BA offered by the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies
Are you concerned with the discrepancies that exist between developed and developing nations? Do you want to make a difference in the developing world once you graduate? A degree in will allow you to foster this passion by pursuing studies of the complex social issues and developmental challenges facing many contemporary nation states. You will delve into the heart of the theory of development studies as well as the practical and pragmatic approaches of development taken by various world organizations, groups and governments.
Career Options in International Development Studies
Here are just some of the career options related to this major. As all degrees offer transferable skills, some jobs are more closely linked to this field, than others. Check for regional requirements.
- Activist
- Author
- Community Worker
- Consumer Advocate
- Diplomat
- Editor
- Event Coordinator
- Foreign Correspondent
- Foreign Service Officer
- Fundraiser
- Government Administrator
- Health Policy Planner
- Historical Researcher
- Human Rights Advocate
- Immigration Officer
- Institutional Researcher
- International Aid Worker
- International Trade Specialist
- Journalist
- Labour Relations Specialist
- Labour Union Representative
- Lawyer
- Legal Secretary
- Legislative Aid
- Lobbyist
- Media Correspondent
- Mediator
- NGO Director
- Non-profit Administrator
- Policy Researcher
- Politician
- Population Studies Analyst
- Public Affairs Consultant
- Public Policy Analyst
- Speech Writer
- Sustainable Development Consultant
- Translator
- Urban Planner
- Volunteer Coordinator
Some career choices may require further education, such as graduate studies or professional courses and exams. For detailed career descriptions and specific requirements, please check .
Entry-Level Positions in International Development Studies
An undergraduate degree is typically sufficient for these positions, though some locations may require additional qualifications. For region-specific information, please check .
- Advocacy Assistant
- Communications Coordinator
- Community Outreach Worker
- Development Assistant
- Donor Relations Associate
- Field Program Assistant
- Fundraising Coordinator
- Grant Writer
- Humanitarian Aid Worker
- International Program Coordinator
- Junior Policy Analyst
- Monitoring and Evaluation Assistant
- Policy Research Assistant
- Program Assistant
- Project Support Officer
- Public Relations Assistant
- Research Assistant
- Social Media Coordinator
- Volunteer Coordinator
- Youth Engagement Officer
For career descriptions, visit . Some occupations may also be found on ; for login information, navigate to the Career Centre鈥檚 homepage in .
Skills Developed through a Degree in International Development Studies
Core Skills
- An understanding of the issues facing the developing world and the problems governments face in trying to bring modern medicine and technology to impoverished areas
- Knowledge of the functioning of non-profit organizations and international bodies such as the World Bank
- An interdisciplinary comprehension of socioeconomic obstacles faced by different regions around the world
Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills
- The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements and written opinion pieces
- Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
- The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
- The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas
- The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work
Management and Teamwork Skills
- The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project鈥檚 intended and successful end result
- The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
- Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
- The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
Professional Associations
Professional associations offer valuable insights into qualifications, industry trends, and career opportunities. They provide networking events, workshops, mentorship programs, and internships, as well as job boards and career development resources. Additionally, some associations offer professional licensing and regulatory oversight.
- (CASID)
- (IDRC): Funds research and innovation to improve lives in developing countries, emphasizing practical solutions and local expertise.
- (DSA): A UK-based network that connects researchers and practitioners in development studies, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- (IISD): Concentrates on advancing sustainable development through rigorous research and policy advocacy, integrating economic, environmental, and social dimensions.