic Development include collaborative sessions focused on case studies and policy design
Software Access: Students use tools like Stata and ArcGIS for spatial analysis, economic modelling, and data visualisation
LSE Library: Offers access to specialised databases in urban studies, development economics, and planning, including OECD iLibrary and World Bank datasets
Digital Learning Environment: All students use Moodle for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and engaging in online discussions
Public Lectures & Events: Students attend high-profile talks hosted by the Department of Geography and Environment, featuring urban planners, economists, and development experts
Research Centres: Opportunities to engage with the Urbanisation Research Lab and LSE Cities, which host workshops, seminars, and field-based research projects
Career Services: LSE Careers provides tailored support including employer panels, internship listings, and guidance for roles in urban planning, development consulting, and international organisations

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program are equipped to design and implement development strategies in cities, regions, and emerging economies. Typical roles include Urban Development Consultant, Policy Advisor, Infrastructure Analyst, and Economic Development Officer. Many work with governments, international organisations, NGOs, and consulting firms.

Here’s how LSE supports your future beyond the classroom:

Career Services: LSE Careers offers tailored support including one-on-one guidance, employer networking events, and exclusive job boards for development and planning roles
Graduate Outcomes: 91% of LSE master’s graduates were employed or pursuing further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
Salary Figures: Graduates from LSE’s geography and development programs report competitive starting salaries, often exceeding £40,000 depending on sector and region
Industry Partnerships: LSE maintains strong links with organisations such as UN-Habitat, World Bank, OECD, and LSE Cities, offering students exposure to policy and planning environments
Long-Term Value: The LSE brand is globally recognised, offering long-term credibility for career advancement in development, urban planning, and policy consulting
Alumni Network: Graduates join a powerful global network of professionals working in urban development, infrastructure, and international policy

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates of the MSc Local Economic Development are well-prepared for PhD programs at LSE and other top universities worldwide. The program’s blend of policy analysis, spatial economics, and research training provides a strong foundation for doctoral study in urban planning, development economics, or regional policy.