Birkbeck, University of London, CertHE, Development Studies

An interdisciplinary approach is adopted and students acquire an ability to understand the social effects of development processes and institutions on individuals, groups and communities at a local and national level; this is enhanced by case studies, critical evaluation of your own experiences and practical work; in various ways each module offers a critical evaluation of concepts of development and underdevelopment in different regions of the world; questions of power and inequality are explored by looking at wealth and poverty, the position of women, minority groups, age, disability and class, as well as the role of multinationals, the not-for-profit sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs); most tutors have fieldwork and project experience, integrating a conceptual understanding of the issues with a practical approach; students must successfully complete modules worth 120 CATS points; students with no prior knowledge of development are advised to start with module 1; students who have previously studied development or have relevant practical experience may start with module 2; students are advised to have completed 2 full modules (or equivalent) before taking module 6; students may also take 1 module from other specified related awards.