You will be encouraged to challenge the common use of Western historical experiences and categories. Instead, you will reconsider the diversity of populations, economies, urban centres, and governance practices in the Global South on their own terms – and in so doing, step outside the conventional lenses of mainstream development theory and the international policies they inform. Your studies will encourage you to examine these realities in light of the contrasts and continuities between the Global North and South and critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of different theoretical approaches to studying international development futures. You will be able to extend your understanding of these topics through an optional field trip to Mumbai or Malaysia. You will also be able to develop your research skills and experiences by undertaking an independent research project and fieldwork. This will be supported by research training as well as one-to-one tailored supervision from experienced researchers. You will have the opportunity to attend regular research seminars and research framework sessions with top-level academic researchers.