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DEV40030

Academic Year 2025/2026
Purpose
The purpose of this module is to equip students with a thorough understanding of the complex dynamics that influence economic development in developing countries. By examining the critical challenges and opportunities these economies face, the module aims to foster analytical skills and critical thinking among students, preparing them to effectively address and contribute solutions to real-world economic issues. The course encourages students to explore interdisciplinary approaches and apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, thereby enhancing their readiness for professional roles in international development, economic policy, and related fields.

Overarching Content
- Introduction to Developing Economies: An overview of what defines developing economies, including typical economic characteristics, challenges, and the criteria used to classify these economies.

- Key Development Theories and Models: Exploration of major economic theories and models that explain growth and development, including their applicability and limitations in the context of developing countries.

- Critical Issues Facing Developing Economies:
- Poverty and Inequality: Analysis of the roots and impacts of poverty and inequality, and the policies aimed at mitigating
these issues.
- Economic Policies and Growth Strategies: Examination of various economic policies and strategies such as trade
liberalisation, foreign aid, and direct foreign investment.
- Sustainable Development: Discussion on how developing economies can pursue sustainable growth paths while
addressing environmental concerns and promoting social equity.
- Impact of Globalisation: Consideration of how globalisation affects developing economies, including the challenges and
opportunities it presents.

- Sectoral Analysis:
- Agriculture: The role of agriculture in development, issues of agricultural productivity, and rural development.
- Industry: Industrial policies, the importance of manufacturing, and the challenges of industrialisation.
- Services and Technology: The growing role of the service sector and technology in development, including digital
economies and innovation.
- Governance and Institutional Development: Insight into how governance structures and institutions influence economic
outcomes and development effectiveness.

- Case Studies and Current Examples: Application of concepts through case studies of specific countries or regions, highlighting unique challenges and innovative strategies.

This module offers a comprehensive exploration of developing economies, blending theoretical knowledge with practical insights to provide students with a deep and actionable understanding of the economic, social, and political intricacies that define development trajectories in these regions.

About this Module

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Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours

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Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

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Module Requisites and Incompatibles
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Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered

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Carry forward of passed components
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Terminal Exam

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Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

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