Department: Department of Politics and International Relations. This 1-year full-time Master of Public Administration (MPA) with a specialization in International Development is designed for professionals (or aspiring professionals) seeking to lead and manage in international development contexts, including governmental organizations, NGOs, and intergovernmental bodies. The program focuses on understanding and addressing global challenges related to poverty, inequality, and sustainable development. It provides a blend of core public administration skills (public finance, policy analysis, leadership, change management) with specialized knowledge in development theory, governance, and social and political issues impacting development. The curriculum draws from contemporary scholarship and practitioner approaches, equipping students with the analytical and leadership skills to influence multi-stakeholder policy processes and implement development projects effectively. The program culminates in an Independent Policy Report (dissertation/major project) of 8,000 words.

Graduates of the MPA in International Development are prepared for leadership and managerial roles across a wide range of public and non-profit organizations operating in the international development sphere. The program develops highly sought-after skills in leadership, strategy, performance management, human resources, and policy analysis relevant to the developing world. Career opportunities include roles in: International NGOs and Charities (e.g., Oxfam, Save the Children, World Vision); Government Bodies (e.g., Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, national aid agencies); Intergovernmental Organizations (e.g., United Nations agencies, World Bank, regional development banks); Development Consultancies; Think Tanks focusing on global development policy; Social Enterprises; Research and Academia. Common job titles include Development Program Manager, Policy Analyst, Humanitarian Aid Worker, Project Coordinator, Fundraising Manager, Public Affairs Specialist, Civil Servant, or Diplomat in relevant departments.

The University of York is a member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group, indicating a commitment to world-class research and an outstanding teaching and learning experience. It is a university with many highly ranked subjects (Politics is ranked highly in UK league tables, and the Department of Politics and International Relations is ranked in the UK top ten for research quality). The university boasts great graduate prospects, preparing students for influential careers. Located in a historic city in northern England that's famous for being friendly and safe (ranked 2nd safest city in the UK in 2023), York offers a supportive and engaging environment. The Department of Politics and International Relations has research strengths in areas such as conflict, security and development, political economy, international politics, and public policy, with active engagement in interdisciplinary centers like the Interdisciplinary Global Development Centre.