Program Overview

Conflict, Security and Development MSc

The Conflict, Security and Development MSc is designed to prepare students to support and create peaceful governance in conflict areas by engaging with critical debates on accountability, human rights, and democratisation. This course will equip students with practical and academic expertise for impactful careers in international development, government, or NGOs.

Course Structure

This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode, with the option to undertake the programme on a part-time basis for Home students. Students will study 3 core modules completed by 3 to 4 optional modules, as well as a mandatory dissertation.

• First Term:
  • A 20-credit core module exploring key development theories, focusing on the economic, social, and political aspects of international development.
  • A combination of optional modules from the International Development, Politics, and International Relations areas.
• Second Term:
  • A 20-credit core module on Post Conflict Reconstruction & Development.
  • A combination of optional modules from the International Development, Politics, and International Relations areas.
• Summer Term:
  • A 60-credit dissertation.

Course Highlights

• International Focus: Specialise in conflict and governance issues in developing countries, aligning with global policy debates.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Study diverse fields such as human rights, corruption, and state-building for comprehensive understanding.
• Practical Experience: Benefit from overseas fieldwork opportunities, enhancing real-world skills in conflict analysis and management.
• Strong Support: Join an internationally well-regarded department where experienced and friendly faculty members will provide personalised guidance and support.

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham, students will need to meet the general entry requirements, as well as those specific to the course. The application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether the application should receive an offer.

• A good Honours degree or its equivalent in a relevant field.
• Standard Entry Requirements:
  • An upper second-class Honours degree or equivalent from an approved university or an equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field.
  • A lower second-class Honours degree from an approved university with excellent work experience.
  • Adequate capacity in written and spoken English.
• Degrees from all disciplines are considered, and a candidate's work experience can also be taken into consideration.

English Language Requirements

If the first language is not English, an IELTS Certificate is required.

• IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band.
• Equivalent qualifications:
  • TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing.
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills.
  • Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component.
  • LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill.

Fees and Scholarships

• Fees:
  • £12,150 (full-time).
  • £6,075 (part-time).
• Scholarships:
  • Postgraduate Masters loan.
  • Birmingham Masters scholarships.
  • Other scholarships and funding opportunities.

Application Process

To apply for a postgraduate programme, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online.

• Application Deadline: 28 August 2026 for UK and non-visa requiring applicants.
• How to Apply: Find out how to apply to postgraduate taught programmes.

Career Opportunities

This programme provides a framework for exploring academic synergies and for students to undertake genuinely interdisciplinary study. Students leaving this programme will be academically well-trained but also be in a position to undertake careers in conflict analysis, good governance, and management in the developing world.

• Careers Network: Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance, and opportunities at every step of studies.
• Graduate Employability: The University of Birmingham is the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers.