The International Development BA at King’s College London explores the development process in middle-income countries and the evolving global economy. In this course, you'll examine how emerging economies address challenges across economic, social, and political dimensions. The first year introduces development studies, the history of the global economy, and analysis of emerging economies. The second year focuses on development theory, research methods, and includes a dissertation. Students can customize their pathway through a wide range of modules from economics, politics, sociology, and management, covering topics like climate change, poverty, social justice, and regional development. An optional year abroad at partner universities in countries like Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, or the U.S. allows for cultural immersion and global perspective enhancement. The course prepares students for careers in development sectors worldwide and emphasizes skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and project management.
Why this course is highly recommended
This program is ideal for students interested in understanding the complexity of development in emerging economies from a multidisciplinary perspective. It challenges Eurocentric viewpoints by incorporating a decolonised syllabus and offers a broad array of modules from economics to social sciences. The opportunity to study a variety of topics, alongside the flexibility of choosing modules and studying abroad, makes it a highly adaptable choice. The course’s ranking as 6th in the UK for Social Sciences (Times Higher Education 2024) underscores its quality and reputation in the field of social sciences.
Students can tailor their degree by choosing modules that focus on regions like Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East, or by concentrating on specific topics such as global value chains, social justice, or project management. The course offers flexibility to blend different areas or deepen knowledge in regions of personal interest during the second and third years. Additionally, students have options to include approved modules from other departments, allowing for further specialization according to career goals or academic interests.
Application fees
28.61L
1st year tuition fees
28.61L
Living cost
Applicants need to meet the entry requirement of AAA at A-level. The course is delivered full time over three years and can extend to four years if students choose the year abroad option. Full entry requirements, including any contextual details, are available through the university’s admissions process, emphasizing academic excellence as a key criterion.

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and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the King's College London admission page
for complete details.
Graduates can pursue roles in international development, policy, NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations. Recent employment includes positions such as consultants in economic and regional development, policy development within governments, and program officers at African think tanks. The course equips students with skills in analysis, research, project management, and cross-cultural communication, preparing them for diverse roles in the development sector both within the UK and internationally.