LSE - MSc Development Studies (Research)

Thank you so much! I know I should be prepared for any negative (albeit deserved and probably correct) criticism that I don't stand a chance, but your positive feedback really gives me hope. So thank you!
Another question to you if you don't mind- do you suggest I take a year off to get more work experience? In regards to the Development Studies (or Development Management field in your case) would I stand a better chance, since my grades aren't that great, if I get some more work abroad experience and maybe apply after one year?

You have quite some relevant experience which should count I think. Yeah it'll take quite some of your time and cost you something as well, but I think it's still worth applying. In case you're unsuccessful you can always apply next year again and if you don't apply now you might keep wondering what if...

Thank you so much! I know I should be prepared for any negative (albeit deserved and probably correct) criticism that I don't stand a chance, but your positive feedback really gives me hope. So thank you!
Another question to you if you don't mind- do you suggest I take a year off to get more work experience? In regards to the Development Studies (or Development Management field in your case) would I stand a better chance, since my grades aren't that great, if I get some more work abroad experience and maybe apply after one year?

I would just apply now - if you don't get in you can still do some relevant work in the meantime and try again next year. You don't really have anything to lose!

I am in my final year of International Development at the University of Vienna (Austria) and will graduate with the equivalent of a British 2:1 in a couple of months. I have been working with NGOs, both internationally and in Austria, which I think was the main reason for the acceptance.
Good luck for you!

Hi! I've spend my morning reading this forum, and it is inspiring really. Topicstarter seems to have an impressive background in development practice. I wish you all the best in applications!

Maybe this is the right place to have a look at my own prospects as well (if not please let me know, this is my first attempt at TSR participation). I am currently finalizing preparations for my oxford mphil in Development Studies application. Furthermore, I am looking at mphils in related fields at cambridge and the research master at LSE (which this topic is actually about). It is good to see that so many of you are aiming for similar programmes - the field needs more brains!

As for where I come from: I have a BA in Economics and Law (grade in anglo GPA would amount to around 3.2, which is 2:2 officially, but is at least top 30% in Utrecht so imo comparable to 2:1) and a MA in International Economics & Business (competitive joint program with Un. Lund, GPA 4.0, cum laude; thesis work published as part of report to an influential dutch government committee), both from Utrecht University. I did a summer internship at a boutique carbon credit developer in Spain and following that worked as a student worker in their Utrecht office during studies.

Currently I am working in Central America as a research consultant in a rural development consultancy (office based in Costa Rica), where I am mainly concerned with quantitative impact analysis of development aid programmes (microfinance, business training etc) incl survey design, the actual field work, data analysis and writing reports. At the start of next academic year, I have worked here over a year.

Although I love my job, I feel that 23 years old is just too young to stop learning in the world of academics. Also, consultancy is about not getting to the very bottom of the story.. we are insecure overcompensators that present too strong conclusions based on weak analysis (thats what we get paid for indeed!). My first choice is the mphil in oxford which combines strong qualitative courses with a bright focus on research methods. I am so looking forward to learn that stuff better!

I realize that for me, these courses are a long shot. Although they're good, my references include just (internationally publishing) associate profs, none of them particularly senior. Furthermore, my english languague quality is not near oxford publication standards. And foremost I worry about my academic background. So maybe I'll end up in a 'normal' PhD at some other continental university (I am fully aware of how bad this sounds ). But, as for now, all suggestions on what to do and estimations of my chances are more than welcome!!

Question: Why is Development Studies (so far from what I've seen) the only taught masters that doesn't explicitly say "2:1" under "Minimum entry requirement". While I'm sure 2.1 is the minimum, how come it doesn't say it...and what is the difference between 2.1 and "Good first degree"? Any thoughts?? So confused!!
http://www2.lse.ac.uk/graduateProspectus2010/taughtProgrammes/MScDevelopmentStudies.aspx

I think for LSE's MSc. Development Management/Development Studies program you're probably a really good candidate. I listened to this podcast (http://www.lse.ac.uk/collections/studentRecruitment/PGOEPodcasts.htm - click on "Development Studies Institute Subject Talk" ) and one of the questions at the end of the talk was something along the lines of "What if I have a 2:2 degree, have a Master's degree, and lots of international experience?" The Professor answered that you may have a good chance to getting in; it will depend on your international experience...or something like that. Listen to the podcast, it will be really helpful in making a decision.
As for your credentials, again, you seem like a pretty good candidate. I don't think I am that impressive compared to a lot of other people who have 2:1's and lots of experience...which is probably why I'm still waiting to hear about my offer. Oh well, I tried! Anyway, you should really just go ahead and apply and see how it turns out. Especially if you got that 4.0 on your first Master's degree, that will stand out. Good luck!

Firstly, it does not mean a First Class degree. 'Good first' degree equates to a 2.1, like the other LSE courses (I would assume) but because development is a varied topic they obviously can have a wider field of applicants. I've been given a conditional offer from LSE (Development Studies) and the requirements are a 2.1.