Course information

This module examines one of the central challenges of contemporary development: the persistence and constant transformation of global and local inequalities. It connects these issues to current debates on poverty alleviation, industrialisation and environmental degradation, and the uneven distribution of wealth and opportunity, demonstrating why addressing inequality remains urgent for policymakers, development practitioners and communities.

The module introduces learners to both mainstream and critical development theories, using these to explore competing explanations of poverty and inequality and the policy responses they inspire – from targeted social protection to alternative economic and political models. It investigates how inequalities are produced, reproduced, reduced and transformed, drawing on historical and contemporary drivers at global, national and local scales. Areas of progress, including improvements in health, education and gender equality, are also examined to identify effective strategies for advocacy and action.

Throughout the module, learners will engage with up-to-date research and both quantitative and qualitative evidence on inequality. They will apply theory to case studies, strengthening their capacity to construct evidence-based arguments and to evaluate competing theories, data and policy approaches. The learning experience emphasises active engagement with real-world examples, debate and opportunities for peer feedback, with assessments designed to reflect routine tasks in development practice. By the end of the module, graduates will be equipped to interrogate policy claims, compare and evaluate different strategies to tackle inequality, and participate confidently and constructively in debates on poverty, wealth (re)distribution and social and environmental justice.