This course introduces students to fundamental themes and issues in development studies. The course allows students to explore a range of critical debates and discussions connected to poverty in less prosperous parts of the world, and is divided into three parts. The first part of the course focuses on theories and approaches by examining how the understanding of development has evolved from the colonial period up to contemporary theories of what constitutes a developed society. Part two looks at key actors in the field of development including the state, national development agencies, global financial institutions and civil society organisations. The third part of the course explores a number of key themes in international development, looking at questions around how debt, health and conflict impact on development. In addition to the acquisition of content knowledge, students will develop their academic English skills in the following areas: listening comprehension; notetaking skills; critical thinking, discussion, intensive and extensive reading, summary writing, research, and presentation.