Development Policies and Politics (L2132S)

15 credits, Level 4

Spring teaching

This module introduces you to the evolution of international development as a global project from its post-Second World War origins to present day. It gives you a broad understanding of the evolution of the main features of the international policy framework that governs development interventions at the global level. You’ll also explore the paradigms that underpin development strategy.

We map out key moments – of innovation, crisis and reinvention – in that evolution and shifts in thinking that underpin changes in global development agendas. We identify the main characteristics and consequences of each policy agenda. And we examine alternative ways of understanding their evolution and results, considering:

• have these shifts enhanced global prosperity, wellbeing and stability?
• have these results reduced poverty, inequality and insecurity?
• who has benefitted from them, and who has been disadvantaged?

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 20 hours of contact time and about 130 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2025/26. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.