At ARU we equip students with the knowledge and skills to address poverty, inequality and social exclusion through an interdisciplinary, practice-based approach to teaching and learning.
MA in International Development
Our MA in International Development explores the politics of poverty and inequality in a globalised world, and what works for international development. Our students gain insights into key debates, theories, policies and practices, as well as practical skills such as project design, monitoring, and evaluation. Students leave prepared for careers in the not-for-profit and humanitarian sectors, or many other local, national, and international organisations. Students have the unique opportunity to design their own pathway on this course, taking modules from a range of other MA courses including International Relations, Sociology, International Social Welfare and Social Policy, Criminology, and History, to gain an interdisciplinary understanding of development theory and practice.
MSc in International Social Welfare and Social Policy
Our MSc in International Social Welfare and Social Policy focuses on the key social challenges that shape people’s lives, including poverty, access to education, health, housing and social inequality. Students develop the analytical and practical skills required to assess and respond to these challenges through policy and programme design, drawing on perspectives from across disciplines. With a strong international outlook, the course prepares graduates to work in government, non-governmental organisations and social enterprises to advance more equitable and inclusive societies.
BA (Hons) in Social Work
Our Social Work programmes prepare students to work directly with some of the most disadvantaged and marginalised communities in society. Through a combination of academic study and practice-based placements, students gain the skills to assess individual and community needs, manage risk, and deliver effective interventions. The course emphasises social justice, inclusion, and support for vulnerable groups, equipping graduates to address the complex social and economic factors that contribute to poverty and exclusion in real-world settings. Our course is approved by Social Work England, enabling students to register as professional social workers upon graduation.
These examples highlight our commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to directly intervene in the complex challenges of poverty and social exclusion, and make a real difference to people’s lives.
Last updated: October 2026
To request additions, corrections or changes to the information in these pages, please contact: Dr Zareen Bharucha: [email protected]. Please use the subject line ‘ARU SDG’.