Bachelor Of Arts - International Development Studies

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies (IDS) at York University is designed for students who aspire to become informed global citizens. This program emphasizes a critical understanding of global issues, particularly those affecting the Global South. Students will explore the historical context of current policies and media narratives, gaining insights into the complexities of international development. The IDS program encourages students to analyze the impact of colonialism, recognize wealth and power disparities among nations, and appreciate the multifaceted factors influencing development. With a strong faculty and ample resources, students will be well-prepared to engage in meaningful discussions with development professionals.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of international development issues. The program length is four years and offers students the flexibility to choose their regional focus, which includes:

• Latin America and the Caribbean
• Africa
• South Asia
• East Asia

Students will also select an area of concentration from the following options:

• Culture, Diasporas and Migration
• Environment, Gender, Political Economy and Politics
• Governance and Policy

Additionally, the program offers unique opportunities such as:

• Internships and study-abroad programs for hands-on experience
• Participation in workshops conducted by faculty and international organizations
• Access to research facilities like the Centre for Research on Latin America and the Caribbean and the Centre for Refugee Studies

Featured Experiences

The International Development Studies program at York University provides students with a variety of unique experiences to enhance their learning:

• International mobilities, including internships and study-abroad programs
• Local and international volunteer positions or work placements
• Workshops conducted by program faculty and through the International Consortium on the Global South
• Access to specialized research facilities, such as the Harriet Tubman Institute and the York Centre for Asian Research
• Collaboration opportunities with the Lassonde School of Engineering for a dual degree in Engineering and Arts

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• International Development Consultant: Advises organizations on strategies to improve development outcomes in various regions.
• Policy Analyst: Researches and analyzes policies affecting international development and provides recommendations for improvement.
• Non-Profit Program Coordinator: Manages programs for non-profit organizations focused on global issues, ensuring effective implementation and outreach.
• Researcher: Conducts studies on international development topics, contributing to academic and policy discussions.
• Advocacy Officer: Works with NGOs to promote awareness and action on global development issues, engaging with stakeholders and the public.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.