Economics and International Development (2013 entry)

BA, 3 years, UCAS: LL19
Typical A level offer: AAB

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Subject overview

Why international development?

The study of international development has never been more popular or more important, with the world’s richest nations committed to halving world poverty by 2015, and many poor countries themselves experiencing rapid economic growth. A degree in international development will train you to work in this burgeoning field, but also to understand the different visions of what ‘development’ can mean, and the many challenges to reducing poverty and inequality. 

The field of international development is concerned not only with economic growth, but also with social and cultural transformation and moral and religious values. It also increasingly interacts with environmental change: economic development is a major contributor to carbon emissions, yet some of the world’s poorest people are the most vulnerable to climate change.

Why international development at Sussex?

Our reputation: Sussex is one of the largest and longest-established centres of international development expertise in the world. Researchers from the Departments of Anthropology, Geography, International Relations, Economics, Sociology, and History all contribute to the degree courses. International development at Sussex was ranked 8th (88 per cent) for overall satisfaction in the 2012 National Student Survey (NSS).

Excellent teaching: our teaching encourages critical thinking and analysis. Lectures and seminars are complemented by activities that reflect many of the challenges of working in international development.

Excellent research: in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), on average 95 per cent of the research by faculty contributing to our degree programmes was rated as recognised internationally or higher.

Career opportunities: by encouraging intellectual curiosity and cultural agility, the School of Global Studies, in which you will be based, enhances your employability (British Council and Think Global: Survey of Senior Business Leaders, 2011).

A great learning environment: our students are very active, both within and beyond the classroom. We support student initiatives such as the Student Development Society, student-organised seminars, and both international and local voluntary work. Our global perspective is reflected in the fact that our students come from around the world.

Overseas opportunities: Sussex encourages time overseas as part of your course. We have links with universities in China, Singapore, Mexico and India, among others. The Nicola Anderson bursary, awarded competitively to international development students, provides financial support for overseas projects. Work placements and study abroad opportunities are offered in your second year of study. 

Why economics?

Addressing many of the world’s problems and issues requires an understanding of economics. Why are some countries so rich and others so poor? Should Microsoft be broken up? Should the private sector be involved in providing health and education? Could environmental taxes help reduce global warming? What is the future of the euro?

Economics provides a framework for thinking about such issues in depth, allowing you to get to the heart of complex, topical problems. The methods of economics can be applied to a wide range of questions and will prove useful to you in your future career. In addition, the study of economics teaches you a variety of practical skills, including the ability to use and evaluate evidence (often statistical) in order to arrive at sound conclusions.

Why economics at Sussex?

In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 100 per cent of our economics research was rated as recognised internationally or higher, and 60 per cent rated as internationally excellent or higher. 

We emphasise the practical application of economics to the analysis of contemporary social and economic problems.

We have strong links to the major national and international economic institutions such as the European Commission, the World Bank and the Department for International Development.

The Department has strong research clusters in labour markets and in development economics, and is one of Europe’s leading centres for research on issues of international trade.

We offer you the chance to conduct an economics research project supervised by a faculty member.

Programme content

This degree is a natural choice for those interested in applying economic tools to developing-country issues (eg how should we manage Third World debt?). This area is currently the subject of much research and active (and sometimes acrimonious) debate. The meetings of the WTO, World Bank and IMF have become a regular focus for protesters concerned about the effects of globalisation upon developing countries. Economics provides a powerful framework for thinking about the issues raised in international development. 

The international development component offers modules in theories of development, the history of developing countries and a wide range of options such as aid to developing countries, development within the international economy, and culture and gender.

We continue to develop and update our modules for 2013 entry to ensure you have the best student experience. In addition to the course structure below, you may find it helpful to refer to the 2012 modules tab.

How will I learn?

Lectures and seminars are combined with workshops and tutorials. You will develop your ability to work independently and to communicate your ideas through essays and presentation. Faculty also make use of new technologies, making slides, video and audio resources available through dedicated e-learning module websites. Assessment includes exams and project and coursework, as well as end-of-module essays and, in the third year, dissertations.

At Sussex, the scheduled contact time you receive is made up of lectures, seminars, tutorials, classes, laboratory and practical work, and group work; the exact mix depends on the subject you are studying. This scheduled contact time is reflected in the Key Information Set (KIS) for this course. In addition to this, you will have further contact time with teaching staff on an individual basis to help you develop your learning and skills, and to provide academic guidance and advice to support your independent study.

For more information on what it's like to study at Sussex, refer to Study support.

What will I achieve?

  • knowledge and understanding of the key development challenges facing poor people and countries
  • familiarity with a range of disciplinary approaches to the major issues facing the ‘Global South’, including analytical skills from anthropology, history, geography, international relations and economics
  • ability to use research knowledge and understanding in the development of practical policy approaches to reduce poverty and inequality
  • confidence in presenting your own ideas as well as those of others
  • the ability to work collaboratively in a group setting, organise your time effectively and work under pressure.

Core content

Year 1

You are introduced to a range of perspectives on development and to a constellation of development actors – from international organisations to local NGOs. You also learn about the significance of colonialism in understanding contemporary development policy and the contribution of key thinkers to our understanding of development. You consider some of the current issues and dilemmas in development and learn first-hand about your teachers’ experiences with these issues and dilemmas. 

Year 2 

You explore social and economic dimensions of development in more depth and receive training in the techniques and skills used by development researchers in the field. You also choose from a range of options and have the opportunity to spend part of this year on a placement or study abroad.  

Year 3

You expand on what you have learnt in the first two years, and have the opportunity to pursue specialist options to deepen your theoretical and practical understanding of development in practice. Options cover a range of development issues and address the real-world concerns faced by those who work in development. You also have the opportunity for intensive study for your thesis.

We continue to develop and update our modules for 2013 entry to ensure you have the best student experience. In addition to the course structure below, you may find it helpful to refer to the 2012 modules tab.

How will I learn?

The core ideas and analytical techniques are presented in lectures and supplemented by classes or workshops where you can test your understanding and explore the issues in more depth. These provide the opportunity for student interaction, an essential part of the learning process at Sussex. The more quantitative skills, such as using statistical software, are taught in computer workshops. On the dissertation module in the final year, you receive one-to-one supervision as you investigate your chosen research topic in depth.

Formal assessment is by a range of methods including unseen exams and coursework. In addition there are regular assignments, which allow you to monitor your progress. In the first year, you have regular meetings with your academic advisor to discuss your academic progress and to receive feedback on your assignments.

At Sussex, the scheduled contact time you receive is made up of lectures, seminars, tutorials, classes, laboratory and practical work, and group work; the exact mix depends on the subject you are studying. This scheduled contact time is reflected in the Key Information Set (KIS) for this course. In addition to this, you will have further contact time with teaching staff on an individual basis to help you develop your learning and skills, and to provide academic guidance and advice to support your independent study.

For more information on what it's like to study at Sussex, refer to Study support.

What will I achieve?

  • a detailed knowledge and understanding of the principles of economics
  • the skills to abstract the essential features of a problem and use the framework of economics to analyse it
  • the ability to evaluate and conduct your own empirical research
  • the confidence to communicate economic ideas and concepts to a wider audience
  • a range of transferable skills, applicable to a wide variety of occupations.

Core content

Year 1

You are introduced to the principles of economics and their application to a range of practical and topical issues. The aim is not to look at economic theory in isolation but to learn how it is used to analyse real issues. You also take a mathematics module, giving you some of the tools you need to understand contemporary economics. 

Year 2

You develop your understanding of economics principles through the study of more advanced topics such as trade and risk. You also take a statistics module and learn how to analyse and interpret data. In addition, there are more applied modules, allowing you to see how the subject deals with empirical issues. There are opportunities for small research projects, including a group project.

Year 3

You have the opportunity to choose from a range of options such as labour or development economics. These modules go into the relevant issues in greater depth, giving you a high level of expertise. There is the opportunity to do a sustained piece of research on a chosen topic. You can also take more advanced quantitative modules – useful if you wish to do postgraduate work.

Please note that these are the modules running in 2012.

Back to module list

Colonialism and After

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1

This module is an introduction to a range of key historical problems and conceptual questions relating to the colonial and postcolonial experiences. Focusing on the characteristics of capitalism, imperialism, and modernity, the module examines the making of the modern world. It provides an introduction to European expansion, the slave economy, the development of wage labour, industrial growth, imperialism, creation of the modern state, genocide, the idea of development, anticolonialism, and the creation of the `third world'.

International Development: Ideas and Actors

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1

This module offers an introduction to key ideas and actors in international development. It begins by considering what the term "development" means, exploring a range of different interpretations and the different kinds of practices that are associated with the idea of development. It goes on to look at trends in development thinking, and from there to identify a series of ideas and actors who have been influential in shaping international development thinking, policy and practice. By looking at the kinds of ideas about development associated with different kinds of actors, and at debates about aid, development and social change, the module will give you an overview of the field of international development and put in place some of the foundations for subsequent development modules.

Introduction to Economics

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of economics. The first half of the course deals with microeconomic issues including the behaviour of individuals and firms, their interaction in markets and the role of government. The second half of the course is devoted to macroeconomics and examines the determinants of aggregate economic variables, such as national income, inflation, and the balance of payments, and the relationships between them. This course also provides students with a basic introduction to mathematical economics, covering solving linear equations, differential calculus, and discounting.

 

Introduction to Mathematics for Finance and Economics

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1

This module introduces you to the basic mathematical methods and techniques used in economic analysis, and will enable you to use these skills independently and with confident. These skills also have a transferable content and are useful in other disciplines and applications.

Issues in Development

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1

The aim of the module is to provide you with an overview of international development using key topics to explore the different theoretical and conceptual perspectives that underpin understandings of development. The module is not a comprehensive review of all development-related issues but instead focuses on a smaller set of issues in development, covering amongst other matters, topics of poverty, international trade, growth, population, environment, aid and debt.

Key Thinkers in Development

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1

This module provides an introduction to some of the most important thinkers in international development. It provides a broad historical overview of the evolution of development thinking by starting with key debates initiated in the 18th and 19th centuries and moving to contemporary thinkers from diverse geographical regions. Each week, you will read an original text from the key thinker discussed, as well as an additional supporting/critical text. Above all else the module aims to provide you with a broad understanding of different approaches to development thinking, why they arose and their current applicability in the age of globalisation.

Macroeconomics 1

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1

This module introduces core short-run and medium-run macroeconomics. First we study what determines demand for goods and services in the short run. We introduce financial markets and outline the links between financial markets and demand for goods. The Keynesian IS-LM model encapsulates these linkages.

Second, we switch to the medium-term supply-side. We bring together the market for labour to the price-setting decisions of firms in order to build an understanding of how inflation and unemployment are determined. Last, the supply side and the IS-LM model are combined to produce a full medium-term macroeconomic model.

Microeconomics 1

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1

This module develops consumer and producer theory, examining such topics as consumer surplus, labour supply, production and costs of the firm, alternative market structures and factor markets. It explores the application of these concepts to public policy, making use of real-world examples to illustrate the usefulness of the theory.

Advanced Macroeconomics

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

The module completes the macroeconomics sequence, starting with a consideration of the policy implications of rational expectations. The macroeconomy is then opened up to international trade and capital movements: the operation of monetary and fiscal policies and the international transmission of disturbances under fixed and flexible exchange rates are contrasted, and the issues bearing on the choice of exchange-rate regime are explored. The major macroeconomic problems of hyperinflation, persistent unemployment and exchange-rate crises are examined. The module concludes by drawing together the implications of the analysis for the design and operation of macroeconomic policy.

 

Advanced Microeconomics

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

This module covers the topics of general equilibrium and welfare economics, including the important issue of market failure. General equilibrium is illustrated using Sen's entitlement approach to famines and also international trade. Welfare economics covers concepts of efficiency and their relationship to the market mechanism. Market failure includes issues such as adverse selection and moral hazard, and applications are drawn from health insurance, environmental economics and the second-hand car market.

 

Macroeconomics 2

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2

This module is concerned with two main topics. 'The long run' is an introduction to how economies grow, gradually raising the standard of living, decade by decade. Once we have the basic analysis in place, we can begin to explain why there are such huge disparities in living standards around the world. 'Expectations' is a deepening of the behavioural background to modelling, saving and investment decisions, emphasising the intrinsically forward-looking nature of saving and investment decisions and analysing the financial markets which coordinate these decisions.

Microeconomics 2

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2

This module develops the economics principles learned in Microeconomics 1. Alternative market structures such as oligopoly and monopolistic competition are studied and comparisons drawn with perfect competition and monopoly. Decision-making under uncertainty and over multiple time periods is introduced, relaxing some of the restrictive assumptions made in the level 1 module. The knowledge gained is applied to such issues as investment in human capital (eg education), saving and investment decisions, insurance and criminal deterrence.

Research Skills for Development

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2

This module is an introduction to the research methods, techniques and skills used in development research and provides a foundation for the International Development thesis in the third year. The module is taught through workshops during which you focus on practical issues to do with research skills, as well as consider some of the more abstract issues that inform how we do research. The module encourages you to think about research ethics and the linkages between project design and methods of data collection.

Development and the State

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

This module is concerned with the role of the state in development. It considers this subject matter  theoretically - that is, by exploring debates in state theory, and on the relationship between the state and development - empirically, by investigating a range of historical and contemporary state forms and the impacts of these state forms on processes of development, and normatively, by posing questions about what the nature and role of the state should ideally be.

The module examines the main theoretical approaches to the state and historical state forms and their attendant development experiences, in the north and in the post-colonial south. Finally, the module moves to development since the 1980s, exploring the impacts of state failure, neo-liberalism, democratisation and global governance on state forms and patterns of development.

Economic Perspectives on Development

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2

This module introduces you to how economics can be used to understand contemporary international development issues. You will obtain a basic understanding of tools that economics uses to analyse and evaluate development questions. The emphasis is on analysing a topic and the nature of the problem, and policy responses, from both an economic and critical perspective. The module begins with a non-technical introduction to economics and then covers a set of topics, such as determinants of economic growth and the connection between growth, inequality and poverty, trade and trade policy, poverty reduction policies, the roles of corruption, legal and political institutions in economic development, agriculture, land and credit markets, the determinants and consequences of violent conflict and environment and development.

Environmental Perspectives on Development

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

The module explores development with an explicit focus on environmental issues. You will look at the relationships between development and the environment: the consequences of development on the environment, environmental constraints to development, and problems of development in marginal environments. You will examine how the environment and issues around sustainability have been considered (or ignored) in relation to development and how this has changed over time. The module includes historical perspectives on environment and development, illustrating continuities and changes in policies related to environment and development. It also explores core issues around environmental management and development in relation to key resources, such as wildlife, forests and water.

Finance for Development

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

This module discusses and analyses the major challenges and current initiatives in the creation of finance industries appropriate to and effective in developing countries. The module focuses on the private financial sector and issues relating to access to finance. After a general overview, the module begins by examining the forms of finance available for larger firms in developing countries, mainly the banking sector and the stock market. Subsequently, it covers the evidence on the effects of financial development on economic growth and the role of institutional factors, such as corporate governance, in financial development. It then moves on to examine the access to finance for smaller firms and households and the implications of a lack of access. Finally, the module touches upon private international sources of finance, namely private capital flows, FDI and remittances to developing countries.

Gender and Development: Theory, Concepts and Issues

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

This module considers development processes in the light of how they are shaped by and impact upon gender discourses and relations. The module introduces you to key concepts in the analysis of social relations between women and men in different cultural, economic and political contexts. This includes examining the nature of gender inequality and of the household as a social construct, and reviewing concepts of power and empowerment. While concerned with providing a theoretical and conceptual grounding by reviewing debates on the household and the gender division of labour, the module is organised around substantive and policy topics related to poverty, labour markets, women’s employment, migration, and globalisation.

Health, Poverty and Inequality

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

This second year interdisciplinary module is concerned with issues of culture, power and knowledge in the study of health and development. It draws on perspectives from medical anthropology, medical sociology, public health, cultural psychology, feminist and activist politics and development studies to focus on the relationship between poverty, social marginality and illness in a variety of historical and contemporary contexts. Apart from a focus on emerging infectious diseases such as HIV and Aids, we also consider the implications of homelessness, mental health and organ donation for individual health and well-being. The scrutiny of health planning and policies, such as in the domain of maternal and child health, as well as the impact of an increasing intervention of medical technologies in healthcare delivery, are further important aspects of the module.

Race, Ethnicity and Nationalism

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2

This module is an introduction to various themes and conceptual issues in the study of culture, ethnicity and nationalism as seen from a range of disciplinary perspectives. The module is comprised of three sections and is designed to provide you with an understanding of the interaction between power and cultural meanings, particularly as they relate to the construction of boundaries and the creation of difference between social groups. After considering such key concepts as race, culture, ethnicity, and nationalism, there will be an emphasis on ethnic and religious mobilisation and we shall consider the extent to which similar and different processes are at work in South Africa, the Caribbean, and the Indian sub-continent. These cases are included to give students a contextualised understanding of the complex historical and cultural dimensions of modern political struggles.

Social Change, Culture and Development

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2

This module starts from the observation that development is more than economic change and involves important social and cultural aspects. It begins with an interrogation of the way development practices and ideas are embedded in cultural contexts, and specifically how the development industry is historically and culturally entangled in Western conceptions of progress, rationality, and the individual. Against a view of culture as 'tradition' and an impediment to development we will examine different cultural conceptions of progress. This involves both alternate visions of future development as well as the negative impacts that development policies and interventions have on local people, communities and cultures. Questions of power and cultural relativism inevitably arise: what happens when different interests and commitments collide, and who or what determines the module development interventions take?

Statistics for Economics and Finance

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module introduces the statistical techniques used in economics, and involves computer-­based applications. Topics covered include: summarising and plotting data, basic probability theory, hypothesis testing, correlation analysis, and bivariate
and multiple regression analysis. You will be introduced in greater detail to the EXCEL
spreadsheet package, which you will use for your assessed coursework.

Statistics Project

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module provides an opportunity for you to make use of the statistical techniques you may have learnt on the Statistics for Economists module. You will be required to submit a project based on your own research, having gathered your own data (either from primary or secondary sources). You will be able to choose a topic of interest to yourselves and will receive supervision during the course of the term.

Behavioural Economics

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

During this module you will examine the psychological underpinnings of economic behaviour and examine recent theories and empirical results in behavioural economics. This forms the starting point in core economics modules and the dominant model of choice in economics, in which agents maximize expected utility given the information they possess and the choice set they have.

A growing body of empirical evidence has sought to challenge the assumption of individuals as rational economic agents; you will analyse this recent empirical evidence across a range of fields of economics and examine the new theories of economic behaviour.

Climate Change Economics

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module will deal with the economics of anthropogenic climate change, which apart from being the international policy issue of the present time will be a vehicle for the illustration of a wide range of ideas and techniques from economic analysis.

Conflict, Violence and Peace: Critical perspectives

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

In recent years, there has been increased focus on conflict, violence and peace-building in the media, popular literature and aid programmes raising important questions about how these processes are understood and represented and what implications this has for the local and international response and in turn the transformation of conflict and violence. This module will offer critical perspectives on mainstream approaches to the study of conflict, violence and peace drawing on both anthropology and development studies.

Conflict, Violence and Peace: Critical perspectives

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

In recent years, there has been increased focus on conflict, violence and peace-building in the media, popular literature and aid programmes raising important questions about how these processes are understood and represented and what implications this has for the local and international response and in turn the transformation of conflict and violence. This module will offer critical perspectives on mainstream approaches to the study of conflict, violence and peace drawing on both anthropology and development studies.

Contemporary Issues in the Global Political Economy

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

The central theme running through this module is how the architecture of existing capitalism has to be adjusted or brought into balance with the needs of expanding markets. We begin by looking at attempts by global governance institutions like the WTO (World Trade Organisation) to create a largely deregulated world market. We then examine how financial systems are expanding and how the stock market has become a key institution of modern capitalism. We discuss then the changing nature of multinational corporations and the state as they reorient themselves towards a global market. We examine empirically the post-Cold War expansion of capitalism into Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East. Finally, we analyse the most recent developments in world affairs from a political economy perspective, looking at the increasing military bias of foreign policy of major capitalist states, as well as at the changing nature of anti-capitalist protest in the wake of 9/11.

Contemporary Issues in the Global Political Economy: in-depth Analysis

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

The central theme running through this module is how the architecture of existing capitalism has to be adjusted or brought into balance with the needs of expanding markets. We begin by looking at attempts by global governance institutions like the WTO to create a largely deregulated world market. We then examine how financial systems are expanding and how the stock market has become a key institution of modern capitalism. We discuss then the changing nature of multinational corporations and the state as they reorient themselves towards a global market. We examine empirically the post-Cold War expansion of capitalism into Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East. Finally, we analyse the most recent developments in world affairs from a political economy perspective, looking at the increasing military bias of foreign policy of major capitalist states, as well as at the changing nature of anti-capitalist protest in the wake of 9/11.

Corporate Finance

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

The aim of the module is to provide an introduction to issues in corporate finance and for you to become competent at addressing quantitative questions relating to the subject. Topics include: corporate balance sheets, portfolio analysis, risk and return, capital structure, dividend policy, options, international finance issues.

Development Tools and Skills

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

The aim of the module is to introduce you to a range of key tools, approaches and skills used in the development world to identify, design, and evaluate development interventions. The module will take a 'hands on' approach and will allow you to develop skills which are useful not only in development but also in many other types of work in the public policy, private and voluntary sectors. In addition to the specific skills and tools covered in this module - such as problem analysis, stakeholder analysis, risk analysis, cost-benefit analysis and logical frameworks - you will also gain experience in working in teams, in presenting clear and convincing arguments, and in advocacy and negotiating skills.

Development, Business and Corporate Social Responsibility

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module explores the role of business in development and the rise of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) movement. In recent years, the private sector, and transnational corporations (TNCs) in particular, have become increasingly important players in the development process. The business and development movement has emerged as part of the dramatic rise of CSR over the past decade, providing a new vision for the role of business in society as 'corporate citizen'. Development institutions, such as DFID and the UN, as well as global NGOs, have become increasingly interested in mobilising business, not only as donors, but as partners in development. At the same time, ethical trading initiatives, the fairtrade movement and pro-poor enterprise models offer opportunities, in different ways, for harnessing the power of the market in the service of development. This module will explore a number of key questions concerning the role of business in development and the rise of the CSR movement, from the perspective of both its proponents and opponents.

Development, Business and Corporate Social Responsibility

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module explores the role of business in development and the rise of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) movement. In recent years, the private sector, and transnational corporations (TNCs) in particular, have become increasingly important players in the development process. The business and development movement has emerged as part of the dramatic rise of CSR over the past decade - providing a new vision for the role of business in society as 'corporate citizen'. Development institutions, such as DFID and the UN, as well as global NGOs, have become increasingly interested in mobilising business, not only as donors, but as partners in development. At the same time, ethical trading initiatives, the fairtrade movement and pro-poor enterprise models offer opportunities, in different ways, for harnessing the power of the market in the service of development. This module will explore a number of key questions concerning the role of business in development and the rise of the CSR movement, from the perspective of both its proponents and opponents.

Econometrics

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module studies the application of statistical methods to economic data. The focus is on regression analysis based on the ordinary least squares (OLS) principle. Topics covered include model specification and the analysis of regression disturbance problems (eg autocorrelation and heteroscedasticity).

Economics of European Integration

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

The aim of this module is to cover economic and institutional aspects of the European integration process, focusing on the economic and also legal aspects of the European Union, internally and in its relations with partners, including prospective members. Customs union theory, the theory of monetary union, fiscal federalism and regional economics will be covered. You will be expected to understand the basic economics of integration, and also the interrelationship between economics, law and politics, as well as knowing how to track down up to date policy materials on the web.

Environment, Ecology and Development

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module examines the impact of social and economic transformations, trade and technological development on people, environment and ecology in the tropics. The analysis includes a historical perspective, present-day impacts and future scenarios. Topics include problems of water and energy supply and their health and environmental consequences; indigenous environmental knowledge; intellectual property rights and biotechnology; local and national perspectives on wildlife, ecotourism and environmental protection.

Environment, Ecology and Development

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module examines the impact of social and economic transformations, trade and technological development on people, environment and ecology in the tropics. The analysis includes a historical perspective, present-day impacts and future scenarios. Topics include problems of water and energy supply and their health and environmental consequences; indigenous environmental knowledge; intellectual property rights and biotechnology; local and national perspectives on wildlife, ecotourism and environmental protection.

Environmental Economics

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

Ethnographies of Aid

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module considers what could be called the 'ethnographic turn' in development studies, which brings ethnographic methods and perspectives to bear on aid institutions, policies, and actors. These include particular methodological approaches, such as participant observation within aid organisations or 'expert' communities, attention to neglected dimensions such as the material culture of aid, and the role of the body in development work. In addition to the ethnography of policy making, we will also investigate the role of non-official materials such as aid worker blogs, memoirs, and 'development blockbusters'.

Human Rights

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module focuses less on human rights rules and laws than on the assumptions of human rights, the historical context and issues around their operation and implementation. It draws from a new and growing literature on the sociology and anthropology of human rights which seeks to move beyond the assumptions of legal positivism (rights as being 'read off' from lists of human rights covenants) in order to develop the legal realist argument which focuses upon the living law of the operation of courts, the police, and the everyday understandings which citizens give to notions such as truth, justice, and morality.


 

Human Rights

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module focuses less on human rights rules and laws than on the assumptions of human rights, the historical context and issues around their operation and implementation. It draws from a new and growing literature on the sociology and anthropology of human rights which seeks to move beyond the assumptions of legal positivism (rights as being `read off¿ from lists of human rights covenants) in order to develop the `legal realist¿ argument which focuses upon the living law of the operation of courts, the police, and the everyday understandings which citizens give to notions such as truth, justice, and morality.

International Development Thesis

30 credits
Autumn & spring teaching, Year 3

The International Development Undergraduate Thesis provides you with an opportunity to integrate what they have learnt in the module of your studies into a single, sustained piece of writing that will explore a topic in depth. The module will involve the design, planning and execution of the thesis, with the support of a supervisor, and may include the collection of empirical data or the use of secondary source material. You choose your own topics, and develop your own approaches to investigating the topic, drawing on earlier skills-based modules and on interests developed through the module of the degree programme.

International Trade

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This course develops the theory of international trade and explores contemporary developments in the international trading system. In particular, it examines the underlying causes and welfare effects of trade on countries and their residents, and the implications of these results for international trade policy and institutions.

Labour Economics

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

The module explores how labour economics informs the discussion of many social issues such as the causes of unemployment; how technological change is shifting the distribution of jobs and wages; the impact of immigration on wages and employment; the impact of social security on the incentive to work; and the causes of gender and racial wage and employment gaps.

Medicines, Health and Development

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module examines the relationship between health and development paying particular attention to the international role of the pharmaceutical industry, the globalisation of its operations and how medical drugs are assessed for safety and efficacy. It examines the degree to which the pharmaceutical industry represents a positive (or negative) force for health in the developing world and the role of organisations such as WHO.

Medicines, Health and Development

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module examines the relationship between health and development paying particular attention to the international role of the pharmaceutical industry, the globalisation of its operations and how medical drugs are assessed for safety and efficacy. It examines the degree to which the pharmaceutical industry represents a positive or negative force for health in the developing world, and the role of organisations such as WHO.

Monetary Theory and Policy

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

The module begins with Keynes' reformulation of monetary theory and the application of Keynes' ideas to economic depressions. The bulk of the module deals with monetary policy in practice: the role of medium-term macroeconomic targets in policy-making; how policy should respond to new information in the short term; money demand; the money supply process; and how financial market imperfections should affect policy-making. The last part of the module deals with banks, financial crises and financial regulation.

Population and Development

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module examines the relationship between population issues and economic, social and environmental aspects of development. It introduces theoretical frameworks for analysing population change and assesses the consequences of population growth for food supplies and the environment at both global and local levels. It goes on to examine factors affecting the components of population change including fertility and mortality decline, changing sex ratios, the growth of megacities and international migration. Policies on health, family planning and migration are also discussed.

Population and Development

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module examines the relationship between population issues and economic, social and environmental aspects of development. It introduces theoretical frameworks for analysing population change and assesses the consequences of population growth for food supplies and the environment at both global and local levels. It goes on to examine factors affecting the components of population change including fertility and mortality decline, changing sex ratios, the growth of megacities and international migration. Policies on health, family planning and migration are also discussed.

Rural Livelihoods in the Global South

30 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module considers the varied nature of rural livelihood systems in developing countries. You consider changes in livelihoods through livelihood diversification and migration, and the interconnectedness of the global and the local in causing change in rural societies. The module explores the impact of different agents of change on livelihoods. This will include the role of non-governmental organisations, the impact of modern biotechnology and the effects of trade on livelihoods, amongst other important examples. The module draws primarily (though by no means exclusively) on evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa and India.

Rural Livelihoods in the Global South

30 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

This module considers the varied nature of rural livelihood systems in developing countries. You consider changes in livelihoods through livelihood diversification and migration, and the interconnectedness of the global and the local in causing change in rural societies. The module explores the impact of different agents of change on livelihoods. This will include the role of non-governmental organisations, the impact of modern biotechnology and the effects of trade on livelihoods, amongst other important examples. The module draws primarily (though by no means exclusively) on evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa and India.

The Economics of Development

15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3

This module addresses some of the major problems of economic development in low- and middle-income economies: the relationship between poverty, inequality and economic growth; long-run growth and structural change; microeconomic issues in agricultural development, including theories of peasant resource allocation and farm size and efficiency; market performance in the rural and informal sectors of less developed countries (LDCs); industrialisation and trade policy; the roles of monetary policy and foreign aid in resource mobilisation; stabilisation and structural adjustment; and investment in human capital.

Understanding Global Markets

15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3

The aim of this module is to give you an understanding of key features of the newly emerging globalised world economy. The module therefore comprises four components. The first of these analyses the conceptual background to understanding global markets, as well as examining the underlying changes in technology which have transformed economic relations between regions and nation states. The subsequent components then use that background in order to focus on the key characteristics and changes in: trade in goods and services, capital flow, and movement of people.

This module will cover the context of global markets: such as the emergence/development of global markets and understanding what can be meant by globalisation. We will also examine the impact of technological change on global markets (information technology, transport costs) as well as goods and services.  Why do countries trade and why do countries integrate into regional blocs? We will study the evolution of patterns of trade: trade volumes, geographical patterns of trade (north-north, north-south, south-outh, regional groupings etc). We will look at vertical specialisation and value chains, outsourcing, offshoring, supply chaining. This module will also cover: the role of services in the global economy and the evolution of services trade; international capital flows; multinationals and foreign direct investment - theory and data; short run capital flows: global capital markets and origins of financial and exchange rate crises; labour migration, Why workers migrate: individual and family motives and the impact of migration on the home market and on the host market.

Back to module list

Entry requirements

Sussex welcomes applications from students of all ages who show evidence of the academic maturity and broad educational background that suggests readiness to study at degree level. For most students, this will mean formal public examinations; details of some of the most common qualifications we accept are shown below. If you are an overseas student, refer to Applicants from outside the UK.

All teaching at Sussex is in the English language. If your first language is not English, you will also need to demonstrate that you meet our English language requirements.

A level

Typical offer: AAB

Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will also need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics, with at least grade B.

International Baccalaureate

Typical offer: 35 points overall

For more information refer to International Baccalaureate.

Other qualifications

Access to HE Diploma

Typical offer: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with at least 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 credits must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit or higher.

Specific entry requirements: The Access to HE Diploma should be in the social sciences. Successful applicants will also need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics, with at least grade B.

For more information refer to Access to HE Diploma.

Advanced Diploma

Typical offer: Pass with grade A in the Diploma and A in the Additional and Specialist Learning

Specific entry requirements: The Additional and Specialist Learning must be an A-level (ideally in a humanities or social science subject). Successful applicants will also need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics, with at least grade B.

For more information refer to Advanced Diploma.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma

Typical offer: DDD

Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will also need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics, with at least grade B.

For more information refer to BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma.

European Baccalaureate

Typical offer: Overall result of 80%

For more information refer to European Baccalaureate.

Finnish Ylioppilastutkinto

Typical offer: Overall average result in the final matriculation examinations of at least 6.5

French Baccalauréat

Typical offer: Overall final result of at least 13.5/20

German Abitur

Typical offer: Overall result of 1.5 or better

Irish Leaving Certificate (Higher level)

Typical offer: AAAABB

Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will need to have evidence of good ability in Mathematics

Italian Diploma di Maturità or Diploma Pass di Esame di Stato

Typical offer: Final Diploma mark of at least 92/100

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

Typical offer: AAABB

Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will also need Mathematics at Standard Grade, grade 1 or 2

For more information refer to Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers.

Spanish Titulo de Bachillerato (LOGSE)

Typical offer: Overall average result of at least 8.5

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma

Typical offer: Pass the Core plus at least AA in two A-levels

Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will also need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics, with at least grade B.

For more information refer to Welsh Baccalaureate.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in each section. Internet-based TOEFL with 88 overall, with at least 20 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking and 23 in Writing.

For more information, refer to alternative English language requirements.

For more information about the admissions process at Sussex:

Undergraduate Admissions,
Sussex House,
University of Sussex, Falmer,
Brighton BN1 9RH, UK
T +44 (0)1273 678416
F +44 (0)1273 678545
E ug.enquiries@sussex.ac.uk

Fees and funding

Fees

Home/EU students: £9,0001
Channel Island and Isle of Man students: £9,0002
Overseas students: £13,0003

1 The fee shown is for the academic year 2013.
2 The fee shown is for the academic year 2013.
3 The fee shown is for the academic year 2013.

To find out about your fee status, living expenses and other costs, visit further financial information.

Funding

The funding sources listed below are for the subject area you are viewing and may not apply to all degrees listed within it. Please check the description of the individual funding source to make sure it is relevant to your chosen degree.

To find out more about funding and part-time work, visit further financial information.

Care Leavers Award (2013)

Region: UK
Level: UG
Application deadline: 31 July 2014

For students have been in council care before starting at Sussex.

First-Generation Scholars Scheme (2013)

Region: UK
Level: UG
Application deadline: 13 June 2014

The scheme is targeted to help students from relatively low income families – ie those whose family income is up to £42,611.

First-Generation Scholars Scheme EU Student Award (2013)

Region: Europe (Non UK)
Level: UG
Application deadline: 13 June 2014

£3,000 fee waiver for UG Non-UK EU students whose family income is below £25,000

 

Careers and profiles

Career opportunities

Our graduates have gone on to have careers in both the UK and overseas, and in the public and private sectors:

  • Many work for development organisations such as the United Nations agencies and big international charities like Oxfam.
  • Several Sussex alumni have set up non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as a result of their experiences while at Sussex, and others have been active in campaigning and lobbying work.
  • Our graduates also go on to work for local and national government, particularly in the fields of social and economic regeneration and multiculturalism.
  • Some work in the private sector or in commerce, where an understanding of global social issues is important, especially as companies become more interested in corporate social responsibility.
  • Every year, several of our graduates go on to further study and training in a range of vocational and academic disciplines.

Career opportunities

Our courses prepare you for employment in fields such as accountancy and finance, management, or for work as an economist in a government, international or consulting agency.

Recent graduates have taken up a wide range of posts with employers including:

  • assistant product merchandiser at Net-a-porter.com
  • buyer at John Lewis
  • consultant at Real Global Markets
  • financial advisor at Lloyds Bank
  • intern at Wilton Park (an executive agency of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office)
  • investment banker at Bank of America
  • media planning assistant at Future Publishing
  • merchandise assistant at Jaeger
  • economist at the Ministry of Defence
  • director of promotions at NextHype Promotions
  • junior market economist at Informer Global Markets
  • pricing analyst at 1st Central.

Specific employer destinations listed are taken from recent Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education surveys, which are produced annually by the Higher Education Statistics Agency.

For more information, refer to Department of Economics: Career opportunities.

Careers and employability

For employers, it’s not so much what you know, but what you can do with your knowledge that counts. The experience and skills you’ll acquire during and beyond your studies will make you an attractive prospect. Initiatives such as SussexPlus, delivered by the Careers and Employability Centre, help you turn your skills to your career advantage. It’s good to know that 94 per cent of our graduates are in work or further study (Which? University).

For more information on the full range of initiatives that make up our career and employability plan for students, visit Careers and alumni.

Ruth's career perspective

Ruth Pollak

‘Economics and International Development at Sussex gave me the skills and courage to get where I am now. Having completed an internship at the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, I’m now developing and implementing my own microfinance programme in Lima, Peru, with two fellow Sussex graduates.

‘This invaluable experience lets me put into practice the knowledge and skills that I gained from my degree.

‘At Sussex I benefited not only from excellent teaching but also from my tutors’ continuous support and interest. Sussex faculty encouraged us to carry out this microfinance programme from the very start, and are still supporting us in our work more than a year after graduation. I thank the Economics and International Development degree for such an amazing experience!’

Ruth Pollak
Programme Coordinator,
Asociación SOLAC

Contact our School

School of Business, Management and Economics

The School of Business, Management and Economics is a unique, research-focused business school, which takes a strong policy-directed view on business practices while also developing the underlying core disciplines.

How do I find out more?

For more information, contact the admissions tutor:

Department of Economics, 
Jubilee Building,
University of Sussex, Falmer,
Brighton BN1 9SL, UK
E ug.admissions@economics.sussex.ac.uk
T +44 (0)1273 678889
F +44 (0)1273 873715
Department of Economics

School of Global Studies

The School of Global Studies aims to provide one of the UK's premier venues for understanding how the world is changing. It offers a broad range of perspectives on global issues, and staff and students are actively engaged with a wide range of international and local partners, contributing a distinctive perspective on global affairs.

How do I find out more?

For more information, contact the subject coordinator:

International development, Arts C168,
University of Sussex, Falmer,
Brighton BN1 9SJ, UK
E devstudiesoffice@sussex.ac.uk
T +44 (0)1273 678722
F +44 (0)1273 673563
International development

Visit us

Campus tours

We offer weekly guided campus tours.

Mature students at Sussex: information sessions

If you are 21 or over, and thinking about starting an undergraduate degree at Sussex, you may want to attend one of our mature student information sessions. Running between October and December, they include guidance on how to approach your application, finance and welfare advice, plus a guided campus tour with one of our current mature students.

Self-guided visits

If you are unable to make any of the visit opportunities listed, drop in Monday to Friday year round and collect a self-guided tour pack from Sussex House reception.

Go to Visit us and Open Days to book onto one of our tours.

Hannah's perspective

Hannah Steele

'Studying at Sussex gave me so many opportunities to really throw myself into university life, and being taught by enthusiastic academic staff who are involved in ground-breaking research meant that the education I received was second to none.

'Coming to an Open Day gave me a great insight into both academic and social life at Sussex. Working here means that I now get to tell others about my experiences and share all the great things about the University. And if you can’t make it to our Open Days, we’ve other opportunities to visit, or you can visit our Facebook page and our Visit us and Open Days pages.'

Hannah Steele
Graduate Intern, Student Recruitment Services

Aaron-Leslie's perspective

Aaron-Leslie Williams

'Leaving home to study at Sussex was an exciting new experience, and settling in came naturally with all the different activities on campus throughout the year. There are loads of facilities available on your doorstep, both the Library and the gym are only ever a short walk away.

'My experience at Sussex has been amazing. It's a really friendly campus, the academics are helpful, and Brighton is just around the corner. I now work as a student ambassador, and help out at Open Days, sharing all the things I've grown to love about Sussex!'

Aaron-Leslie Williams
BSc in Mathematics


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