Explore key issues and challenges in finance for economic development in developing countries with our MSc Development Finance master’s degree.
Study at one of the UK’s leading universities for environmental and ethical performance (the University of Reading is ranked 4th in the People and Planet University League, 2025/26).
You will examine the key issues in development finance, and conduct analysis of financial markets in emerging economies, financial sector reform, and policies and institutions, to promote financial inclusion.
Entry requirements
Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (high 2:2 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK. Applicants who have relevant career experience are also welcome to apply.
Your undergraduate degree must include a significant element of economics/accounting or finance. Students are advised to take some preliminary economics course before commencing their study.
Students may join immediately after their undergraduate degree, or after some years of employment to enhance career prospects by acquiring further skills.
For a list of requirements by country, please visit our Country-Specific Information page .
Your personal statement
Your personal statement needs to demonstrate that you understand what the course is about, your motivation for studying, and what you would like to get out of your studies. You may reflect on paid or unpaid experience in the field to help support your personal statement.
Please tell us about your interest in development finance issues, and the role of finance in international development.
Language requirements
Applicants may need to provide evidence of their ability to study in English (if required by UK Visa and Immigration). Our online list of English language tests and qualifications is routinely updated, so please check to see if you already have an acceptable qualification or test, and for the most recent changes to language requirements.
If you have any questions about your evidence of English language proficiency, please email pgadmissions@reading.ac.uk .
IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent)
Pre-sessional English language Programme
Our Pre-sessional English Programme is for international students who need to meet their degree programme English language requirements.
Our courses equip you with the skills and language needed for academic success, including critical thinking, self-reflection, learner autonomy, research skills and integrating sources. The Pre-sessional English Programme is accredited by the British Association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes (BALEAP) , which guarantees you will receive a high-quality student experience.
To find out more, visit Pre-sessional English .