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CHOOSE A SUBJECT
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  • Accounting
  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Architectural Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Art
  • Biochemistry
  • Biological Sciences
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Bioveterinary Sciences
  • Building and Surveying
  • Business and Management

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  • Chemistry
  • Classics and Classical Studies
  • Climate Science
  • Computer Science
  • Construction Management
  • Consumer Behaviour and Marketing
  • Creative Writing
  • Criminology
  • Drama
  • Ecology
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • English Language and Applied Linguistics
  • English Literature
  • Environment

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  • Foundation programmes
  • French
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  • Graphic Communication and Design

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  • Healthcare
  • History
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  • International Foundation Programme (IFP)
  • International Relations
  • Italian
  • Languages and Cultures
  • Law
  • Linguistics
  • Marketing
  • Mathematics
  • Medical Sciences
  • Meteorology and Climate
  • Microbiology
  • Museum Studies

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  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmacy
  • Philosophy
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  • Politics and International Relations
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  • Sociology
  • Spanish
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Surveying and Construction
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  • Wildlife Conservation
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We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2026/27 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2025/26 courses.

MSc Development Finance

  • Year of entry
    2025/26
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Part Time: 24 months
  • Year of entry
    2025/26
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Part Time: 24 months

Explore key issues and challenges in finance for economic development in developing countries with our MSc Development Finance master’s degree.

Study at one of the UK’s leading universities for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 4th in the People and Planet University League, 2024/25).

You will examine the key issues in development finance, and conduct analysis of financial markets in emerging economies, financial sector reform, and policies and institutions, to promote financial inclusion.

Choose MSc Development Finance at the University of Reading

You will:

  • join the highest placed UK university for Agriculture and Forestry at 20th in the world (QS World Rankings by Subject, Agriculture and Forestry, 2025), with its own farms and specialist facilities
  • explore key issues within the field of development finance and microenterprise finance, against the background of major perspectives on development and macroeconomic policy
  • investigate specialist areas within the financial services sector as well as other topics relating to development. 

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics in our School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Your learning environment

You’ll learn from academics who are conducting world-class research within global development as well as applied economics and marketing.                                                          
Current research, policy and practice examples are used throughout the course and many modules include external seminar speakers. There is also a series of department and research division talks and events.  

You will choose from a diverse range of modules that aim to give you the knowledge and skills you need to have an impact and be part of global change.

You can choose to undertake an optional placement during semester 2, as well.

Class sizes vary by module, but emphasis is always placed on good contact with lecturers.

Learning occurs across a variety of:

  • interactive learning methods
  • seminars
  • lectures
  • tutorials
  • participation in the classroom: debates, discussions
  • field trips.

You will also have opportunities for research, networking, and personal development, as well as access to modern study resources and employability support. We also offer study skills support that’s tailored to our School’s master’s students.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics

As an MSc Development Finance student, you’ll be a member of the School’s Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE).

GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master’s students from more than 40 countries, and holds diversity, equality and high-quality teaching and learning as core values in its approach to education.

  • GIIDAE has an active scholarship programme. Visit our dedicated scholarships webpage for more information about scholarships, bursaries, and other sources of funding.
  • Visit the GIIDAE website for more information about the modules you can take during your degree.

Overview

Explore key issues and challenges in finance for economic development in developing countries with our MSc Development Finance master’s degree.

Study at one of the UK’s leading universities for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 4th in the People and Planet University League, 2024/25).

You will examine the key issues in development finance, and conduct analysis of financial markets in emerging economies, financial sector reform, and policies and institutions, to promote financial inclusion.

Choose MSc Development Finance at the University of Reading

You will:

  • join the highest placed UK university for Agriculture and Forestry at 20th in the world (QS World Rankings by Subject, Agriculture and Forestry, 2025), with its own farms and specialist facilities
  • explore key issues within the field of development finance and microenterprise finance, against the background of major perspectives on development and macroeconomic policy
  • investigate specialist areas within the financial services sector as well as other topics relating to development. 

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics in our School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Learning

Your learning environment

You’ll learn from academics who are conducting world-class research within global development as well as applied economics and marketing.                                                          
Current research, policy and practice examples are used throughout the course and many modules include external seminar speakers. There is also a series of department and research division talks and events.  

You will choose from a diverse range of modules that aim to give you the knowledge and skills you need to have an impact and be part of global change.

You can choose to undertake an optional placement during semester 2, as well.

Class sizes vary by module, but emphasis is always placed on good contact with lecturers.

Learning occurs across a variety of:

  • interactive learning methods
  • seminars
  • lectures
  • tutorials
  • participation in the classroom: debates, discussions
  • field trips.

You will also have opportunities for research, networking, and personal development, as well as access to modern study resources and employability support. We also offer study skills support that’s tailored to our School’s master’s students.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics

As an MSc Development Finance student, you’ll be a member of the School’s Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE).

GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master’s students from more than 40 countries, and holds diversity, equality and high-quality teaching and learning as core values in its approach to education.

  • GIIDAE has an active scholarship programme. Visit our dedicated scholarships webpage for more information about scholarships, bursaries, and other sources of funding.
  • Visit the GIIDAE website for more information about the modules you can take during your degree.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (high 2:2 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK. Applicants who have relevant career experience are also welcome to apply.

Your undergraduate degree must include a significant element of economics/accounting or finance. Students are advised to take some preliminary economics course before commencing their study. 

Students may join immediately after their undergraduate degree, or after some years of employment to enhance career prospects by acquiring further skills.

For a list of requirements by country, please visit our Country-Specific Information page.

Your personal statement

Your personal statement needs to demonstrate that you understand what the course is about, your motivation for studying, and what you would like to get out of your studies. You may reflect on paid or unpaid experience in the field to help support your personal statement.

Please tell us about your interest in development finance issues, and the role of finance in international development.

Language requirements

Applicants may need to provide evidence of their ability to study in English (if required by UK Visa and Immigration). Our online list of English language tests and qualifications is routinely updated, so please check to see if you already have an acceptable qualification or test, and for the most recent changes to language requirements.

If you have any questions about your evidence of English language proficiency, please email pgadmissions@reading.ac.uk.

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent)

Pre-sessional English language Programme

Our Pre-sessional English Programme is for international students who need to meet their degree programme English language requirements.

Our courses equip you with the skills and language needed for academic success, including critical thinking, self-reflection, learner autonomy, research skills and integrating sources. The Pre-sessional English Programme is accredited by the British Association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes (BALEAP), which guarantees you will receive a high-quality student experience.

To find out more, visit Pre-sessional English.

Structure

  • Modules

Compulsory modules

Development Finance

Examine the impact of domestic and international financial systems on economic development and analyse trends and policy issues in development finance. You’ll also evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of various funding sources available to governments in developing countries.

Microfinance

Critically review microfinance services for the rural and urban poor, assess financial market players, and evaluate proposals for sustainable institutions. You’ll examine the effectiveness of microfinance as a tool for aiding the disadvantaged by studying its proposed impacts.

Appraisal of Agricultural and Rural Development Projects

Explore the role project appraisal in development, and its financial, economic, and social aspects. You’ll also understand the need for integrating environmental assessments, and explore macroeconomic, policy, and management factors in developing countries.

Dissertation

Explore and independently research a topic of your choice, integrating your course knowledge with guidance from an academic supervisor.

Development Economics

Explore the complex, yet crucial relationship between food and global development. Gain a broad but comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with producing, accessing and consuming food in different parts of the world.

Optional modules

Theories and Practices of Development

Explore contemporary theories and practices of international development. You’ll gain a broad and comprehensive understanding of the key ideas influencing efforts to reduce poverty and achieve social justice around the world. 

Consumers, Producers, Markets and Trade

Apply rigorous microeconomic reasoning to analyse consumer, producer, market, and trade behaviours, exploring internationally recognised case studies and research topics. You’ll delve into key concepts of behavioural economics and theoretical aspects of international trade.

Food Security and Development

Explore the complex, yet crucial relationship between food and global development. Gain a broad but comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with producing, accessing and consuming food in different parts of the world.

Econometrics

Learn how to effectively translate data, specify econometrics models for research questions, conduct hypothesis testing, interpret results critically, and use software for econometric analysis across various data types.

Energy, Climate Change and Development

Explore the social and economic factors behind climate change, and critically assess solutions using ecological and energy economics. You’ll gain the ability to analyse causes and evaluate mitigation and adaptation policies. 

Poverty, Inequalities and Gender in Development

Explore poverty, inequality, and inclusive development, with a focus on the historical context of “gender” and critically assess social policies, emphasizing gender perspectives. Learn about equity, inclusion, and rights, applying gender analysis to address issues like poverty. 

Economics of Public Policy

Discover key micro- and macro-economic tools and concepts for the analysis of public policy and apply them to a range of problems. You’ll examine policies according to efficiency and equity criteria, and debate current public policy issues through seminars.

Economics of Financial Markets

These are the modules that we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £11,750

New international students: £25,850

Tuition fee information

The fees listed are for full-time study, unless otherwise stated. Fee information will be confirmed in offer letters sent out to successful applicants. You can find further information, including information for part-time study, through our dedicated fees and funding page.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government's guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics also offers a number of scholarships.

Careers

Your MSc Development Finance degree will prepare you for work in:

  • development finance institutions
  • financial programmes of development organisations
  • trade and finance for international organisations
  • the financial sector in development contexts.

A wide variety of visiting speakers and field trips means you’ll have many opportunities for networking, while competitive internships, placements, and research dissertations provide opportunities to showcase your skills, undertake field research, or link with organisations in the development sector.

Our graduates

  • Read about Ranjita Neogi, an MSc Development Finance graduate who is now a PhD student and Teaching Associate at Queen Mary University London’s School of Business and Management.
  • Read about Tamara Czetto, an MSc Development Finance graduate who is now a Senior Consultant in Risk Consulting at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Frankfurt, Germany.

Take the next step


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Related Subjects


  • International Development and Applied Economics
  • Agriculture

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