2024 MSC IN DEVELOPMENT POLICY AND POLITICS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM FEATURING THE MO IBRAHIM FOUNDATION INTERNSHIP

The University of Birmingham’s International Development Department is delighted to extend a scholarship opportunity for the MSc in Development Policy and Politics, featuring the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship.

Provided by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, this scholarship covers a comprehensive two-year program. The selected candidate will engage in the full one-year MSc program, coupled with an integrated one-year internship. This unique internship involves six months with IDD, collaborating on research with academics and the GSDRC, followed by six months at the Mo Ibrahim Foundation in London. During this period, the candidate will work alongside the team, contributing to various initiatives aimed at “putting governance at the centre of Africa’s development.” Activities include involvement in the Now Generation Forum, a novel platform for African emerging leaders and young professionals within the Ibrahim Forum and the Ibrahim Governance Weekend.

Program Overview:

The emphasis on “politics matters” has become a pivotal focus for development policymakers, practitioners, and scholars. Recognizing that development, at various levels, is inherently political, this program emphasizes the need for strong political analysis skills and a profound understanding of the political dynamics associated with global development challenges. Drawing lessons from global experiences in politics, power, governance, and policy, IDD’s multinational student body enriches discussions with diverse perspectives.

The MSc program establishes a direct connection between academic and practical policy approaches to development, grounded in theory and evidence. IDD’s forefront research on governance, leadership, democracy, and thinking and working politically informs the curriculum, exposing students to innovation, rigor, complexity, and debate – effectively bridging theory and practice.

University of Birmingham Masters Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Airfare to and from the United Kingdom, including visa expenses
• Monthly stipend of £950 for 18 months
• Arrival allowance of £950
• The remaining six months of the internship will be funded directly by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.

Requirements for University of Birmingham Masters Scholarship: Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a first-class Honours degree or equivalent from an approved university.
• Be under 30 years of age at the time of application.
• Demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English. Non-native English speakers should achieve at least level 6.5 in the IELTS or 580/93 for TOEFL. Further details are available on the University website.
• Be African nationals domiciled (or permanent residents) in an African country. Preference will be given to candidates residing in Sub-Saharan Africa