Economic Development MSc
Development Policy ECON5003
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: Adam Smith Business School
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: No
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course focuses on concepts in development and impact evaluation methods, and examines the main issues faced by developing countries along with their policy responses. Students will develop and apply the knowledge and skills required for policy analysis, evaluation, and the design of policy solutions. The course allows students to reflect on their learning journey and connect the course content to their experiences. It prioritises the enhancement of critical thinking and practical skills needed for diverse roles in various organisations.
Timetable
One 2-hour in-person seminar x 10 weeks
Students will experience a dynamic learning environment that integrates in-person and online elements. The course adopts an active-blended learning approach, combining face-to-face sessions with 10 hours of asynchronous activities, utilising a variety of digital resources, interactive forums, and multimedia content.
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
1. Written assignment, including essay; Individual; 2000 words; 75%; ILOs 1-4.
2. Written assignment, including essay; Group; 2000 words; 25%; ILOs 1, 2, 5.
Are reassessment opportunities available for all summative assessments? No
It is the default expectation that all courses will offer opportunities for reassessment or deferred assessment. Where it is not possible to offer this in some assessment components, the grade achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade, and any exceptions for this course are described below.
[No exceptions]
Course Aims
This course aims to analyse some of the main social and developmental problems faced by developing countries and possible policy responses.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
1. analyse the main social and economic problems confronting developing countries
1. apply appropriate analytical frameworks to assess the potential impacts of development challenges and policies
1. evaluate existing development policies and propose and justify alternative policy responses to address developmental issues effectively
1. articulate development policy recommendations to policy audiences
1. work collaboratively in groups to produce an output relating to development policy and develop teamwork skills.