Taught Masters Courses

MA in International Development (MAID)

We attract students straight from academic degrees, from development agencies, from policy backgrounds as well as practitioners in health, government and international aid. Our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds, many having lived or worked in various parts of the world. The quality of the courses on offer and stimulating academic environment are common attractions for these students, while their international and trans-disciplinary background add another layer to the experience of development studies in Sheffield.

Leo Roberts MAID

Why did you choose your MA course and what did you enjoy?

I had been studying Human Geography at Sheffield, and had been developing an interest in issues surrounding inequality and poverty for a few years when I learned about the University of Sheffield’s MA-International Development programme. It seemed to offer everything I was interested in; primarily a deeper and more contextual knowledge of the key debates in international development, and various specific areas of interest I had. I was also aware that the Geography Department at the University of Sheffield has a reputation. I was hoping that the MA would provide me with a critical perspective of ‘development’ efforts to date.

Why did you choose Sheffield?

Sheffield is a fantastic place. It’s on the edge of the Peak District, which is great for outdoors activities, has a great and really diverse music scene, gets lots of blue-skied days (contrary to popular belief), and offers super-cheap beer.

How did the department support you?

Doing a masters in the Geography Department is fantastic. All the staff are incredibly helpful, offering guidance whenever needed, and on any subject (even if it’s outside the realms of International Development). Having leading members of the academic ID community on staff is also a great opportunity.

Mei Feng MAID

Where were you/what were you doing before coming to Sheffield?

I was working as the China/Program Officer in the Secretariat of Australia-China Environment Development Program (ACEDP) funded by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). Prior to this I had completed my BA in Foreign Languages and Literature.

Why did you apply for this course?

I felt it was relevant to my previous technical background and the placement module is unique and attractive and I was fortunate to gain funding from the Chevening Scholarship which is co-sponsored by the university.

What has been the highlight of the course?

The field trip to Kenya and the placement in Rome were both exciting and valuable experiences that can contributed to my academic and practical skills improvement as well as professional portfolio enhancement.

What has it been like studying here?

The department has a quiet and friendly environment.

What would be the one bit of advice you would give to someone coming to study at Sheffield?

To be prepared for academic pressure and look forward to self-improvement.

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Maz Robertson, MA International Development, 2009-2010

Maz Robertson What are you doing now/about to start doing?
I started working with a Ugandan-based NGO called Soft Power Education in January 2011 as a project manager on their Conservation Education Community Outreach Programme, bordering the Murchison Falls National Park in the northwest of the country.

Why did you choose this course?
After finishing my undergraduate degree I knew that 'development' was something that I wanted to pursue further, and spending time travelling really cemented this. I researched other Masters courses, some with a more specific focus and some that did not encompass a research project, but decided that the MA course that Sheffield offered a good theory/ practice balance and was broad enough to allow me to really discover my strengths and interests.

Why did you choose Sheffield?
I was particularly impressed that Sheffield's course aimed to help students gain professional experience, through the 'Dissertation with Placement' and 'Professional Skills for Development' modules. I had also studied as an undergrad at Sheffield (Geography BSc 2003-2006) and so knew about the great 'student experience' that the city offers, as well as being familiar with the department.

What were you doing before coming to Sheffield?
I had lived in Australia for a year on a working holiday visa, travelling, picking fruit, WWOOFing and volunteering on various conservation and community development projects.

What are your memories of your time in Sheffield?
I only have good memories, even those of working towards assignment deadlines I remember fondly for the spirit and camaraderie amongst my course mates. Particular highlights were the field class to Kenya, and of course the seven weeks I spent in Java, Indonesia on placement, working with an NGO and doing the research for my dissertation.

How has your degree helped your career development?
I feel that I have been incredibly fortunate to have found paid employment in my chosen field so soon after graduating, and with very little experience. I have no doubt that my Masters has made a huge difference to my employability, demonstrating that I am serious about working in the development field and my willingness to work to achieve this.

What advice would you give to potential students?
If you can afford it, go for it; having a Master's degree is never going to put you at a disadvantage. Then, try to really throw yourself into the course; it really is true that the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it.