Global Development

The world is at a turning point. In these times of uncertainty and change, this postgraduate diploma provides you with an advanced grounding in the key theories, approaches and issues that are shaping contemporary global development and the global challenges we face. Drawing on important social science ideas, it introduces a conceptual framework for making sense of development. It employs this framework to examine six major issues: migration, socio-economic security, environmental sustainability, technological innovation, the global politics of development, and the politics of doing development. You’ll also have the opportunity to deepen your knowledge and understanding of the issue or issues of most interest to you by exploring them through four cross-cutting global challenges: conflict, governance, justice, and transformation. The diploma therefore enables you to identify and pursue your own interests in development while also enhancing your skills of critical thinking and independent learning and investigation.

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits from the following:



Compulsory modules Credits



Stage 1

Understanding global development (DD870) 60



Stage 2

Key challenges in global development (DD871) 60



You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.



For module details please see "Course Web Page".

We recommend that you hold a UK bachelors degree (or equivalent), or have had experience of working in a development-related agency (international or local), in either a paid or voluntary capacity, prior to starting this qualification. However, these requirements are not compulsory and you will not be required to provide any supporting documentary evidence.



Your spoken and written English must be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum overall score of 6 and minimum score of 5.5 in each of the four components: reading, writing, speaking and listening under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Please see the IELTS website for details. If you’re not sure whether your English skills are good enough, there is some help and guidance at our Skills for OU Study website.

2 years part-time study



How long it takes

Most students study the Postgraduate Diploma in Global Management part-time, completing 60 credits a year over two years. Typically, this means 16–20 study hours each week.



You must complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Global Management within eight years.

See Course Web Page link for next start date.

Career relevance

Development scholars and practitioners are highly employable social scientists. They go on to a wide range of destinations after graduation, including:

• Development managers

• Aid workers

• Government policy makers

• Development consultants

• Business managers

• Environmental consultants

• Data analysis and visualisation using development techniques

• Transport planners

• Commercial analysts

• Financial services

• Field centre instructors

• Teachers



In addition, a significant number of postgraduate students choose to register for doctoral studies in a variety of specialised areas.