Conflict, Security and Development (Taught)

By analysing real-life cases from around the world, with a particular focus on the African continent, this programme explores the connections between conflict, security, and development from an interdisciplinary perspective based in the social science.

Conflicts across the planet have devastating effects on people’s lives, and policymakers are increasingly recognising that conflict and development are interlinked. How can we fully understand these relationships? And how can developing our understanding protect more people from the tragic impact of conflict?

The Conflict, Security and Development MSc programme takes a global view of the topic with a particular emphasis on Africa, drawing on the unique interdisciplinary expertise of the University of Edinburgh’s Centre of African Studies (CAS) which hosts the programme.

The programme focuses on:

• the intersection of conflict, security and development, both conceptually and in practice

• critically exploring the notion that security is a precondition for development and that development leads to security

The programme is rooted in cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural learning, offering opportunities for experiential learning within related sectors, including the option to choose a policy-focused dissertation.

Through links with policymakers and practitioners, you will have opportunities to develop practical skills and relevant experience to prepare for careers in security and development.