| As
a research group of the Institute of Development Studies (IDS),
the stated objective of the Knowledge,
Technology and Society (KNOTS) team is to explore how
science and technology can improve the livelihoods
and well-being of poor people, and promote greater
social justice. The KNOTS Team works to understand and influence
the institutions and power-knowledge relationships that link
technology, ecology and society. The team connects
global debate with local realities through interdisciplinary
research, networks and partnerships, as well as teaching and
training. Knowledge is crucial in linking rapid health, agriculture
and environmental change to poverty reduction and social justice.
Introducing
the MA
What will
future health and agricultural systems look like? Who will
benefit from genetically modified crops or new vaccines? With
climate change, will there be enough water for people to survive
the twenty-first century? What are the implications of global
pandemics of HIV/AIDS or bird flu? What does a global knowledge
economy and society mean?
Focusing
on such pressing practical and policy questions in
health, environment and agriculture, key
areas for the application of Sustainable Livelihoods,
this programme provides students with a solid grounding to
a number of development concepts and theories, in combination
with an understanding of the politics and governance of scientific
knowledge and policy processes. Through exploring a combination
of theoretical and practical perspectives, the course asks
how science and technology can contribute to poverty
reduction, social justice, environmental and livelihoods sustainability
in the developing world.
Structure
Over
three terms there are four compulsory courses and a series
of shorter options. The lecture-based courses are combined
with tutorial and supervisory support and a series of workshops,
focusing on themes such as research methodology
and professional skills.
At
the end of the course, students will have gained:
- knowledge
of the main theories, concepts and debates in development
situating them in their historical and contemporary contexts;
-
a specialised focus on science, society
and policy interactions, and particularly the political
and governance concerns arising around health, agriculture
and environment;
-
a practical understanding of research and
analytical methodologies and their application in diverse
policy contexts;
-
the ability to engage in critical policy
analysis on science, society and development issues, with
the professional skills required for a diverse range of
career paths in development.
Admission Requirements
A
good honours degree in a social or natural science discipline,
and work experience in development-related work. The minimum
acceptable level of English language competence is grade seven
in each section of the IELTS test (or equivalent).
Funding Details
Two
scholarships are available for applicants from African members
of the Commonwealth through a joint scheme between IDS and
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission. Please contact IDS for
further information. For sources of funding, please see the
University
of Sussex funding advice.
Futher
Details
Details
on the course structure, the options available during the
course and how to apply are available through the course webpage
here.
|
