Development Economics MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Sussex

Program Overview

The University of Sussex’s MSc Development Economics is a policy-oriented, applied master’s designed for students who want to tackle global challenges like poverty, inequality, and economic growth. You’ll gain rigorous training in micro- and macroeconomics, econometrics, and development theory — ideal preparation for roles in government, international organisations, or further academic study.

Curriculum Structure

Autumn Term (Core Foundations):
You’ll begin with a strong foundation in analytical and quantitative methods. Core modules include Analytical Methods in Economics, Development Microeconomics, Econometric Methods 1, and Microeconomic Analysis. These build your ability to model development challenges, interpret data, and apply economic theory to real-world contexts.

Spring Term (Advanced Applications):
This term focuses on macroeconomic policy and advanced econometrics. You’ll study Development Macroeconomics, Econometric Methods 2, Macroeconomic Analysis, and Research Methods for Economics. These modules prepare you to evaluate policy interventions and conduct independent research using real-world data.

Summer Term (Dissertation):
You’ll complete a dissertation in economics, with the option to undertake a placement. This allows you to apply your skills to a real-life challenge faced by an organisation, gaining experience in project development, teamwork, and client communication.

Focus Areas

Development microeconomics, development macroeconomics, econometrics, policy evaluation, poverty and inequality, economic growth.

Learning Outcomes

Design and evaluate policy, frame complex development challenges, communicate technical analysis, apply ethical standards, and lead diverse teams.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Offered by the EQUIS and AMBA-accredited University of Sussex Business School — placing it among the world’s leading business education providers.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Ranked 1st globally for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
91% of Sussex postgraduates completed work experience by graduation (Career Readiness data 2023/24)
Recent graduates have joined the UK Government Economics Service, United Nations, World Bank Group, and Oxford Policy Management

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is designed to help you apply economic theory to real-world development challenges through hands-on research, policy analysis, and practical engagement. You’ll work with real datasets, collaborate on group projects, and have the option to undertake a placement as part of your dissertation. The university’s facilities and research centres offer a rich environment for applied learning and global impact.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the program:

Option to complete a placement-based dissertation with an external organisation, applying your skills to a live development issue
Access to real-world datasets and econometric software for policy evaluation and data analysis
Group projects and collaborative assignments that simulate professional development work
Research-led teaching from faculty affiliated with the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), ranked 1st globally for Development Studies
Use of the Sussex Research Hive and Library, offering dedicated postgraduate study spaces and access to global development journals
Opportunities to engage with the Centre for International Education and the Centre for Global Political Economy

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this applied, policy-oriented program are well-prepared for careers in international development, economic consultancy, government, and research. Many go on to work as development economists, policy analysts, research officers, or monitoring and evaluation specialists. Sussex alumni have joined organisations such as the UK Government Economics Service, United Nations, World Bank Group, and Oxford Policy Management.

Here’s how Sussex supports your next steps:

Access to the Careers and Entrepreneurship team, offering tailored support including CV and interview coaching, employer networking events, and sector-specific career guidance
91% of Sussex postgraduates completed work experience by graduation (Career Readiness data 2023/24)
Strong links with the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), ranked 1st globally for Development Studies, offering exposure to cutting-edge research and policy networks
The Business School is EQUIS and AMBA accredited, placing it among the world’s leading business education providers
Graduates from Sussex’s development programs have gone on to work in government ministries, NGOs, think tanks, and international financial institutions

Further Academic Progression:
This MSc provides a strong foundation for doctoral study in development economics, public policy, or interdisciplinary research. You’ll be well-prepared to pursue a PhD at Sussex or other leading institutions, especially if you choose a dissertation topic aligned with global development priorities.