Program Overview
The International Development Studies (Distance Learning) at University of Portsmouth is a Postgraduate Certificate programme in Social Sciences over 12 months, delivered Online. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.
Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of social sciences. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.
Graduates of the International Development Studies (Distance Learning) programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across United Kingdom and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 12 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: Online
- English requirement: IELTS 6.5
- Tuition: GBP 1,400 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 1,400 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the International Development Studies (Distance Learning) programme are prepared for diverse careers in social sciences:
- Policy Analyst
- NGO Programme Manager
- Researcher
- Social Worker
- Diplomat
- Development Consultant
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- Theory & Practice of Development: Explore the history, theory and practice of international development studies, through topics from colonialism to globalisation. You will be introduced to the tools, such as social enterprise, that are used in development practice. Assessment includes a social enterprise project alongside a traditional essay.
- Applied Research Methods for Development: Learn the strategies and methods of collecting and analysing quantitative and qualitative data in the social sciences. You will learn to use SPSS for data manipulation, quantitative data analysis and interpretation, using a range of data sets relevant to international development studies.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
- A good honours degree in a relevant subject, or equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications.
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.
English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
GBP 1,400 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 1,400 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
Tuition fees: GBP 1,400 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 1,400 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
IELTS requirement: 6.5
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact University of Portsmouth directly for scholarship, grant, and financial aid information for this programme. Many European universities offer merit-based and need-based funding for international and domestic students.
About University of Portsmouth
University of Portsmouth
Portsmouth, United Kingdom
University of Portsmouth is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields. The...
University Profile- Start Date September 2026
- Language English
- Duration 12 months