MSc Research Methods with International Development / Careers

Year of entry: 2024

Career opportunities

MSc Research Methods is ideal if you are considering PhD study and/or a career in research in international development. 

Teaching and research at the Global Development Institute covers a wide variety of topics and as a result our students can be found in a range of jobs and careers. 

Our teaching aims to support students from all backgrounds to acquire valuable knowledge, skills and attributes to achieve their educational and professional goals. 

It includes regular contributions from researchers and practitioners with a view to equip our students to make a positive difference in their chosen sphere. 

NGOs and third-sector organisations 

Our teaching and research aims are suited to work in non-government and civil society organisations where you take on a range of roles from policy advisors, project managers, HR and communications staff. 

Our alumni can be found at large international NGOs like Oxfam as well as in many smaller organisations. 

Government and policy  

Graduates can be found in national governments, multilateral organisations and policy influencing positions around the world, in organisations including DFID, the World Bank, African Union, United Nations and as civil servants around the world. 

Private sector 

Our focus on how businesses and the private sector can play a role in development enables you to gain employment in multinational organisations, private sector firms or to start your own organisations addressing some of the biggest global challenges. 

Research and teaching  

Our master's courses provide you with a strong theoretical foundation for further study. 

Alumni find employment in research and teaching positions at universities and research institutes around the world. Top employers include: 

  • African Union;
  • Oxfam;
  • Inter-American Development Bank;
  • Care;
  • Mercy Corps;
  • The British Council;
  • the World Bank;
  • the Department for International Development;
  • United Nations;
  • USAID.

Find out more about our alumni and some of our notable former students

Careers support  

The University has its own dedicated Careers Service that you would have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate. 

At Manchester you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability

Careers support for international students  

The Careers Service provides specialist resources, advice and events to help with career planning and making the most of your time while studying in Manchester. 

Global networks  

The University of Manchester is proud to have the largest global alumni community of any campus-based university in the UK. 

After your course, you'll join our 10,000 strong alumni network

We'll keep you up to date with all the new insights and implications from our research. 

International alumni groups are a great way to keep in touch with fellow Manchester graduates in your country. 

It is an opportunity to build professional and social networks.

You can view the alumni networks already operating across the globe, here .