Job Description
Position(s): Fully Funded
Organization: University Of Birmingham
Deadline: Monday 12th May 2025
University of Birmingham’s MSc in Development Policy and Politics, supported by a prestigious scholarship that includes a Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship.Offered by the International Development Department (IDD), this competitive and fully funded opportunity equips students with academic excellence, practical experience, and an international platform for policy influence. Applications are open now and will close at midnight on Monday 12th May 2025 — making this the perfect time to take the next step toward an impactful global career.
Why Choose the University of Birmingham for Development Studies?
Located in the heart of the United Kingdom, the University of Birmingham is one of the world’s leading academic institutions, consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally. Its International Development Department is globally respected for cutting-edge research, hands-on teaching, and commitment to inclusive development.
The MSc in Development Policy and Politics is a flagship programme that blends theoretical frameworks with practical tools for real-world policy and governance challenges. Whether your goal is to influence national policy, work with international organisations, or lead innovative projects in the field, this programme offers the academic depth and global perspective to get you there.
What Makes This Scholarship Opportunity Unique?
The University of Birmingham, in collaboration with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, offers one fully funded scholarship for a qualified student to undertake this MSc programme. But this is not just a scholarship — it’s a transformational opportunity that combines education, travel, financial support, and work experience.
Here’s what the scholarship includes:
- ✅ Full tuition fee for the entire MSc programme
- ✈️ Return airfare to and from the United Kingdom and support for the UK visa process
- 💷 Monthly stipend of £1,592 for 18 months, supporting living expenses throughout the study and internship period
- 🎒 Arrival allowance of £1,082 to help you settle into life in the UK
- 🧳 A Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship, offering hands-on experience and exposure to global policy practice
Few academic opportunities offer this level of comprehensive support, and even fewer combine it with a prestigious internship that enhances career opportunities.
About the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation is a globally recognised organisation committed to good governance and leadership in Africa. The Foundation’s internship, included as part of this scholarship, enables the selected scholar to gain real-world experience in one of the most respected institutions focused on African development and governance.
This internship will help students:
- Understand complex policy issues through a governance lens
- Build a professional network with top global experts and institutions
- Develop leadership and analytical skills in a dynamic environment
- Strengthen their credentials for high-level roles in development, policy, or diplomacy
The internship takes place after the academic year, creating a smooth transition from theory to practice.
The MSc in Development Policy and Politics: What You’ll Learn
The programme itself offers a rich curriculum designed to develop future leaders in development. You’ll study:
- Theoretical foundations of development politics and international policy
- Governance, public administration, and institutional reform
- Political economy of development in Africa and other regions
- Applied research methods and policy analysis
A particular strength of this programme is its policy-oriented approach. Students are not only trained to understand development challenges but also equipped to design and implement policy solutions.
HOW TO APPLY
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Who Should Apply?
This scholarship and programme are ideal for students who are:
- Passionate about governance, development, and social change
- Interested in careers in public service, international organisations, or NGOs
- Academically capable and eager to engage in postgraduate research
- Looking for a fully funded study experience with practical exposure
Candidates from Africa are especially encouraged to apply, in keeping with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation’s commitment to nurturing leadership for the continent’s future.
Application Timeline and Requirements
Applications for the 2025–2026 academic year are now open and will close at midnight on Monday 12th May 2025. Early preparation is essential, as this is a competitive process and the scholarship is awarded to only one outstanding candidate.
While the full eligibility criteria and application process can be found on the University of Birmingham’s website, here are a few things to consider:
- Applicants must first apply and be accepted into the MSc programme to be considered for the scholarship.
- A strong academic record, preferably with a background in development, social science, politics, or related fields, is expected.
- Personal statements should clearly demonstrate your commitment to development policy and leadership, particularly in Africa.
- References and supporting documents must be submitted on time.
Living and Studying in Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers an ideal environment for postgraduate students. With a beautiful, historic campus, modern facilities, and a thriving international community, it provides both academic excellence and cultural enrichment.
Birmingham itself is one of the UK’s most diverse cities — known for its vibrant cultural scene, green spaces, and strong African diaspora. For international students, it offers a welcoming environment and easy access to resources, public transportation, and career opportunities.
A Launchpad for Leadership
For the right candidate, this scholarship is not just a chance to earn a degree — it’s a launchpad for leadership in public policy, development governance, and civil society.
Graduates of this programme have gone on to work with:
- The United Nations and its agencies
- National governments across Africa and beyond
- Think tanks and research institutes
- Non-profit and humanitarian organisations
- Regional institutions such as the African Union
The combination of academic training, practical internship, and global exposure provides a unique edge in competitive international fields.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Toward Your Global Impact
Opportunities like this don’t come around often. The University of Birmingham’s MSc in Development Policy and Politics, supported by a fully funded scholarship and a Mo Ibrahim Foundation Internship, is more than a degree — it’s an opportunity to make a difference.
Whether you dream of shaping national policy, working with global institutions, or leading innovative projects in your community, this programme offers the knowledge, experience, and support to help you get there.
Applications close at midnight on Monday 12th May 2025. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a new generation of leaders creating positive change in the world.
