Major Concentration in International Development Studies (B.A.) 36 credits
The Major Concentration in International Development Studies explores the complex challenges and opportunities shaping the Global South and the wider developing world. Students examine issues such as socio-economic inequality, governance, peace and conflict, environmental sustainability, and human well-being, while developing strong analytical and research skills to understand and address contemporary development challenges.
Through a combination of required and complementary thematic courses, students engage with the processes, policies, and practices that influence development outcomes at local, national, and global levels.
Possible areas of study include:
- Economic development, livelihoods, and poverty reduction
- Governance, institutions, and development policy
- Inequality, social inclusion, and social justice
- Conflict, security, and peacebuilding
- Environment, natural resource management, and sustainability
- Health, education, and human development
- Migration, displacement, and urbanization
- International development cooperation, aid, and global partnerships
- Cultural, social, and political dimensions of development processes
This interdisciplinary program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand global development issues and contribute to creating more equitable, sustainable, and inclusive societies.
Course Selection Guidelines for the Overall Program
1. At least 18 of the 36 credits must be at the 300 level or above.
2. At least 9 credits must be from INTD courses.
3. Students cannot take more than 12 credits in any one discipline other than the INTD discipline.
- Students who are pursuing a Field Studies program can have a portion of their Field Studies courses count towards their IDS program. See Advisor for details.
- Students interested in Management course options listed in the IDS program, must be aware of the credit limitations in place for Arts students taking courses outside of the Faculties of Arts and Science.
- Some courses listed in our program, namely the MGCR, MGMT, BUSA, ORGB, SWRK have limited spots open for IDS students. See FAQ.
- When selecting their Methods courses, students must consult with the IDS Adviser. They must also consult with the most recent Faculty of Arts policy on course overlap.
- CEGEP students who have been given MATH 203 exemption from their CEGEP CANNOT take SOCI 350, 461, 477, or ECON 227D1/D2 as their Methods option.