Institute for Development Policy and Management
University of Manchester - Shaping Global Development Leaders Since 1958
Global Excellence in Development Studies
The Institute for Development Policy and Management (IDPM) at the University of Manchester is one of the world's leading centers for research and teaching in international development. With over 60 years of experience, IDPM has trained thousands of development professionals who now work in governments, international organizations, NGOs, and research institutions across the globe.
As part of the Global Development Institute (GDI) - Europe's largest research and teaching institute dedicated to international development - IDPM combines rigorous academic scholarship with practical policy engagement. The institute's work addresses the most pressing challenges facing developing countries, from poverty reduction and sustainable development to governance reform and social justice.
Located in Manchester, one of the UK's most vibrant and diverse cities, IDPM benefits from the University of Manchester's position as a global research powerhouse. The institute's unique approach integrates insights from economics, politics, sociology, anthropology, and management to provide comprehensive understanding of development challenges.
History and Evolution
IDPM was established in 1958 as one of the first institutions dedicated to development administration training. Over the decades, it has evolved to become a comprehensive center for development research and education.
Key Milestones
- • 1958: Founded as Development Administration Group
- • 1987: Became Institute for Development Policy and Management
- • 2004: Merged with Institute for Development Research
- • 2016: Became part of Global Development Institute
- • 2020: Launched new interdisciplinary programs
Research Impact
- • 200+ active research projects
- • Work in over 50 countries
- • £40+ million research funding
- • 100+ academic staff and researchers
- • 5,000+ alumni worldwide
Postgraduate Programs
MSc Development Studies
Comprehensive program examining theories and practices of international development.
- • Development theory and policy
- • Poverty analysis and reduction
- • Gender and development
- • Environmental sustainability
- • Research methods and fieldwork
MSc International Development
Specialized pathways in public policy, governance, environment, and politics.
- • Public Policy and Management
- • Governance and Political Development
- • Environment, Climate Change and Development
- • Globalisation, Trade and Industry
- • Poverty, Inequality and Development
MSc Management and Implementation of Development Projects
Practical skills for managing development interventions and projects.
- • Project planning and design
- • Monitoring and evaluation
- • Financial management
- • Stakeholder engagement
- • Risk assessment and management
PhD Programs
Advanced research degrees with world-class supervision.
- • PhD in Development Policy and Management
- • PhD in Development Studies
- • Professional Doctorate in Development Policy
- • 1+3 ESRC funded pathways
- • Distance learning PhD options
Research Centers and Groups
Research Centers
- • Effective States and Inclusive Development
- • Centre for Digital Development
- • Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute
- • Manchester Urban Institute
- • Brooks World Poverty Institute
Research Themes
- • Politics, governance and public policy
- • Urban development and planning
- • Technology and digital development
- • Climate change and sustainability
- • Conflict, humanitarian response and peace
Global Partnerships and Impact
IDPM maintains extensive partnerships with governments, international organizations, and research institutions worldwide. These collaborations enhance both research impact and student learning opportunities.
International Partners
- • United Nations agencies
- • World Bank
- • DFID/FCDO
- • African Development Bank
- • Oxfam International
Research Networks
- • ESRC research consortia
- • European development networks
- • South-South cooperation platforms
- • Policy research institutes
- • Academic partnerships
Field Locations
- • Sub-Saharan Africa
- • South and Southeast Asia
- • Latin America
- • Middle East
- • Pacific Islands
World-Class Faculty
IDPM's faculty includes leading scholars and practitioners in development studies, many of whom serve as advisors to governments and international organizations.
Academic Excellence
- • 50+ full-time academic staff
- • Authors of influential development texts
- • Regular contributors to policy debates
- • Award-winning researchers
- • Extensive field experience
Areas of Expertise
- • Poverty and inequality analysis
- • Governance and institutions
- • Social protection systems
- • Technology for development
- • Environmental sustainability
Student Life at IDPM
Studying at IDPM offers a unique experience combining rigorous academic training with practical development skills. Our diverse student body represents over 50 countries, creating a truly international learning environment.
Learning Opportunities
- • Small group seminars and workshops
- • Guest lectures by practitioners
- • Field study opportunities
- • Research methods training
- • Policy simulation exercises
Student Activities
- • Development Society events
- • Annual development conference
- • Cultural celebrations
- • Policy debate forums
- • Career networking events
Manchester: The Original Modern City
Manchester offers an ideal location for studying development, combining historic industrial heritage with contemporary urban innovation and cultural diversity.
City Advantages
- • Major international transport hub
- • Diverse multicultural population
- • Thriving arts and culture scene
- • Affordable cost of living
- • Strong job market
Campus Features
- • Purpose-built Arthur Lewis Building
- • State-of-the-art learning facilities
- • Dedicated postgraduate spaces
- • Easy access to main library
- • Central campus location
Quick Facts
Rankings & Recognition
- #1 in UK for Development Studies (QS 2024)
- #5 Globally for Development Studies
- REF 2021: 93% research world-leading
- Queen's Anniversary Prize recipient
- ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership
Application Information
Entry Requirements
2:1 degree or international equivalent
English Language
IELTS 7.0 overall (writing 7.0, others 6.5)
Application Deadlines
Multiple rounds: Dec, Mar, May, July
Tuition Fees 2024/25
UK: £13,000 | International: £26,000
Funding & Scholarships
- Global Development Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- Manchester Alumni Scholarships
- ESRC PhD Studentships
Contact Information
Admissions
Address
Global Development Institute
Arthur Lewis Building
University of Manchester
Oxford Road
Manchester M13 9PL
United Kingdom
Alumni Making Global Impact
Dr. Amina Khatun
MSc Development Studies, 2015
"IDPM gave me the analytical tools to understand complex development challenges. Now leading policy reform at the Bangladesh Planning Commission."
John Mwangi
PhD Development Policy, 2018
"The research training at IDPM was exceptional. My work on digital financial inclusion now influences policy across East Africa."
Maria Rodriguez
MSc International Development, 2020
"The practical skills from project management modules helped me secure a role with UNDP. The global network has been invaluable."
Career Pathways
Where Our Graduates Work
International Organizations
- • United Nations
- • World Bank
- • IMF
- • WHO
- • UNDP
- • UNICEF
Other Sectors
- • Government ministries and agencies
- • International NGOs (Oxfam, Save the Children)
- • Development consultancies
- • Research institutes and think tanks
- • Private sector development initiatives
Career Support Services
IDPM provides comprehensive career support to help students transition into development careers:
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Career Workshops
CV writing, interview skills, and sector-specific guidance
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Networking Events
Regular meetings with alumni and development professionals
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Internship Support
Connections with partner organizations worldwide
Shape the Future of Global Development
Join IDPM and become part of a community dedicated to creating positive change in the world's most challenging contexts.