MA in Development & Rights, Goldsmiths, University of London

MA in Development & Rights

‘Development’ has come to represent the political relationship between rich and poor countries following the end of colonialism. This programme offers a critical approach to development through the lens of anthropology. It explores the historical role of anthropological engagement in development, and provides the opportunity to rethink concepts, policies and practices underwriting global inequality. Offering a critical exploration of the concept of rights (human, indigenous, or gender, for example) and how it is mobilised to make various kinds of claims, the degree presents diverse perspectives on how we might address global inequality.

"The programme has broadened my knowledge about development. It gives students the opportunity to explore other avenues by undertaking a development placement with an organisation in London, and through that students are able to relate theory to practice. It’s truly a privilege to be able to study under such dedicated and gifted lecturers in the Department of Anthropology."

Emmanuel, MA Development & Rights

Length:
1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.

Applying:

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Find out more about applying

Entrance requirements:
You should have an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in a relevant subject. If your first language is not English, please check our English Language requirements.

Careers:
Graduates have pursued research degrees, either at Goldsmiths or elsewhere, and have taken up employment in charities as well as NGOs and GOs, professional organisations, education and journalism.

Skills:
Project design and implementation; critical analysis and report writing.

Fees:
Please see Tuition fees.

Staff research interests:
Please see Staff research interests.

Contact the department:
Contact Dr Alpa Shah

About the department:
Anthropology

Download a booklet [PDF, 726KB]

The programme is convened and taught by Dr Alpa Shah.

Core courses will enable you to explore the theoretical concepts underpinning development, the history of development and its institutions. You will produce a dissertation, and choose from options which currently cover: anthropology of rights; gender and development; anthropological theory and methodology; urban issues in anthropology; postcolonial theory.

London is the headquarters of many development-related organisations. You will negotiate a work placement with one such organisation for one half day per week. This is an opportunity for critical reflection on some of the issues raised.

Student profile

Assessment

Take-home papers; unseen papers and essays/reports; dissertation.

Register your interest

If you register your interest in this programme we will keep you informed about open days and send you relevant further information. If you subsequently decide to apply for this programme you will be able to use the same login details to apply.